LEWISTON – The dining services operation at Bates College has received a statewide award honoring commitment to the employment of people with disabilities.

At an Oct. 30 symposium in Freeport, Working Together, a partnership of Maine businesses striving to advance the employment of people with disabilities, presented Bates with the annual Workforce Achievement Award.

Christine Schwartz, dining services director, accepted the award for Bates.

Also known as the “Just Do It” award, the Workforce Achievement Award recognizes Maine businesses that are especially dedicated to and effective in the cause.

Amie Parker, a human resources manager at Bates, credits Schwartz’s commitment to hiring employees with disabilities.