The Florida Development Disabilities Council (FDDC) honored two individuals with advocacy awards last week in Tallahassee. Krystal Sims from St. Lucie County received the Idelio Valdes Leadership and Advocacy Award, and Stephanie Nordin received the inaugural Bobbie Lake Family Member Leadership and Advocacy Award. These awards were presented during the FDDC’s annual Developmental Disabilities Day (DD Day) dinner on March 10, 2025.
About the Idelio Valdes Leadership and Advocacy Award
Krystal Sims received the 16th Annual Idelio Valdes Leadership and Advocacy Award – the state’s top honor recognizing an individual with a developmental disability. The award is presented each year by the Florida Developmental Disabilities Council (FDDC) to a self-advocate who has demonstrated advocacy activities in keeping with the spirit of Idelio Valdes an advocate who embraced his community and worked with groups while encouraging others to do so by example.
Krystal Sims is a passionate leader in Florida’s developmental disability advocacy community. She has held key leadership roles, serving as President and Vice President of Stand Up for Independence (SUFI) and Secretary of Florida Self-Advocates Network’D (FL SAND). Through her advocacy, Krystal has successfully championed initiatives for improved transportation services and additional funding to support individuals with developmental disabilities.
A graduate of Partners in Policymaking, Krystal is committed to making her voice heard. She frequently engages with lawmakers. She has participated in panel discussions with local law enforcement to promote disability awareness and inclusion.
In her community, Krystal is an active participant in the Special Olympics for Okeechobee and Martin counties and takes part in the Publix-sponsored Torch Run. She also supports SUFI’s fundraising efforts, including their Annual Tea Party.
Known for her warmth, dedication, and advocacy, Krystal continues to make a meaningful impact in Martin, St. Lucie, and Okeechobee counties. She is a proud advocate, a devoted member of her church, and a loving family member, inspiring those around her with her determination and positivity.
Senator Gayle Harrell (R-Stuart, Florida Senate District 31) presented the award to Krystal during the FDDC’s annual Developmental Disabilities (DD Day) dinner in Tallahassee.
About the Bobbie Lake Family Member Leadership and Advocacy Award
Stephanie Nordin was the recipient of the inaugural Bobbie Lake Family Member Leadership and Advocacy Award which was presented for her outstanding leadership and advocacy on behalf of individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
The Bobbie Lake Family Member Leadership and Advocacy Award was created in honor of family member, Bobbie Lake, who had a tremendous impact on Florida’s disability community through his advocacy and leadership. This inaugural award will be facilitated by FDDC each year, starting in 2025, and awarded annually during Developmental Disabilities (DD) Day.
Stephanie Nordin, founder and executive director of the Autism Collier Resource Center (ACRC) was the first recipient of this ward. She is a passionate advocate and nonprofit leader committed to improving the lives of individuals with developmental disabilities and their families in Florida. As a mother of four, including twin sons with autism, Stephanie’s advocacy is driven by her personal experience and the gaps she identified in services following a traumatic family event.
Under her leadership, ACRC has expanded critical services for families navigating autism, offering wraparound support, parent education, and community partnerships. She also founded the Autism Collier Charter School, a state-approved school providing individualized education for students with autism and significant cognitive disabilities.
Stephanie’s policy work includes championing Florida Senate Bill 1758, which improved service accessibility for families, and serving on numerous advocacy boards, including the Parent Exceptional Education Resource Subcommittee. Her leadership has resulted in expanded services, disability-inclusive programming, and new educational opportunities for individuals with developmental disabilities.
Recognized for her transformative work, Stephanie has been awarded the 2025 Bobbie Lake Family Member Leadership and Advocacy Award for her ongoing impact in advancing inclusion and accessibility for individuals with developmental disabilities.
Representative Lauren Melo (R-Naples, Florida House District 82) presented the award to Stephanie during the FDDC’s annual Developmental Disabilities (DD Day) dinner in Tallahassee.