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March 3rd, 2026
Sarah Reifel, instructional designer at Purdue Libraries, has been named the 2026 Focus Award (Staff Category) recipient at Purdue University—a prestigious honor recognizing outstanding contributions to disability accessibility and inclusion.
Presented annually by the Purdue University Office for Civil Rights during Disability Awareness Month, the Focus Awards celebrate individuals who make meaningful, lasting impacts on campus accessibility. Sarah was selected for her extensive and continuing contributions to the Purdue community.
Through her work with Libraries, Sarah has helped strengthen access to information, services, and spaces, ensuring that libraries remain welcoming and usable for all students, faculty, and staff. Her efforts support equitable learning experiences and reflect a deep commitment to inclusion.
Upon receiving the award, Sarah said, “I am very honored to receive the 2026 Focus Award. Bringing awareness to some of the challenges faced by the disability community is a humbling and invaluable experience. Advocating for improved accessibility is such a small way that I can contribute to increasing access to resources, information, and experiences for everyone, and I am happy to be doing so.”
Sarah will be honored at the Disability Awareness Month reception at the Purdue Memorial Union. Her recognition highlights the vital role staff play in shaping an accessible campus and celebrates the everyday efforts that promote inclusivity.
Filed under: general, News and Announcements