Seminole resident wins Award of Excellence in Direct Support Services

OKLAHOMA CITY -- Brian Johnson of Seminole was honored at the annual Governor’s Conference on Developmental Disabilities held April 25th and 26 in Norman. Johnson works with a young man who has Down Syndrome, autism and is non-verbal.

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

Division Director James Nicholson says the purpose of the awards is to honor those who support people with developmental disabilities by becoming as independent as possible,” said Nicholson.

“Oklahoma is committed to assisting people with developmental disabilities find competitive jobs and become working taxpayers. 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 the care, skills and attention provided by these professionals.

Johnson was nominated for the award by the young man’s mother, Holli Griggs-Harjo. “Brian has been working with my son since 2007, and with his constant attention, my son has accomplished tasks far beyond what was previously expected. Brian has become part of the family and is just as much an advocate for my son as I am. He sees what is within and knows that within repetition and patience, Taylor will succeed,” said Griggs-Harjo.

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Brian Johnson (right) receives an Award of Excellence in Direct Support Services from James Nicholson, Director, Developmental Disabilities Services Division, Oklahoma Department of Human Services.