A Legacy Gift That Will Change Careers for Decades: David Blanton’s Transformative Investment in Disability Inclusion

David’s generosity will grow SDI’s endowment, a permanent investment providing long-term financial stability, and support new projects that expand economic opportunities for professionals with disabilities across the region.

A respected civic leader and trusted advisor, David served on Starkloff’s Board of Directors from 2016 to 2023. He brought expertise in finance, public relations, and strategic planning to help guide the organization’s growth, and he championed a vision of workplaces and communities that fully include people with disabilities.

“David didn’t just believe in our mission—he invested in it, through his service and generosity as a board member and now through this remarkable gift,” said Lori Becker, CEO of Starkloff Disability Institute. “This is the kind of gift that changes how many careers we can help launch, not just this year, but for a long time to come. We’re incredibly grateful, and we’re honored to carry his legacy forward.”

The gift arrives at a pivotal moment for Starkloff. The organization is preparing to launch its next major project: the Universal Design Showcase Workplace, a first-of-its-kind headquarters where employers, architects, developers, educators, policymakers, and community members can experience Universal Design in action.
More than a workplace, the new facility will serve as:

• A living laboratory for inclusive design
• A hub for workforce development and employer education
• A community engagement space advancing disability inclusion

The vision positions St. Louis as a national leader in disability inclusion and workplace innovation.

“David’s gift reflects the confidence so many community leaders have in Starkloff’s future,” said Steve Degnan, SDI board chair. “It allows us to think bigger, act more boldly, and build lasting solutions. We hope his example inspires others to join us in creating a region where people with disabilities can thrive as employees, leaders, entrepreneurs, and contributors to our economy.”

Starkloff is drawing increasing national attention for its leadership in inclusive design and shifting attitudes toward disability. This fall, the organization will host its twelfth Starkloff Disability Employment Summit and Universal Design Summit 8, two flagship events that bring together employers, advocates, and innovators from across the country.

People with disabilities remain significantly underrepresented in the American workforce, despite representing one of the largest untapped talent pools in the country. For more than two decades, Starkloff has addressed this gap through disability-led workforce development programs, employer education, and advocacy that creates real pathways to meaningful careers. David’s legacy gift provides a powerful foundation for that work going forward.

In November 2025, Starkloff posthumously honored David with its Pioneer Award, recognizing individuals whose leadership, vision, and generosity embody the legacy of founder Max Starkloff and advance the cause of disability inclusion.

Beyond his professional accomplishments, David was known for his intellectual curiosity, generosity of spirit, and love of adventure. Whether traveling, sailing, skiing, supporting the arts, or engaging in civic life, he approached every endeavor with enthusiasm and a commitment to helping others succeed.

“Legacy gifts are among the most profound expressions of trust a donor can make,” Becker said. “Through this extraordinary act of generosity, David has ensured that his values will continue to open doors and create opportunities for decades to come.”

Starkloff extends its deepest condolences to David’s loved ones, including his dear friend, The Honorable Judge Jean Hamilton, and the entire Blanton family. The organization is immensely grateful for David’s foresight in including SDI in his estate plans and is honored to carry his legacy forward into a more inclusive future for all.

If you’re considering a legacy gift to support disability inclusion in St. Louis, contact our development team to learn how you can help build the next chapter of Starkloff’s mission:

Aimee Wehmeier
Chief Development Officer
(314) 860-3077
awehmeier@starkloff.org

Starkloff Disability Institute is a St. Louis-based nonprofit building inclusion where we live, learn, work, and play so disabled people can thrive. To end exclusion and poverty, we work on both sides of the problem: preparing disabled youth and adults to compete for great careers, and teaching employers and communities to remove the barriers that stand in the way. Learn more at starkloff.org.

Media inquiries:
Maggie Mahoney, Director of Communications
314-860-3074
mmahoney@starkloff.org