2025 Legacy Award Recipients Announced at Disney World

Collage of Walt Disney Legacy Award recipients at Disney World Resort.

Published on Oct 09, 2025 by Will

This year, standout cast members across Walt Disney World Resort received the prestigious Walt Disney Legacy Award, the highest honor achievable by cast members. The award celebrates those who Dream, Create, and Inspire, embodying the qualities central to Walt Disney's lasting legacy.

Fewer than 1% of cast, crew, and Imagineers worldwide earn this recognition, with recipients nominated by their peers for not only their work but the positive impact they have on others. From parks to resorts and water parks, the Legacy Award recipients lead with heart and bring out the best in others.

Over the last several months, celebrations took place across the resort. Leaders, teammates, and special guests presented recipients with the iconic blue nametag in heartfelt ceremonies, highlighting the magic cast members bring to Walt Disney World Resort.

Amanda and Mike Ferrara – Merchandise Leader & Entertainment Leader

Amanda and Mike Ferrara, a married couple working at Walt Disney World, each received the Walt Disney Legacy Award without knowing the other was also selected. Each planned the other's surprise celebration, resulting in a magical discovery and celebration of their dedication.

Amanda joined World of Disney in March and was praised for brightening every location she touches, creating a positive atmosphere for cast and guests alike. Mike, an Entertainment Leader and Traditions facilitator, is admired for inspiring others through guidance and encouragement.

Amanda and Mike Ferrara pose with a Disney Legacy Award frame.

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

Dr. Natalie, featured in the Disney+ series Magic of Disney’s Animal Kingdom, leads 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 by aiding gorillas and local communities.

Her nominators commend her optimism and dedication to capacity-building health programs despite political challenges, leveraging internal and external resources to provide necessary equipment, supplies, and telemedicine programming.

Dr. Natalie holds an award in front of a gorilla backdrop.

Lionel Jeanne – Cultural Representative, France Pavilion, EPCOT

Lionel began his Disney career at Disneyland Paris, impressing with his cheerful attitude. After joining Walt Disney World, he continued to positively impact guests and cast members. His award presentation was special as leaders from both Disneyland Paris and EPCOT honored him, showcasing the global nature of the Legacy program.

He expressed humility and gratitude for the nomination and award, recognizing the honor and support from friends and colleagues.

Smiling man in a striped vest holds a framed portrait of Walt Disney.

Anne – Guest Experience Manager, Merchandise, Disney Water Parks

Anne is celebrated for her passion, positivity, and unwavering commitment to supporting and uplifting her fellow cast members. In just seven years, she has become known as a leader who dreams big and deeply cares about her team.

Peers praise her unique ability to make everyone on her team feel valued and supported. Her creativity and dedication to recognition exemplify the spirit of Walt Disney’s legacy.

Woman in a pink shirt smiles and holds an award name tag.

More Inspiring Walt Disney Legacy Award Recipients

Beyond the featured cast members, many others at Walt Disney World Resort received the Walt Disney Legacy Award this year. These stories illustrate the incredible impact cast members have every day through their dedication and spirit.

The carousel below showcases additional recipients who continue to dream, create, and inspire in their roles and beyond.

A smiling woman stands beside a framed award at a ceremony.

Woman in yellow jacket holding Walt Disney Legacy Award certificate.

Man holding a framed award in front of a Disney background.

Three Disney cast members proudly display their Walt Disney Legacy Awards.

Man in green vest stands beside Walt Disney Legacy Award plaque.

Smiling performer in red and white uniform holds award near a piano.

Two people celebrating with an award in a light-filled room.

Cast member smiles while holding an award, balloons in the background.

Cast Members Recieve The Walt Disney Legacy Award

Two women proudly hold framed awards in a bright office setting.

As Walt Disney once 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 this vision, the 2025 Walt Disney Legacy Award recipients continue a tradition of excellence that touches the hearts of guests and fellow cast members alike.

To read more about this, visit the Official Disney Parks Blog post here.
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