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Indiana Special Education Pioneer Passes
Thursday, December 20, 2007

From its beginning in the early 70’s the conception, direction and implementation of an education for all Hoosier children with disabilities was led by a fierce yet diplomatic advocate, Amy Cook-Lurvey. She was there at the beginning of mandatory special education in the early 70's, bringing together all parties under the COVOH banner to bridge the gaps in understanding and funding for this critical endeavor.

Over the years she was the one recognizable leader at the statehouse and with our federal delegation that stood for kids with disabilities. Her impact was shown when in a meeting with Senator Richard Lugar, he asked me, “John what does Amy think about this?” No last name was needed. When you mentioned Amy in business circles, education circles or advocacy circles people knew her and respected her.

Over the last several years with her health failing, she still managed to work the phones when needed and help wherever she could. In the last week before her death, she had called Kim Dodson at The Arc of Indiana to offer help and encouragement with an issue.

Amy will long be remembered by people who sat across the aisle, who sat across the school bargaining tables, and who saw most things differently. She proved, and her legacy remains that our issues are not political but practical and we must work with all to create a better Indiana. Amy will be missed by many, including the thousands of friends she had yet to meet, whose lives were touched by her efforts.