Distinguished Frank Bowe Award presented to Samuel Simon

Washington, D.C. – Samuel A.  Simon, Chairman of Amplify Public Affairs, is being recognized by Hofstra University with the inaugural Frank Bowe Award in recognition of his efforts to make technology available to all of the public, not just those with disabilities.

The award is being presented by Hofstra University on June 5th at the first National Disability Policy Summit entitled "Disability Leadership: An Agenda for Change" The Summit is co-hosted by United Spinal Association, the Nassau County Office for the Physically Challenged and Hofstra University's School of Education and Allied Human Services.

Mr. Simon and Frank Bowe worked together for more than 20 years fostering greater access to technology by people with disabilities until Frank Bowe's untimely death in August of 2007.  Working together, they helped disability advocates and the telecommunications industry to negotiate and agree upon the language of Section 255 of the Telecommunications Act of 1996.  This section stated that a provider of telecommunications service would ensure that the service is accessible to and usable by individuals with disabilities. This policy improved the access to communications, especially broadband and advanced telecommunication services, for people with disability.

Dr. Frank Bowe was the Dr. Mervin Livingston Schloss Distinguished Professorship for the Study of Disabilities at Hofstra University.  He was once labeled the father of modern American disability policy. He advocated for the rights of people with disabilities with a special interest in access to communications.

"I am humbled and honored to receive this recognition. In truth, Frank was my teacher and mentor, and this award is an acknowledgement of Frank's ability to inspire, teach and change." said Mr. Simon. 

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Amplify is the next generation in public affairs, leading the way in the integration of new media and traditional communications strategies. With unequalled expertise in aligning allies, connecting voices, and promoting action, Amplify serves as a relationship builder, creating and sustaining win-win collaborations to move issues forward and influence targeted audiences. Through the blending of innovative communication technologies, credible coalition building, grassroots and top-tiered public affairs expertise, Amplify leverages connections to achieve targeted objectives in the public, private, and political arenas.