Tommy Nobis Center, an Atlanta-based nonprofit dedicated to helping individuals with disabilities enter or return to employment, hosted its 28^th annual Galaxy of Stars luncheon on Friday, April 24, 2026, at the Cobb Energy Performing Arts Centre.

The event brought together nearly 400 corporate leaders, community supporters, and friends for an inspiring afternoon celebrating the transformative impact of Tommy Nobis Center’s programs, recognizing participant achievements, and raising vital funds to support continued program growth.

This year’s luncheon theme, Aspire: Dare to Dream, set the tone for a meaningful and uplifting program emceed by WSB-TV Anchors Linda Stouffer and Wendy Corona. Attendees heard directly from TNC participants, who shared powerful stories of personal growth and achievement. A highlight of the event was an interview with Karen Slaughter who was the inspiration for the founding vision of Tommy Nobis Center nearly 50 years ago.

“This year’s Galaxy of Stars truly reflected the power of possibility,” said CEO Dave Ward. “When individuals are given the opportunity to aspire and the support to pursue their goals, extraordinary things happen. We are honored to celebrate those achievements and the community that makes them possible.”

During the event, Tommy Nobis Center presented three prestigious awards recognizing individuals who have made outstanding contributions to building inclusive communities and advancing employment opportunities for people with disabilities.

Julia Washington – Tommy Nobis Rising Star Award
Julia Washington, a graduate of The Academy at Tommy Nobis Center, has demonstrated remarkable growth, determination, and independence. Through hands-on training and support, she developed essential workplace skills and secured a position at Whataburger, where she is known for her excellent customer service. Currently pursuing a degree in Early Childhood Education, Julia aspires to work with students with special needs. Her resilience, positive attitude, and commitment to personal growth make her a role model for her peers.

Nicole DeWard – Community Champion Award
Nicole DeWard is a visionary entrepreneur, community builder, and passionate advocate for individuals with disabilities. She has dedicated her life to creating meaningful spaces where people of all abilities can grow in confidence, purpose, and belonging. Inspired by her personal experience as a mother of children with disabilities, she founded bloom work & play, RISE coffee & tea, SHINE health & wellness, and Lighthouse Nutrition. Through her work, Nicole is building spaces where every person has the opportunity to shine their light.

Aarti Sahgal – Lifetime Achievement Award
Aarti Sahgal is the Founder and CEO of Synergies Work, one of the nation’s leading startup hubs dedicated to empowering entrepreneurs with disabilities. Driven by her personal journey as a parent and advocate, she has spent more than a decade building programs that provide training, mentorship, and access to capital. Through initiatives like the Synergies Seed Fund, Aarti is helping close the disability wealth gap and create a more inclusive economy where entrepreneurs with disabilities can succeed.

The event that raised $245,000 to directly support programs and services for people with disabilities was sponsored by Cobb EMC Foundation, WSB-TV, Georgia Power, Publix Super Markets Charities, and the Miller Family Foundation and Rachel & Ben Miller. A recording of the event is available at https://tommynobiscenter.org/galaxy.