Tulsa resident Karen Portis wins Award of Excellence in Direct Support Services

OKLAHOMA CITY -- Karen Portis was honored at the annual Governor’s Conference on Developmental Disabilities held April 25th and 26 in Norman. Through the Renaissance Management Group in Tulsa, Karen is an agency companion for a young boy she has had in her home for the last five years.

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.

Portis was nominated for the award by Ashley Neel, her supervisor at Renaissance Management Group in Tulsa. “Karen has provided a nurturing and loving environment and her life revolves around this young boy’s high medical needs. Through her persistent care and advocacy, he is now able to walk with assistance and has made great progress in all areas of development,” said Neel.

Portis 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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Karen Portis (left) receives an Award of Excellence in Direct Support Services and the Best-of-the-Best Award from James Nicholson, Director, Developmental Disabilities Services Division, Oklahoma Department of Human Services.