Ms. Wheelchair Wisconsin crown comes to Eau Claire

Sam Clark |

Amber Gilberg (and friend)
Ms. Wheelchair Wisconsin 2013,
Amber Gilberg (and friend)

A UW-Stout graduate and Eau Claire resident was recently crowned Ms. Wheelchair Wisconsin 2013. Amber Gilberg, 31, competed in and won the third-annual pageant on March 16. Gilbert is a freelance graphic designer with a bachelor of fine arts degree from UW-Stout who runs her own business, Beautifully Different. In addition to working, Gilberg is a member of Barrier Busters and Wagner’s Wheels bowling league and also enjoys drawing, dancing, and good Mexican food.

Gilberg’s selection as Ms. Wheelchair Wisconsin 2013 came after a personal interview, a public platform speech delivered by each contestant, and audience questions fielded by specific contestants. Her particular platform concerns establishing more readily available and accessible public transportation for people with disabilities, a quest that resonates deeply with people within her community. As Ms. Wheelchair Wisconsin 2013, Gilberg will take her platform around the state and will continue to be an advocate for people with disabilities.

The next phase for Gilberg is the national Ms. Wheelchair America pageant, scheduled to be held in Houston in 2014. She’s still trying to raise enough money to get there; for inquiries about how you can help or to hear her speak, contact Gilberg at amberlee2@mac.com.