2025 Stand Out Champion Awards Announced
The Medina County Board of Developmental Disabilities (MCBDD) is proud to announce the recipients of the 2025 Stand Out Champion Awards: Melanie Kasten-Krause, Trent Fumich and Nicole Moehring. This award recognizes people in our community who have demonstrated exceptional advocacy and commitment to the developmental disability field in Medina County. This year’s recipients have shown a dedication and passion to touching the lives of people with disabilities, and the MCBDD is proud to recognize their contributions.
Melanie Kasten-Krause
With over four decades of service, Melanie Kasten-Krause has been a steadfast advocate for individuals with developmental differences. As the former Executive Director of The Society, she played a pivotal role in transforming the organization into a cornerstone of support for individuals and families in Medina County. Her dedication extends beyond her professional role; she also serves on the board of directors for the Medina County Mental Health and Recovery Board, collaborating on initiatives that integrate mental health and developmental disabilities. Despite her recent retirement, Melanie remains a passionate voice for inclusion and continues to inspire others to advocate for a more inclusive community.
Trent Fumich
Diagnosed with autism, Trent Fumich has turned his personal experiences into a platform for advocacy. His book, Autism Does Not Have Limits, offers an authentic look into the life of a high school student recently diagnosed with autism. Through his writing, Trent emphasizes that individuals with developmental differences are capable of achieving their goals. His determination and creativity serve as an inspiration to others, proving that a diagnosis does not define one’s potential.
Nicole Moehring
Nicole Moehring’s advocacy is deeply personal. After her son Evan, who has Fragile X Syndrome and autism, was denied justice following a sexual abuse case, Nicole founded Voices of Change in 2018. This nonprofit educates, advocates for, and empowers people with disabilities. Through her writing and activism, including the book Evan’s Voice, Nicole strives to create a more educated, inclusive, and just world. Her efforts have led to her involvement in the Advisory Board for the Ohio Attorney General Committee for Crime Victims with Disabilities and the development of Evan and Gillian Says, an educational series aimed at reducing the risk of abuse for children with developmental and intellectual differences.
“Medina County has many great champions for people with developmental differences,” states Stacey Maleckar, MCBDD Superintendent. “Melanie, Trent, and Nicole exemplify the spirit of the Stand Out Champion Awards. Their unwavering dedication and advocacy have profoundly impacted people within our community and helped break down the barriers they encounter, and we are honored to recognize their contributions, and passion.”
For information on the Stand Out Champion Awards, please click here.