Susan Sygall | University of Portland

Susan Sygall

Susan Sygall, an internationally-recognized expert in the area of international educational exchange, international development and leadership programs for persons with disabilities, is CEO and co-founder of Mobility International USA (MIUSA). MIUSA is a non-profit organization advancing disability rights and leadership globally®. It has over 2300 alumni from over 135 countries, building the pipeline of leaders with disabilities. For over 35 years, Sygall, who is a disability activist, has co-authored numerous publications and lectured throughout the world on a variety of topics related to inclusive international development, women’s leadership, and disability rights. During the course of her career she has focused on issues related to women with disabilities, having spearheaded MIUSA’s signature program, the Women’s Institute on Leadership and Disability (WILD). Through MIUSA, Sygall is working with several organizations and foundations to enhance the inclusion of people with disabilities in their internal and external strategies and programs. Sygall is a MacArthur Fellow, a senior Ashoka Senior Fellow, and a Kellogg Fellow. She is a Rotarian who has received a Rotary Alumni Achievement Award, a member of the International Women’s Forum, and is a Board Member of InterAction. She has also received the President's Award from President Bill Clinton at the White House for her active role throughout our country and the world in empowering people with disabilities.