Outstanding Alumni- Kellie Dean, President & CEO of Dean Transportation
In recognition of his sustained leadership, professional achievement, and commitment to accessibility and inclusion, Kellie Dean is nominated for the RCPD Outstanding Alumni Award. Throughout his career, Kellie has helped create paths of possibility for individuals within communities by increasing access to opportunity which are values that closely align with the mission of the Resource Center for Persons with Disabilities.
As a graduate of Michigan State University’s College of Education, Kellie began his professional career in special education, serving students with disabilities in the Lansing School District. He ensured students had the support needed to thrive and confidently move forward on their own paths.
In his current role as President and CEO of Dean Transportation, Kellie has continued to be a champion of accessibility and community partnership. His leadership extends beyond business success to meaningful community engagement.
Kellie’s connection to RCPD is both visible and impactful. Through Dean Transportation’s role as title sponsor of Alex's Great State Race since its inception in 2014, he has demonstrated sustained commitment to advancing disability awareness, community engagement, and support for RCPD initiatives. His investment has helped bring awareness to, and amplify the message behind, Alex’s Great State Race as well as the MSU RCPD and UM SAAS missions of disability awareness.
Kellie Dean exemplifies what it means to be an outstanding alumnus — a leader who shows dedication to accessibility, advocacy, and creating paths of possibility that make a meaningful impact in the community.
Spartan Disability Access Award-Emma Pinson
Emma Pinson is a sophomore at Michigan State University majoring in Political Science with plans to attend law school and pursue a career in disability rights law. Her advocacy is informed by her personal experience with progressive hearing loss and her commitment to advancing accessibility and inclusion. At MSU, she is an active member of Tower Guard’s Disability Awareness Impact Team and the Council of Students with Disabilities, where she works to promote a more accessible and inclusive campus community.
Alongside her advocacy, Emma is currently gaining legal experience through an internship with the Ingham County Prosecutor’s Office. She has also further enriched her academic experience through the College of Social Science Scholars Program, including a study abroad trip to the United Kingdom. She is dedicated to using both her lived experience and future legal training to help break down barriers and expand opportunities for people with disabilities.
Student Leadership Award- Noah Forman
Noah Forman is a sophomore at Michigan State University, majoring in Economics with a minor in Entrepreneurship and Innovation. A third-generation Spartan from South Florida, he is an Alumni Distinguished Scholarship recipient. Noah serves on the Honors College and College of Social Science Dean’s Advisory Councils, and is in his second year on the President’s Student Advisory Council. He is also a member of the Residential Business Community, the Social Science Scholars, and the Economics Scholars program, in addition to serving as an Advancement Ambassador.
Previously, Noah specialized in chronic illness advocacy, providing on-demand support to patients through his international podcast, which reached listeners in more than 50 countries. His long-term goal is to return to Michigan State University as its President.