LEGACY OF STEVE ELLIOTT

By Tana Dahlberg, First year MS-SLP graduate student

The University of Wyoming is home to numerous remarkable alumni who have inspiring stories to share. Among them, Paul Lerwick’s life was forever changed when he crossed paths with Steve Elliott. Their friendship, forged in 1970, has left a lasting impact on both of their lives and the lives of countless others.

Paul’s chance meeting with Steve began at the University of Wyoming’s Half Acre, where he noticed Steve struggling with a combination lock on his locker. Paul offered to help Steve. Paul’s simple act of kindness led to an enduring and extraordinary friendship.

Steve Elliott’s journey began in Laramie, where he faced significant challenges from birth. Born with cerebral palsy, Steve navigated life with determination and resilience. He grew up in Laramie with his brother, Roger. Steve’s parents instilled in him a pioneer spirit, firmly believing that his disability should never limit his ambitions. His family taught him to ride a bicycle, fostering his independence and providing him with a means of transportation. Steve enjoyed engaging in activities such as bowling, swimming, singing at his local church, and building meaningful connections with others. He worked alongside his brother, Roger, on a paper route and contributed to landscaping projects on the university campus.

After graduating high school, Steve made his way to the University of Wyoming where he applied himself to classes and part-time jobs. He worked diligently by recording lectures and then transcribing notes after each class. Steve was also a client at the UW Speech & Hearing Clinic, where he formed friendships with the faculty who encouraged him to share his experiences with others. Steve delivered lectures and presentations to various audiences, including high school and college students, the Rotary Club, and the Lions Club.

Following his college years, Steve worked for the US Forest Service in Laramie. His unwavering dedication and strong work ethic earned him respect from his colleagues; he was awarded the USDA Outstanding Handicapped Federal Employee award in 1981. Determined to express his gratitude to the Speech and Hearing Department, Steve established a non-endowed scholarship fund to support students in the Division of Communication Disorders.

Steve maintained a strong friendship with Paul Lerwick and his wife, Judy. When Paul and Judy discovered the scholarship fund Steve had initiated in the 1990s, they felt compelled to contribute. Over the years, their commitment to honoring Steve’s legacy led to the endowment of the Steve Elliott Scholarship in Communication Disorders. The Lerwick’s gifts have often been matched by other donors or matching opportunities. This past spring, the Steve Elliott Scholarship fund received a significant boost from the Lerwicks. This new gift will provide additional scholarships to students and will also support a Steve Elliott UW Speech & Hearing Clinic Graduate Assistant.

Paul and Judy Lerwick believe Steve would be delighted by the impact he continues to have on countless students. They hope that the scholarship inspires recipients to adopt a mindset without limits, mirroring Steve’s optimistic outlook on life. Throughout the year, donors and alumni also contribute to the Steve Elliott Scholarship in Communication Disorders, underscoring the enduring impact of his story and the scholarship.

Steve Elliott exemplified a life lived to the fullest, defying any limitations from cerebral palsy. His steadfast conviction in the power of possibility serves as a message for all to bust through perceived barriers. Steve’s legacy, resolute determination, and indomitable spirit will continue to inspire students and others who learn his story.