Tulsa resident wins Award of Excellence in Direct Support Services

OKLAHOMA CITY -- Sharon Dean was honored at the annual Governor's Conference on Developmental Disabilities held April 25 and 26 in Norman. Dean has been a Specialized Foster Care Provider since 2003.

The Oklahoma Department of Human Services (OKDHS) Developmental Disabilities Services Division (DDSD) sponsors the awards to honor outstanding direct care professionals around the state.

Division Director Jim Nicholson says the purpose of the awards is to honor those who support people with developmental disabilities as they strive to become as independent as possible.

"Oklahoma is committed to assisting people with developmental disabilities find competitive jobs and become working taxpayers," said Nicholson. "In fact, we are one of the top two states in integrated employment in the country." Nicholson explained that success for people with developmental disabilities is directly related to care, skills and attention provided by these professionals.

Jacque Pittman, foster care supervisor for the Oklahoma Department of Human Services, nominated Dean for the award. "Sharon has provided children in her home a safe, loving and giving environment - even those who have had significant behavioral issues in the community," said Pittman. "She has dealt with law enforcement, aggressive parents, frustrated child welfare workers, flustered teachers, uneducated community members, and a variety of professionals with patience, professionalism and love."

Dean was also chosen as one of the "Best of the Best" among the award-winners and was featured in a video story which was shown at the ceremony.

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Sharon Dean (right) receives an Award of Excellence in Direct Support Services from Jim Nicholson, Director, Developmental Disabilities Services Division (DDSD), Oklahoma Department of Human Services (OKDHS)