(PHOENIX, Ariz., Dec. 6, 2004) - Phoenix College student, Wendy Huston was a recent nominee for the 2004 Ability Counts Student Award as part of the Mayor's Commission on Disability Issues. The Commission coordinates the annual Ability Counts Student Awards Program which recognizes five outstanding students with disabilities for their personal and academic achievements. Students are evaluated on their demonstration of personal motivation, response to challenges and personal and educational achievements.

Wendy has definitely filled this honorary role. While residing in Show Low, Wendy worked as an aide in a group home for adults with developmental disabilities and was a substitute teacher. She also assisted children with special needs in their homes and taught Special Education.

"Teaching was such a rewarding experience," said Wendy. "I made sure that my students knew they were special. They just had to work a little harder than the other the kids."

Due to various medical conditions, Wendy found herself coming to Phoenix once a week for doctor's visits. She decided to move to Phoenix and once again, pursued her teaching career. Wendy was soon hired as a Special Education teacher in the valley.

Wendy was diagnosed with a vocal cord dysfunction in 1999. The doctors decided to remove her thymus gland and suggested that she limit her talking. Devastated, Wendy was forced to stop teaching. Soon after, she required another surgery. Her sternum did not close properly and Wendy was in severe pain every time she moved. She was soon confined to a wheelchair.

Refusing to give up her independence, Wendy enrolled in Phoenix College in 2001. She is currently pursuing her Associates Degree in Architectural Drafting and a Certificate in Auto Computer Aided Drafting.

This year alone, Wendy has received numerous awards that include the National Dean's List, the United States Achievement Academy of Collegiate All American Scholar Program and the USAA National Collegiate Architecture and Design award.

"I would not have made it this far without my instructors", said Wendy. "They are so accommodating and understanding of my needs. They are a big part of my success."

Wendy also volunteers in the CAD lab. She was asked by her instructor to work as a teacher's aid but the time commitment was too intense for her class schedule and doctor's appointments so she offered to volunteer her services instead.

"I miss teaching so this gives me the chance to interact with people and help them out," said Wendy. "It's fun for me."

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