The Evergreen State Colleges Tammy Van Natta Awarded Outstanding Employer for Project SEARCH

Tammy Van Natta, the Building Services Manager at The Evergreen State College, received the Outstanding Employer award for her exceptional support of students with disabilities through Morningside's Project SEARCH. This award is notable as it marks the first time in 15 years that the college has been recognized for its contributions to disability employment initiatives. Morningside has provided over 50 internships at Evergreen, where students engage in diverse roles across 25 work areas, including dining services and facilities maintenance. The program focuses on personalized support and practical experiences, equipping students with essential skills for future employment. Interns learn time management and customer service, gaining confidence and workplace readiness.

Steve Monroe, a mentor in the program, noted the significant growth he has observed in interns as they discover their strengths. This initiative not only empowers young adults with disabilities but also fosters stronger community connections by preparing them for gainful employment. Morningside has been a vital resource for over 60 years, helping individuals with disabilities gain skills and interests for jobs in the community.