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Mark Hublar receives award for helping people with disabilities reach their potential
The Evening News and The Tribune - 3/18/2024
Mar. 18—NEW ALBANY — New Albany resident and motivational speaker Mark Hublar earned an award recently for his work advocating for those with intellectual and other developmental disabilities.
He earned the Kirles/Byrkett Consumer Advocacy Award from the Indiana chapter of the Association of People Supporting Employment First during its annual conference on March 7 in Muncie.
"It means a lot to me," Hublar said.
Hublar, who has Down Syndrome, is a motivational speaker and works through his business Mark J. Hublar Speaks.
He lives in New Albany, but has traveled across the country for about 15 years speaking on the importance of job opportunities to help people with disabilities reach their full potential. Hublar has held multiple jobs throughout his life.
Hublar is a New Albany High School graduate and graduated from the Jefferson Community Technical College in 2016 in public speaking.
Evidence of his work can be seen in the dozens of other awards Hublar has accumulated through his work. He has spoken to businesses, nonprofits, politicians and schools.
Rep. Ed Clere was one of 11 people who sent a letter to the Indiana advocacy APSE nominating Hublar for the award. He said he has known Hublar for many years and they have worked together on disability issues.
"Mark is an amazing self-advocate," he said.
Clere said Hublar isn't defined by his disability, but uses it as a platform to educate and advocate, and prove that people with disabilities can be successful in a variety of jobs.
"I think his demonstration of employment success is so important," Clere said.
Al Hublar, Mark's father, said APSE works to place individuals with disabilities into good jobs in the marketplace, a goal that goes hand in hand with Mark Hublar's goal.
Clere has worked on disability issues in the legislature for years, including employment for people with disabilities
"I love Mark, and I'm proud to call him a friend," Clere said.
He said Mark Hublar has an infectious personality, is always positive and always looking for ways to make a difference.
"I will continue to help people with disabilities. And that's not gonna stop," Mark said.
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