It is the time of year when cast members are honored with the Walt Disney Legacy Award (read more about this award here). This award is given to cast members who were nominated by their peers for being inspiring and continuing the legacy of Walt Disney. These cast members continue to “Dream, Create, and Inspire” as they bring the magic daily. This is a very prestigious honor that fewer than 1% of all cast members receive.

In the last few months, cast members have been celebrated and honored with the Walt Disney Legacy Award throughout the Walt Disney World Resort and beyond. As this season of honoring cast members with this award draws to a close, Disney shared a few of the stories from Walt Disney World of the recipients. Check them out here:

Amanda and Mike Ferrara – Merchandise Leader, World of Disney at Disney Springs & Entertainment Leader, Resorts

Amanda and Mike, a married couple working at Walt Disney World, were each honored with the prestigious Legacy Award—completely unaware they had both been selected. Each helped plan the other’s surprise celebration, not realizing they were also being recognized. Their shared moment of discovery turned into a truly magical celebration of their dedication and impact.

Amanda, who joined World of Disney in March, quickly made a lasting impression. Her peers describe her as someone who brightens every location she touches and creates a positive atmosphere for both cast and guests.

Mike, an Entertainment Leader and Traditions facilitator, is admired for his dedication and ability to uplift others through steady guidance and encouragement. Congratulations, Amanda and Mike!

Dr. Natalie Mylniczenko – Veterinarian, Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park

Dr. Natalie, a veterinarian you might recognize from the Disney+ series Magic of Disney’s Animal Kingdom, leads the veterinary care efforts at the Gorilla Rehabilitation and Conservation Education (GRACE) Center in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. Her work supports Disney’s global conservation mission, helping both gorillas and the communities who care for them.

One of her nominators shared: “Her optimism to capacity-build the health program for the gorillas and surrounding communities despite the political challenges in the region is commendable. She works with internal and external resources to provide much-needed equipment and supplies, as well as telemedicine programming.” Congratulations, Dr. Natalie!

Lionel Jeanne– Cultural Representative, France Pavilion, EPCOT

Lionel began his Disney journey at Disneyland Paris, where he impressed leaders and peers with his upbeat attitude. After transferring to Walt Disney World, he continued to make a lasting impression on both guests and cast members.

“It’s a great honor to receive this recognition,” Lionel shared. “Being nominated is incredibly humbling. I’m so grateful to my friends and colleagues.” His award presentation was made even more memorable when his leader from Disneyland Paris joined EPCOT leaders to celebrate him, showcasing the global reach of the Legacy program. Congratulations, Lionel!

Anne – Guest Experience Manager, Merchandise, Disney Water Parks

Anne is recognized for her passion, positivity, and commitment to uplifting others. In just seven years with Disney, she’s become known as a leader who dreams big and cares deeply about her fellow cast members.

One of her peers shared: “She’s got this superpower for making everyone on the team feel supported and valued.” Her creativity, compassion, and dedication to recognition make her a shining example of Walt’s Legacy. Congratulations, Anne!

Congratulations to All Our Legacy Award Recipients

In addition to the outstanding Cast Members featured here, many more were honored with the Walt Disney Legacy Award across Walt Disney World Resort this year. These stories represent just a glimpse into the incredible impact our cast members make every day.

We invite you to explore even more inspiring moments in the carousel below, featuring additional recipients who continue to dream, create, and inspire in their roles and beyond!

As Walt said, “You can dream, create, design and build the most wonderful place in the world, but it takes people to make the dream a reality.” Inspired by his vision, our Legacy Award recipients carry forward a tradition of excellence that touches the hearts of guests and fellow cast alike.