Morris County Observes National Disability Employment Awareness Month
Published on October 08, 2025
Commissioners Present Proclamation to Workforce Development Board of Northwest New Jersey
The Morris County Board of County Commissioners proclaimed October 2025 as National Disability Employment Awareness Month today, marking the 80th anniversary of the national observance and the 52nd anniversary of the landmark Rehabilitation Act of 1973.
Commissioner Director Tayfun Selen presented a framed proclamation to Beth Rodgers, executive director of the Workforce Development Board (WDB) of Northwest New Jersey, during the Commissioners’ public meeting in Morristown. The WDB was recognized for its ongoing commitment to help people succeed in the workforce throughout Morris, Sussex and Warren counties.
“This month reminds us to celebrate the many contributions people with disabilities make to our workplaces and communities, and to reaffirm the importance of providing all of our citizens opportunities to succeed,” said Director Selen. “The Rehabilitation Act laid the foundation for the progress we have made. More people with disabilities are joining the workforce and sharing their skills than ever before.”
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the employment rate for people with disabilities reached its highest level in 2024 since data collection began in 2008. Locally, that progress is supported by the WDB of Northwest New Jersey, which provides training, programs and services that connect jobseekers and employers through its network of workforce development partners.
Rodgers thanked the commissioners for their recognition and spoke about the significance of the month.
“National Disability Employment Awareness Month is an important reminder that inclusion strengthens every workplace,” said Rodgers. “We’re grateful for the county commissioners’ continued partnership and for the employers who help make opportunity possible for individuals of all abilities.”
Rodgers also announced that the New Jersey Department of Labor and Workforce Development selected the WDB as the recipient of the 2025 Innovation Award, to be presented Oct. 23 at the Garden State Employment and Training Association Conference. The award recognizes the organization for demonstrating creative strategies and strong leadership in advancing workforce development services and outcomes.
In honor of the 80th anniversary of National Disability Employment Awareness Month, the WDB recently hosted its Employer Recognition Awards to spotlight businesses that champion the employment of people with disabilities. Tiffany & Company’s U.S. Global Distribution Center in Parsippany was among three standout employers across Morris, Sussex and Warren counties, along with honorable mentions including Code Ninjas, Denville Restaurant Village (OMG Burger & Long Valley Brew Pub), Ethan and the Bean in Morristown, and P.G. Chambers School in Hanover Township.
Workforce Development Boards were first established in New Jersey in 1995 to strengthen regional economies and align education, training and employment programs with industry needs. The WDB of Northwest New Jersey continues that mission today. It works with various stakeholders to develop and implement strategies that align education, training and workforce development programs with the demand of the industries in the area.
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Photo 1: (l-r) Morris County Commissioner John Krickus, Deputy Director Stephen Shaw, Commissioner Christine Myers, WDB of Northwest New Jersey Executive Director Beth Rodgers, Commissioner Director Tayfun Selen, Commissioners Douglas Cabana and Deborah Smith. Commissioner Thomas Mastrangelo, who attended the meeting remotely, is depicted on screen behind Commissioner Selen.
Photo 2: Beth Rodgers and Commissioner Director Tayfun Selen.