Supported Employment That Works: Building Sustainable Pathways to Employment Through Partnership
Wednesday, October 7, 2026
Day 1
Time
11:30 am CDT
Location
Pathways Auditorium
Category
Breakout
Track
Advanced
Format
Hybrid
ceu(s) available
SHRM
About this session
Supported employment creates meaningful pathways to work by connecting people with disabilities to competitive employment and providing the supports they need for long-term success. In this session, attendees will hear how Missouri Vocational Rehabilitation partners with employers, job seekers, and community agencies to support successful employment outcomes. They’ll also learn how Mercy has built and sustained a supported employment model within a large healthcare system. Through a real-world case study, the presenters share lessons learned, strategies for engaging supervisors and teams, and the role ongoing supports play in employee retention and success. Attendees will gain practical guidance on developing partnerships, addressing common barriers, and creating inclusive workplaces where employees can thrive. They’ll leave with actionable ideas and resources to launch or strengthen supported employment opportunities in their own organizations.
presented by
Marisa Hiatt
Director of Experience and Inclusion
Mercy
Marisa Hiatt is the Director of Experience & Inclusion at Mercy, where she leads enterprise strategies focused on disability inclusion, belonging, workforce development, and accessible employment. With more than 15 years of experience in healthcare and human resources, she has developed innovative programs that connect individuals with disabilities to meaningful employment opportunities while advancing inclusive workplace practices. Marisa oversees Mercy's supported employment, pre-employment, and disability inclusion initiatives, helping the organization build sustainable talent pipelines and improve workforce outcomes. She is a national speaker, advocate, and thought leader who regularly collaborates with employers, community organizations, and government partners to advance disability employment and inclusive workplace cultures. Through her work, Mercy has earned national recognition as a leading disability-inclusive employer.
Scott Luhrs
Business Services Representative
Missouri Vocational Rehabilitation
Scott Luhrs is a Business Services Representative with Missouri Vocational Rehabilitation, focused on connecting clients and employers to meaningful employment through a dual-customer approach. He is a certified Workforce Development professional who believes in the power of personal development.
