Nancy Merrigan, general manager of the Quality Inn in Sequim was honored with an Employer of the Year award by the Washington’s Governor’s Committee on Disability Issues & Employment on Feb. 19.

Merrigan received the honor for her hotel’s diversity and exceptional work environment. She was congratulated personally by Gov. Jay Inslee at a special ceremony in the Governor’s office in Olympia.

Merrigan has developed a long-term partnership with Morningside, a Port Angeles agency that assists adults with disabilities to succeed at their job in the community. One third of the Quality Inn, Sequim’s staff are workers with disabilities.

Bret Wirta, owner of the Sequim Quality Inn, said, “Nancy is committed to recruiting, hiring, and retaining workers with disabilities. Nancy has created an inclusive work environment which her employees say feels like a family.”

“It was an honor receiving this award from Gov. Inslee,” Merrigan said. “I feel so grateful that he recognized our hardworking staff.

“I enjoyed his story he shared about staying at our hotel a few years ago for his wedding anniversary. I told him he needs to come back and visit us again.”