Stephen R. Wise Advocacy Award
The Stephen R. Wise Advocacy Award honors leaders who champion independence and opportunity for individuals with disabilities through meaningful employment.
Stephen R. Wise served in the Florida House of Representatives (1988–2000) and Florida Senate (2002–2012). Wise earned his bachelor’s degree from Florida Southern College, master’s degree from Middle Tennessee State University and doctorate in education from the University of Alabama. His professional experience includes working as a teacher in Polk and Brevard Counties and Vice President of College Development at the Florida Community College. Throughout his career, he focused on the employment of people with disabilities. His legacy includes the creation of the Florida Endowment Foundation for Vocational Rehabilitation, known as The Able Trust.
Since 2013, the Florida Rehabilitation Council has presented this award annually to recognize a Florida leader who exemplifies these values.
2025 Award Recipient - Dr. Jim Murdaugh
Dr. Jim Murdaugh, President of Tallahassee State College (TSC), demonstrates excellence through a clear commitment to empowering students with disabilities to achieve independence and success. Under his direction, TSC has expanded access to higher education, workforce preparation and community participation, ensuring that students with disabilities graduate at higher rates and transition to meaningful careers. His approach combines innovation and compassion, removing barriers and building partnerships and systems of support that create lasting, life-changing outcomes for Floridians with disabilities.
Through strategic investment in career and technical education, Dr. Murdaugh has opened more pathways for students with disabilities to earn industry-recognized credentials, certificates and associate degrees. He has strengthened career services by expanding tailored job coaching, resume support and interview preparation. These enhancements have helped students, including those who are Vocational Rehabilitation consumers, achieve greater independence, confidence and self-sufficiency as they transition into the workforce. By partnering with local employers, he has advanced hands-on learning opportunities, like internships and job-shadowing experiences, improving long-term retention of TSC graduates with disabilities.
Dr. Murdaugh is a champion of community-based initiatives that inspire students with disabilities to explore career interests and prepare for employment. Through TSC’s active role in the Tallahassee Chamber Talent Development Council, the College collaborates with business and education partners to align workforce needs with emerging talent. As a primary sponsor of North Florida Worlds of Work, area high school students, including those with disabilities, are introduced to potential careers at an earlier age. The College also hosts an annual education fair exclusively for High School High Tech students, connecting them to post-secondary programs and hands-on experiences that spark career curiosity.
To learn more about the legacy of this award, view a list of past Wise Award Recipients. To nominate an individual for future consideration, please complete the Wise Award Nomination Form.