HARRIS, N.Y. — Dr. Theresa Hamlin, president and CEO of The Center for Discovery, has been selected as the recipient of the 2026 Walter A. Rhulen Award, an honor recognizing leadership, business excellence, community commitment, and service to humanity.
The award, presented by the Sullivan County Partnership for Economic Development, will be given during the Partnership’s Annual Meeting on October 8 at Resorts World Catskills.
For more than 40 years, Hamlin has led efforts to expand The Center for Discovery’s mission of improving the lives of children and adults with complex conditions through integrated healthcare, education, research, and innovation.
Under her leadership, The Center for Discovery has developed nationally recognized programs focused on whole-person care, including the SynergE6® Healthspan Model, which examines the connections between health, environment, nutrition, and learning.
“This recognition is truly a reflection of our entire Center community,” Hamlin said. “I am deeply honored to accept this award on behalf of our extraordinary staff, our Board of Directors, the individuals and families we are privileged to serve, and the many partners who share our vision.”
Hamlin said the organization’s work has been a collective effort to “redefine what is possible for those with complex disabilities.”
The Center for Discovery is now one of the nation’s leading providers of services for people with complex disabilities and is Sullivan County’s largest employer. The organization operates programs in healthcare, education, agriculture, nutrition, research, and workforce development.
Michael Dubilier, chair of The Center for Discovery’s Board of Directors, said the award recognizes Hamlin’s long-term commitment to the organization’s mission.
“Terry’s leadership has always been centered on the children and adults we serve, and the incredible team that makes our mission possible every day,” Dubilier said.
The Walter A. Rhulen Award is considered one of Sullivan County’s highest honors, recognizing individuals whose professional achievements and community involvement have made a lasting impact on the region.
The Center for Discovery is a nonprofit organization providing education, healthcare, and residential services to more than 1,800 children and adults with complex disabilities, autism spectrum disorders, and medical frailties. Located on a 1,500-acre campus in New York’s Mid-Hudson Region, the organization includes the Children’s Specialty Hospital, therapeutic school campuses, residential programs, and research initiatives.