Announcing the 2026 Lifeworks Award Winners

At Lifeworks, we believe that true inclusion happens when people with disabilities are valued, empowered, and supported in every aspect of life – from employment to community building to policy change. That’s why, at this year’s Annual Celebration, we are proud to present two awards that recognize outstanding leaders in disability inclusion: 

• The Jim Wolford Community Impact Award
• The Employer of the Year Award 

These awards highlight individuals and organizations that are making Minnesota a more accessible, equitable, and inclusive place for people with disabilities. 

Jim Wolford Community Impact Award: Leah Henrikson 

As Director of Human Resources at Securian Financial Group, Leah Henrikson champions equitable hiring practices and cultivates a workplace where all employees can thrive. As a co-leader of disability inclusion through an employee resource group at Securian, she helps advance awareness, belonging, and access across the organization. Leah has guided and coached a number of Lifeworks clients, creating opportunities for them to navigate and pursue meaningful employment. 

Beyond her corporate role, Leah is a steadfast advocate for disability rights and early childhood health. Motivated by her daughter’s diagnosis with congenital CMV, she led the grassroots effort behind Minnesota’s Vivian Act – making the state the first in the nation to adopt universal newborn CMV screening.   

In 2025, Leah further deepened her commitment to the Lifeworks mission by joining the Board of Directors. Leah exemplifies the spirit of this award, named in honor of Jim Wolford, late business leader and philanthropist who called on us all to cherish people and build communities where everyone is valued. 

Employer of the Year: Allianz Life Insurance Company of North America 

For 17 years, Allianz Life Insurance Company of North America has been a dedicated employer of people with disabilities, demonstrating a longstanding commitment to providing meaningful, competitive, and integrated employment opportunities for people with disabilities supported by Lifeworks. By offering a range of roles and maintaining a strong commitment to equitable wages and inclusive practices, Allianz Life reflects the belief that people with disabilities are valuable contributors across all areas of the workplace. 

In recent years, Allianz Life has further strengthened its commitment to disability inclusion by fostering a culture of awareness and advocacy within its organization. Through employee engagement efforts and participation in community conversations, Allianz Life continues to elevate the importance of inclusive hiring practices and encourage others to do the same. Their support extends beyond the workplace through ongoing volunteerism, philanthropic contributions, and partnership with Lifeworks programs that advance inclusion across the community. 

Join Us to Celebrate These Remarkable Leaders 

These winners are shaping a future where disability inclusion isn’t just an initiative – it’s the standard. Join us at the Annual Celebration to honor their impact, connect with the Lifeworks community, and be inspired by the incredible work happening in Minnesota. 

2026 Lifeworks Annual Celebration 
Thursday, April 30 
Minneapolis Events Center