Blog Article

National Disability Employment Month

Oct 14, 2024

National Disability Employment Month celebrates and recognizes the invaluable contributions of team members with disabilities. This year’s theme, “Access to Good Jobs for All,” highlights the ongoing commitment to ensuring that all individuals, regardless of ability, have equal opportunities to secure meaningful employment. By promoting inclusive workplaces and advocating for accessible job opportunities, we honor the diverse talents and perspectives that employees with disabilities bring to Davidson.

Barnsley Resort

Ernest Haney

“I don’t think about having a learning disability; I just like working. Even though I can’t read very well or may have problems understanding how to use apps on my phone or remembering passwords, I still have a lot to offer. I learn by “doing” and Barnsley has given me an opportunity to show what I can do and shows appreciation for me and my work; they treat me like family.”

Nobu Eden Roc Miami Beach

Jose Orozco

Jose Orozco shared his journey and current role as a Receiving Clerk in the Purchasing Department at Nobu Eden Roc Miami Beach. Orozco has faced significant challenges with a positive outlook and resilience.

“When I was 14 years old, I suffered a stroke. My right arm was affected with a condition called Muscular Dystonia. This condition caused me to have limited use and involuntary movements of my right arm. I used to be right handed and had to learn to use my left hand. I was born and raised in Barranquilla Colombia where I attended the University of Barranquilla, I graduated as a Dentist in my country. I am grateful for the opportunities and truly enjoy being part of the Davidson Family.”

Jose aims to practice dentistry in the United States, demonstrating his ongoing commitment to his field.

Hyatt Regency Cincinnati

Chris Murphy

“I have never allowed my hearing loss to define me. I am very social and always participated in team sports and other social activities with family and friends. I enjoy the people that I work with, and they have become my friends. I appreciate that my coworkers and supervisors always support me with my hearing loss. All of these things have allowed me to be successful in my job. Thank you to Davidson for asking me to be an advocate for the National Disability Employment Awareness Month.”

Little Rock Mariott

Hunter Crass

“When I was 13, I was diagnosed with Asperger syndrome, at the time it was also conjoined with Autism since the behavioral deficits are almost Identical. It never really impacted me until I became aware of the differences that I lacked compared to other students or people who were around me. If you didn’t know Asperger’s is a form of a behavioral disability I have a hard time processing emotions, and portraying emotions back whether it be body language, facial expressions, or anything in between. I also have a slower mental cognitive function which doesn’t mean I’m slow or underdeveloped it just means it takes longer for me to problem-solve than others.

The reason that I decided to be in the food industry is to prove that someone with Autism/ Asperger’s isn’t a liability or just a label for underdeveloped individuals who have severe diagnoses. High-stress environments are where a lot of people with my disability struggle since it is easy to become emotionally overwhelmed and lash out in a high-stress environment.

I also did it to prove to myself that I could overcome any obstacle that I put my mind to.

I knew I was different, and I strived to show others that I’m just as capable as anyone else when it comes to working in the kitchen and I also just wanted to advocate for others with the success that I have achieved in this field and career.”

The Kimpton Cottonwood Hotel

Kelsey McDaniel

“Some disabilities are invisible. People do not typically look at me and see a disability. At a glance, some may even say “I have it easy”. I have a successful career, a beautiful family, and an outgoing look on life.

The truth is that underneath it all I am fighting every day against my own body. This is typical for anyone living with Multiple Sclerosis.

Every day I fight against chronic pain, muscle spasticity, cognitive struggles, and whatever new symptom this neurological disease throws my way for the day. Years ago, I decided I would refuse to let MS define me and I definitely would not let it slow down my career. Living with Multiple Sclerosis has been difficult, but to my surprise, MS helped me grow as a Human Resource Professional.

The progressive timeline that comes with having MS has truly made me understand the importance of pushing work life balance. My struggles have strengthened my empathy toward all team members because you likely never know the full story. My eyes have been opened to be more understanding because more often than not we are not shown the full picture. I move slower than I did once upon a time, but a steady pace allows me to truly see all the amazing things my team is doing. It may take me longer to get my thoughts organized but it allows me to stop and really listen. Growing in a career with a debilitating disease is not easy.

Sadly, many companies would have found a way to not deal with team members like me because of false perceptions. Davidson Hospitality Group has embraced me for who I am with open arms. Not only has Davidson been patient with my disability but they have allowed me to grow in my career. I was an HR Assistant with Davidson when I was diagnosed and today, I proudly wear the title of Area Director of Human Resources.”