Today, our post is a combination of our Hyatt Friday Photo and Employee Accolades series that we feature here on Keyed Into Hyatt.

We're very proud to introduce all of you to Richard Saab, a prep cook at Grand Hyatt Tampa Bay who was just recognized as Employee of the Year from the magazine "CAREERS & the disABLED." Saab had a blood clot in his spine about 15 years ago that left him paralyzed – but this didn't stop him from living his life. He joined Hands On Education – a program designed to give hope and independence to people with disabilities – and upon graduation from the program in 1999, he started working at Grand Hyatt Tampa Bay.

More than 1,200 students have graduated from the Hands On Education program since it started in 1998. At Grand Hyatt Tampa Bay, students are given 100 hours of culinary experience over a two-week period. All graduating students receive a Certificate of Completion, as well as a Florida Food Handlers Certification.

Saab has served as an inspiration not only to all the associates at Grand Hyatt Tampa Bay, but also to all the students at Hands On Education – encouraging them to keep moving forward despite any challenges that may arise along the way. That's why he has earned the honorable title of Employee of the Year by "CAREERS & the disABLED." Saab flew out to Boston at the end of April to receive his national award – check out the picture of him below alongside Philip Stamm, the general manager of Hyatt Regency Boston where the reception was held.

We want to extend a huge congratulations to Richard Saab, as well as thank him for his dedication and the countless contributions he's made over the years at Grand Hyatt Tampa Bay. We are proud to have you as a member of the Hyatt family!