SSM Health Treffert Studios and Moraine Park Technical College were recognized by Envision Greater Fond du Lac with the Eden-Schneider Award at its annual meeting on April 25.
The Eden-Schneider Award is for an individual or organization who has embodied the grit, determination, and barrier-busting qualities of the leaders memorialized in its namesakes, Jim Eden of Moraine Park Technical College and Tom Schneider of Silica for Your Home. The honor celebrates the vision that both leaders shared for a business association that could accomplish more together.
“This recognition is not just a celebration of past achievements, but a testament to the limitless potential of collaboration and innovation in shaping a more inclusive and empowering future,” says Katherine Vergos, SSM Health St. Agnes Hospital president. “Our journey began with a shared vision to carry forward the work of Dr. Darold Treffert and create a space where neurodivergent individuals can thrive, where their unique talents are celebrated, and where they are empowered to achieve their dreams. Treffert Studios is the embodiment of this vision – a vibrant hub of creativity, learning, and opportunity.”
The partnership between SSM Health and MPTC started many years ago when MPTC reached out to the SSM Health Treffert Center team to find better serve the needs of a growing neuro-diverse student population. A lot has happened in this short time, according to Bonnie Baerwald, MPTC president.
“Our two organizations are focusing on providing opportunity and experiences, such as having students work together on projects that can be used in each organization,” she says. “We currently extend access to our learning system so Treffert Studios can provide multi-faceted professional development and recruitment across the globe.
“Going forward, we are exploring programming options for Treffert Studios learners to help them to grow and obtain employment skills,” Baerwald adds. “We hope to add program and content to our college curriculum to help prepare Moraine Park learners, young and old, with the skills to better serve the neuro-diverse populations.”
Vergos agrees that the possibilities for collaboration with Moraine Park Technical College are truly limitless. “Together, we can expand access to education and employment opportunities, foster a culture of inclusion and diversity, and empower individuals of all abilities to thrive,” according to Vergos. “I want to extend my deepest gratitude to President Bonnie Baerwald and the entire team at Moraine Park Technical College for their unwavering support and partnership. Your dedication and commitment have been instrumental in our success, and I am excited to see what we can achieve together in the years to come.”
SSM Health Treffert Studios, located at 231 N. National Avenue in Fond du Lac on the MPTC campus, strives to help neurodivergent individuals find their passion and express their talents, giving them a voice and platform to share their strengths with the world. Treffert Studios utilizes The Treffert Approach™️ by helping young adults build off their strengths.
Programs allow neurodivergent individuals to collaborate on creative arts and multimedia projects, thereby developing teamwork and communication skills, building confidence through self-expression, securing gainful employment, and ultimately taking the lead in their own lives.
To learn more, visit treffertstudios.com or call 920-926-8100.
Story Submitted by Shelly Haberman, SSM Health Senior Communications Consultant
Photo caption: Katherine Vergos, SSM Health St. Agnes Hospital president, and Bonnie Baerwald, MPTC president, recently accepted the Eden-Schneider Award from Envision Greater Fond du Lac.