Presented for dedication to protecting and furthering the rights of people with intellectual and developmental disabilities and their families through legislative service and action.
Senator Craig J. Zucker, District 14, Montgomery County
Senator Craig Zucker has long been a steadfast champion for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities and their families throughout his years of service in the Maryland General Assembly. Through thoughtful leadership, collaboration, and a deep commitment to inclusion, he has consistently worked to advance policies that strengthen opportunities and protections for Marylanders with disabilities.
The Arc Maryland is especially grateful for Senator Zucker’s leadership on SB742, the Maryland Protecting People with Disabilities Act, which helps safeguard the rights of people with disabilities to live, learn, work, and play in their communities with the supports they need. His work on SB507 has also helped ensure that Maryland’s school buildings are accessible, safe, and welcoming environments for students with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
Senator Zucker is widely respected not only for his legislative accomplishments, but for the way he approaches public service — with kindness, creativity, and genuine thoughtfulness. He listens carefully, values collaboration, and remains committed to finding solutions that improve the lives of Marylanders.
For his enduring advocacy, compassionate leadership, and unwavering dedication to inclusion and civil rights, The Arc Maryland is proud to honor Senator Craig Zucker as Legislator of the Year.
Delegate Aaron M. Kaufman, District 18, Montgomery County
Delegate Aaron M. Kaufman has devoted his life to improving the lives of people with disabilities across Maryland. As the first person with cerebral palsy elected to the Maryland House of Delegates, he has become a leading voice for inclusion, accessibility, and disability rights.
This luncheon represents a meaningful homecoming for Delegate Kaufman, who previously served as Public Policy Specialist for The Arc Maryland from 2013 to 2015. Since his election to the House of Delegates, he has championed legislation benefiting people with disabilities across the lifespan.
During this legislative session, Delegate Kaufman worked to ensure Maryland schools are accessible, safe, and welcoming for students with intellectual and developmental disabilities through HB311. He also helped strengthen protections against benefits exploitation and supported enhanced police training for safer interactions with people with IDD through the passage of the LEAD Act, HB634.
Delegate Kaufman dedicates this award to his late brother, Jay, whose life inspired his lifelong advocacy on behalf of people with disabilities. Through his leadership, lived experience, and unwavering commitment to equity, Delegate Kaufman continues to help build a more inclusive Maryland for all.