Part 2: Close-Up Spotlights Evelyn Stypula

Physically disabled individuals face challenges far beyond the comprehension of those without disabilities. Many aspects of life can be affected by various disabilities. From accessibility to transportation, public perception to opportunity: for over 50 years, advocate Evelyn Stypula has provided a voice for people with disabilities.

Through determination and positivity, Evelyn has assisted in the enhancement of the lives of many people with disabilities. As a child, Evelyn suffered an illness, which led to her becoming an amputee. Never one to sit back and wallow, Evelyn met her obstacles head on and chose to rise above.

“I chose to fight because I felt that if I didn’t do it, people behind me may not have spoken up to get these opportunities to get things done,” exclaims Stypula.

Reflecting on her father’s advice Evelyn says, “My father always encouraged me in my life and influenced me to believe that there was always a way to achieve goals.”

Evelyn has served as an agent of change every step of the way with every place she has been. Even while furthering her education, which includes an Elementary Education degree and a Special Education from Edinboro University, and a Master’s degree in Education of Rehabilitation Counseling from the University of Pittsburgh,Evelyn worked with local officials to enhance the accessibility of the locations.

For years Evelyn has worked with a variety of groups, councils, and legislators as Evelyn’s extensive experience in advocacy includes serving on the Board of Directors for United Cerebral Palsy, consulting for Penna Gov’s Conference for Women, board member for TRCIL Services and Chair of the Governor’s Advisory Committee for People with Disabilities.