Recognizing Leadership, Advocacy, and Heart

The spirit of leadership, inclusion, and community was celebrated this week as two extraordinary individuals were recognized for their tireless efforts to create a more equitable New Hampshire. Tim Houle has been named the recipient of the Annie Forts Award, while Carrie Duran has been honored with the Brianna Dillon Leadership Medal.

Named in memory of Annie Forts—a NH Leadership Series graduate with an intellectual disability who served three terms on President Bill Clinton’s Committee on People with Intellectual Disabilities—the Annie Forts Award honors individuals who exemplify leadership and advocacy for people with disabilities. This year, that honor goes to Tim Houle.

Tim Houle is presented with the Annie Forts Award at the Institute on Disability's 2025 Annual Celebration Ceremoney. 

Tim is widely known not only for his leadership but also for his warm and welcoming presence at every event—from conferences to community gatherings. A member of the New Hampshire Council on Developmental Disabilities, Tim uses his lived experience and passion to champion equity and systemic change. He is a core contributor to the With Foundation project, led by Principal Investigator Andrea Caoili, where his insight has helped shape strategies to make health systems more inclusive. His work has been instrumental in updating a prescriber’s guide and enhancing civic engagement training—ensuring that individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities are represented in both planning and implementation.

“Tim is a tireless advocate, a talented researcher, and a generous colleague,” said Sarah Sadowski, NH Leadership Series Project Director. “He shows up, he works hard, and he leads with heart. We are deeply grateful for all he does.”

Also celebrated was Carrie Duran, the 2025 recipient of the Brianna Dillon Leadership Medal. This annual honor is presented to an individual who has shown creative leadership and commitment to the full participation of all people in the educational, political, and cultural life of New Hampshire.

Carrie Duran is presented with the Brianna Dillon Leadership Medal at the Institute on Disability's 2025 Annual Celebration Ceremony.

 

Carrie’s impact over the past decade has been nothing short of extraordinary. A 2015 graduate of the same leadership class as Tim, Carrie has led efforts in inclusive early education, Medicaid access, and affordable housing. Most recently, she and her daughter Katie traveled to Washington, D.C., to advocate at the federal level with the National Down Syndrome Society.

As Legislative Liaison at Lakes Region Community Services and a member of the Policy Committee of the NH Council on Developmental Disabilities, Carrie ensures community voices are heard by policymakers. Alongside her colleague Karen Blake, Carrie also serves as a mentor and trainer, helping new leaders find their voices and transform bold ideas into real action.

“Carrie leads with heart, purpose, and unwavering dedication,” said Sarah Sadowski. “She helps others believe in the value of their stories—and the power they hold to create change.”

Past Recipients of the Brianna Dillon Leadership Medal:

• 2011 Maggie Hassan
• 2012 Cathy Spinney
• 2013 Don Moore
• 2014 Robin Carlson
• 2015 Beth Dixon
• 2016 Bonnie Dunham
• 2017 Freda Smith
• 2018 Kathy Bates
• 2019 Ann Dillon
• 2020 Melissa Heinbauch
• 2021 Therese Willkomm
• 2022 Regan Burke
• 2023 Alicia Buono
• 2024 Deb Genthner

We celebrate Tim Houle and Carrie Duran for their deep commitment to advocacy, leadership, and building a more inclusive future. Their work continues to inspire communities across the Granite State and beyond.