Spencer resident wins Award of Excellence in Direct Support Services

OKLAHOMA CITY -- Stephenie Hull was honored at the annual Governor’s Conference on Developmental Disabilities held March 5 and 6 in Norman. Hull works for Allied Community Services as a Habilitation Training Specialist and Health Care Coordinator. The Oklahoma Department of Human Services (OKDHS) Developmental Disabilities Services Division sponsors the awards to honor outstanding direct care professionals around the state. 

JoAnne Goin, Director, OKDHS Developmental Disabilities Services Division says the purpose of the awards is to honor those who help people with intellectual disabilities integrate into their communities.  

“They work long hours, often at low wages to provide services across many settings," says Goin. "The Direct Support Professionals we honored today have gone the extra mile to serve. They have provided empathic, loving care to meet our highest standards. We honor their commitment and service. They truly represent the Best of the Best in Oklahoma’s system of care for people with intellectual disabilities.”

Hull is a strong advocate for Janie, the woman she supports. She was nominated by DDSD Case Manager Paula Schwartz who says that Hull has organized Janie’s household so that she is able to be very independent and take pride in taking care of her belongings. “Stephenie was instrumental in teaching Janie to advocate for herself and actively supports her participation in People First at the state and city levels,” explained Schwartz.

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Stephenie Hull (left) receives an Award of Excellence in Direct Support Services from JoAnne Goin, Director, Developmental Disabilities Services Division, Oklahoma Department of Human Services.