2023 Global Golisano Health Leadership Award Recipient from Germany: Dr. Imke Kaschke

Dr. Imke Kaschke, the Special Olympics Regional Clinical Advisor for Special Smiles in Europe, is a prominent inclusive health advocate in Germany. Having established free health screenings for athletes with intellectual disabilities in all 16 German states, she has also made significant contributions at Berlin's Charité hospital, where she managed dental consultations for people with intellectual disabilities. Dr. Kaschke trains physicians and dentists to care properly for patients with intellectual disabilities, promotes inclusive university curricula, and fosters collaborative partnerships between Special Olympics Germany and 12 national professional associations. Through her efforts, she has secured funding and driven policy changes, ensuring people with intellectual disabilities now receive more accessible and comprehensive dental care.