(Washington, D.C.)–Congressman Jim Langevin today announced that the Association of University Centers on Disabilities (AUCD) has awarded one of his Washington, D.C., Legislative Assistants, Amy Judge, with the Association’s 2004 Gold Star Award for her efforts on behalf of disabled Americans.

 “I am so proud of Amy for this testament to her hard work and dedicated efforts on behalf of Rhode Islanders and all Americans who live with some form of a disability,” said Congressman Jim Langevin. “Far too often, the efforts of the many staffers working on Capitol Hill are overlooked. This is such a wonderful opportunity to recognize Amy and my entire staff for their dedicated efforts to help me proudly represent the people of Rhode Island.”

According to the AUCD, the Gold Star Award program was established in 2002 and is presented to a Capitol Hill staffer who exemplifies a true partnership in crafting strong public policy and implementing programs for and with people with disabilities and their families.

Judge has been recognized for her work in promoting proposals such as the Assistive Technology Act and Langevin’s Respite Care bill. Her work with Congressman Langevin on the Bipartisan Disabilities Caucus was also lauded.

The Association of University Centers on Disabilities is a 501(c) non-profit organization that promotes and supports the national network of university centers on disabilities, which includes University Centers for Excellence in Developmental Disabilities Education, Research, and Service (UCEDD), Leadership Education in Neurodevelopmental and Related Disabilities (LEND) Programs and Developmental Disabilities Research Centers (DDRC).

-30-