JUVENILE COURT HONORED AS  EMPLOYER OF THE YEAR 

The National Multiple Sclerosis Society honored the Summit County Juvenile Court with the Employer of the Year Award. The award was presented to Judge Linda Tucci Teodosio at the Society’s Annual Meeting and Volunteer Workshop on December 1 at the Conference Center at NorthPointe in Lewis Center, Ohio. 

The award is given to an employer who has gone the extra mile to meet the needs of people with disabilities, specifically multiple sclerosis. The results of these efforts may be continued employment for an individual with a disability or greater understanding among co-workers for the needs of disabled employees. 

Intake Officer Katie Herman nominated the Court for this award. Herman has lived with multiple sclerosis since 1998 and while she has dealt with the symptoms of her disease, she said she has never had to worry about losing her job. 

She credited Judge Teodosio for allowing her to change jobs so she could continue to work. Herman said she was also allowed to work a flexible schedule and take time off work as needed for doctor’s appointments. 

“It is challenging enough to be a working mother and wife,” said Judge Teodosio. “To have to confront the issues Katie does on daily basis is testament to her spirit.” 

Katie was at the awards ceremony with her husband, Mike, and 3-year old daughter Kendall to see Judge Teodosio accept the award. 

“We commend the efforts of the Summit County Juvenile Court,” said Janet Kramer, President of the Ohio Buckeye Chapter of the National MS Society. “They have made accommodations to keep a person with a disability employed by providing support and understanding over the years.”