Sapulpa resident wins Award of Excellence in Direct Support Services

OKLAHOMA CITY -- Margaret Thompson was honored at the annual Governor’s Conference on Developmental Disabilities held March 5 and 6 in Norman. Thompson works for BIOS Corporation in Sapulpa. 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.”

Thompson is a job coach and site supervisor for nine employees. She was nominated by Marlene Barger with BIOS who says that Thompson has fostered great attendance, increased morale and inspires each employee to take ownership of their work. “She encourages cross training and now the established workers mentor the newer ones and teach them about their area of the job. This has created mutual respect and environment where everyone is busy, safe and alert,” explained Barger.

###

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