Joyce Bender
Joyce A. Bender is a visionary leader, advocate, and CEO dedicated to empowering individuals with disabilities. As the founder of Bender Consulting Services, Inc., she has spent over two decades breaking down barriers in the workforce, helping companies across the United States and Canada implement inclusive hiring practices that open doors for people with disabilities. Her journey began with her own personal experience, surviving a life-threatening accident in 1985 that left her with epilepsy and partial hearing loss. Determined to turn adversity into advocacy, Joyce established Bender Consulting in 1995 to champion employment opportunities and create pathways for those often marginalized in the workplace. In addition to her consulting work, Joyce launched the Bender Leadership Academy, a nonprofit organization focused on equipping youth with disabilities with essential career skills. She hosts the "Disability Matters" podcast, where she explores critical issues impacting the disability community. Recognized internationally, Joyce has represented the U.S. State Department in multiple countries, sharing her expertise on disability employment. Her legacy of inclusion has earned her numerous awards, solidifying her role as a leader in disability advocacy.
