Laura Stout

Network Compliance Contract Operations Director
Blue Cross Blue Shield of MA

PASSION:

Laura is passionate about disability advocacy. She works tirelessly to remove barriers to employment for those with disabilities, raise awareness about the issues they face in the workplace, and foster inclusion for all individuals.

 

IMPACT:

Laura is a leader in disability advocacy, both professionally and in the community. She has been a key member, Executive Advisory Council Member, and annual conference host for Work without Limits, a network of employers, educational institutions, and employment service providers, whose goal it is to increase the employment of people with disabilities in Massachusetts. Since the group’s inception in 2009, Laura has used her energy and passion to help the group grow from a fledgling organization to a national organization with a network of more than 40 businesses. Laura also cofounded and leads the Blue Cross disability inclusion-focused Employee Resource Group – Empowering Abilities. As president, Laura has been instrumental in implementing disability awareness training across the company, ensuring buildings are safe and accessible, and spearheading disability inclusion events throughout the year.

Laura was recently honored with an appointment by Gov. Charlie Baker to the Advisory Board of the Massachusetts Commission Against Discrimination, providing advice and guidance to the governor and the commission. Finally, Laura also mentors young adults who are part of Little People of America and volunteers every year at Camp Victory, a camp for children who experience chronic health problems or catastrophic illness, or who are physically or mentally disabled.