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Leaders Program

Investing in Leaders with Spinal Cord Injury

woman in her wheelchair at a park with her service dog
man in a wheelchair with sunglasses and a beard a top of a mountain

Program Details

The BACKBONES Leaders Program empowers adults with spinal cord injury and disability (SCI/D) develop the skills to become leaders in any field and strengthen their communities. Each year, ten motivated participants from across the country are selected for this program. The group meets online to check-in, learn from leaders with disabilities, and engage in workshops on topics like public speaking, advocacy, self-care, networking, conflict resolution, disability identity, and more. Participants receive $1,000 for professional development and professional headshots to boost their confidence and support their goals.​​ -- READ PROGRAM REPORT HERE

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Applications Open Fall 2026​

​​For questions contact Monica Quimby mquimby@backbonesonline.org

Leaders Program Participants 2025-26

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Alexander Cano

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Ben Iammartino

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Analiese Fazio

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Angeline Hamele

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Desmeon Thomas

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Myron Wright

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Stephanie Judge

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Zelene Sanchez

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Lori Jankowski

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Justina Plowden

"I built new relationships with people in the SCI community that will last long after the completion of the program. I'm forever grateful for what they have added to my life."
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