Celebrate Direct Support Professionals

Thank You, Direct Support Professionals!

Let’s celebrate direct support professionals! The Autism Society of North Carolina employs hundreds of direct support professionals. Every day, they work one-on-one with individuals with autism, supporting them in reaching their goals. They become important resources, trusted friends, and honorary members of families. Our direct support professionals are known for going above and beyond!

Every year, we award direct support professionals for their dedication and integrity.

Meet last year’s winners:
2023 Roman Award Winner
2023 McCrimmon Award Winners

We hope you’ll join us and celebrate direct support professionals across our state and take the time to thank those amazing people who work with your family and in your community. If you would like to send a DSP an e-Thank You card please click here.

Hanna White pose for the camera while swinging on the swings.

Want to join our amazing team of DSPs? Submit your resume here.

Below, you’ll meet some of our extraordinary DSPs, with families and supervisors explaining what makes them so special.

Western North Carolina

Becca Martin

“Becca is truly remarkable in every way. She has been sharing her love for special needs children with our family for 17 years….! Becca goes above and beyond in her work with our son on a daily basis. She supports us in teaching our son to be the best he can be, implementing modifications that make his goals achievable. Through her hard work and dedication, Caleb participates in many activities such as a part time job, recreational programs, and various other community events. ”

Kat Murray

“Katharine is such a devoted joy in Paul’s life introducing him to new activities like bowling, new restaurants to eat at to include variety in his choices, at Pack’s Tavern restaurant where he works she talks to Paul’s managers to help them understand Paul more and helps them to figure out ways to reward Paul for his hard work in rolling silverware, and incorporating new choices in his life. Katharine has become part of our family and the big Marlowe Family. She puts a smile on everyone’s face and a true friend and advocate for Paul. She is a blessing to all of us!”

Melissa

“We can’t thank Melissa enough for the joy and compassion she brought to our son and our family. She treats Jace as if he were her own, and continuously advocates for his best interests. She keeps an upbeat and positive outlook, praising the little things while building confidence through every day “adventures”. Melissa made her way to Jace’s heart and into our family, and we are forever grateful for her support!”

Lyon Bergh

“Lyon Bergh is such a delight in Paul’s life at Marlowe Place. Paul so enjoys his walks with Lyon and the calmness he brings to Paul’s life. At Marlowe Place Lyon always has this smile on his face and ready to share little funnies about Paul which I love. Lyon helps to keep Paul’s day structured and helps him thru any changes that can occur with Paul’s day that he is working with him. We all love our Lyon! He is always ready to help with any added shifts if needed which is so appreciated. Lyon knows how much Paul loves balloons and one day at Ingles he was able to get a free balloon after a holiday to get for Paul. Lyon is Paul’s great friend.”

Lelia Harris

“Lelia has been here for 9 years and it shows in her relationship with the Fairview guys. When she pulls in the driveway, SH and SY are usually waiting on her because they’re excited to see her and have fun!”

Nathan Creekmore

“Nathan Creekmore is great with Paul to engage him in different activities at the YMCA. Swimming, racket ball, basketball and using the exercise machines. Paul loves doing this with Nathan because of the fun way Nathan presents the activity to him. Exercise is so important to Paul to help with his anxiety levels. Paul thinks it is cool that Nathan will swim with him. So much thanks to Nathan to keep Paul active when he works with Paul at Marlowe Place.”

Phyllis Walker

“Phyllis Walker dedicates her days to working one-on-one with individuals with autism, helping them reach their goals. She becomes an essential resource, a trusted friend, and an honorary family member to those she supports. Phyllis is known for her exceptional commitment, always going above and beyond in her role as a direct support professional!”

Benita

“Benita works tirelessly every day, supporting individuals with autism to help them achieve their goals. She becomes a vital resource, a trusted friend, and an honorary family member to those she serves. Known for her dedication, Benita consistently goes above and beyond in her role as a direct support professional!”

Savannah Newton

“Savannah Newton is great with Paul. He really likes their time visiting different places from Target to Ingles. She helps him to make good choices of where to go after his work at Pack’s Tavern. Working on his goals of making different choices. Savannah is amazing in helping Paul keep his bed room, bathroom and computer area organized. In fact at Marlowe Place she makes sure the home is very organized and clean when she is on duty. Her skill of organization is so appreciated.”

Brenden Porter

“Brenden Porter is dedicated to working one-on-one with individuals with autism, guiding them towards their goals. He quickly becomes a vital resource, a trusted friend, and an honorary member of the families he supports. Brenden is recognized for consistently going the extra mile, embodying the exceptional commitment that defines our direct support professionals!”

Tatisha Tee

“Tatisha is devoted to working one-on-one with individuals with autism, helping them achieve their personal goals. She quickly becomes an invaluable resource, a trusted friend, and an honorary member of the families she supports. Tatisha is known for her unwavering commitment and always going above and beyond, reflecting the extraordinary dedication of our direct support professionals!”

Zeb Brown

“Zeb Brown is so wonderful in being a great role model for other direct staff. We are thrilled he has returned to Marlowe Place where he has become the new head chief of grilling food on the new gas grill just recently purchased. Paul loves grilled chicken, hamburgers and steak. Paul smiles so big when he tells me “Zeb chicken grill, would you please”. Paul and all are enjoying the new variety of foods grilled on the new outdoor gas grill. Many thanks Zeb for helping Paul being excited about food to eat to keep him healthy.”

Zoe

“Zoe is like a part of our family now. I love how Zoe does with M. She listens and is extremely attentive to her. She is one of the best workers I have ever had. She would give you the shirt off her back. She always takes M out and keeps her busy.”

Triad

Bambi Rollins

“Bambi plays a huge part in helping with ACLE and community activities, as well as supporting her individual to attend. They are our triad social butterflies. Thank you for all you do!”

Cathy

“Cathy has the warmest heart. Her laughter and chatty nature are infectious. She and her individual enjoy so many similar activities together, yet she has helped him with stepping outside of his daily routines such as attending a baseball game and watching fireworks. I look forward to where their adventures take them over the course of the next year.”

Hetty

“Hetty is truly family to the individuals she supports. Whether it is grocery shopping, organizing schoolwork, or going on adventures like the lake or the zoo, she goes above and beyond the definition of respite and has fun doing it! I have loved watching her enhance the lives of others!”

Steven

“Steven is practically family. Whether he’s helping with grocery shopping, organizing schoolwork, or going on fun outings like trips to the lake or zoo, he consistently goes above and beyond—and he enjoys every moment of it! He is truly inspiring.”

Jeff Stevens

“In the candid shot of the duo hard at work, DSP Jeff Stevens guides his client, Alejandro, with stencil and markers to create a DIY Mother’s Day card. Jeff often utilizes materials and structures provided in the Supported Living setting of the activity room in the Bearhollow house that Alejandro shares with his housemates, Bobby & Matt. Jeff is willing and able to provide that personalized instruction within the domestic group dynamic.”

Karen Eppert

“Karen Eppert does a great job of supporting Anisha at her job ay Joy Bar Coffee in High Point. Anisha writes messages on the coffee lids for the customers that read: “Have a nice day” and “Enjoy your coffee.” Karen and Anisha have developed a special bond with each other and enjoy each other’s company.”

Angela Wideman

“Angela has become a vital resource, a trusted friend, and an honorary family member to Bobby. Known for her dedication, Angela goes above and beyond in her role as a direct support professional!.”

Rachel Ramey

“Rachel Ramey and Grayson have become fast friends. When Rachel first started working with Grayson, he was very nervous about having a new person come into his life. They have slowly built a very solid relationship and Grayson trusts Rachel and feels comfortable going out with her in the community. You will often find them out exploring the many local parks with Grayson’s therapy dogs, Finn and Gabby.”

Octavian Hudson

“Octavian has been Aidan’s aide for years. He loves and cares for him like he would his own family member and has developed an intense bond with Aidan, which we are extremely grateful for. Octavian treats Aidan like a friend not a client. His presence has enriched Aidan’s life and ours.”

Michael & Paige

“Grayson pictured with his parents Michael and Paige. Michael and Paige are both also support staff for Grayson and support him in trying new activities and exploring new places. They took a family trip to Hilton Head where Grayson got to go dolphin watching and meet Pluto.”

Karen Pullom

“Karen is a wonderful staff! She is always willing to step in and provide supports when needed. Reliable, dependable, and caring. Her ingenuity is on full display when client challenges are afoot, as her quest for client enrichment is indefatigable.”

Triangle

Micah Dupree

“Micah is an amazing staff. All of the individuals that he serves love him. He has a fun personality and is always down to do the silly tasks. He is always willing to help out in any way that he can. He often takes initiative around the building by cleaning and ensuring that the place is tidy.”

Amina Cebo

“Amina is such a bubbly soul and always matches her clients’ energy during sessions. She transitioned to the clinical team from being a DSP at ASNC and is a natural when it comes to implementing ABA strategies.”

Chloe Andrews

“Chloe transitioned from working at Camp Royale to the clinical team. She is dedicated to helping our clients become the most independent they can be and always implements programming with fidelity.”

Jalen Pettiford

“Jalen is eager to learn and always asks questions to learn more about ABA and program implementation. Jalen jumped right in to implementing new protocols like he had been implementing them with his client for years.”

Madison Coyle

“Madison has been an asset to ASNC and our clients for many years. She understands the art of ABA and develops creative ways to implement teaching opportunities throughout her sessions.”

Logan Joines

“Logan is an amazing educator, and we are so lucky to also have her as part of our clinical team. She is able to build rapport with clients and their families quickly and implements ABA strategies effortlessly.”

Isabel Severa

“Isabel has an infectious energy that her clients are drawn to. She is able to build rapport with her clients quickly and always puts their well-being as priority while providing services.”

Monique Hines

“Monique is an extremely hard worker and has been with ASNC, and her clients, for over 8 years! Her dedication to supporting the guys is admirable and ASNC is lucky to have her!”

Roberta Faulks

“Roberta has dedicated her weekends to supporting her client at ASNC for almost 5 years! She knows all the cool spots in Durham and brings her client on fun outings such as farmers markets and local fairs and events! I can always count on Roberta to show me a cool new spot in the Triangle!”

Reagan Blalock

“Reagan joined Ryan’s team earlier this year and she has been such an amazing addition to his circle of support! She is creative with her ideas and always finds fun and engaging ways to help Ryan work on his goals. From creating themed activities for Ryan’s birthday, to handmade board games to practice conversation skills–she truly thinks outside of the box and Ryan always looks forward to spending time with her!”

Becky Webb

“Becky supports Ryan as his mother, AND as his direct support staff. She is one of the strongest advocates I know, constantly going above and beyond to care for everyone around her and seems to never miss a beat! I am sure she does not hear thank you enough, so THANK YOU! You are amazing, Becky!

Fayetteville

Andrea Miller-Weir

“Andrea has been with the Autism Society of North Carolina for over 23 yrs. She truly cares for the young man she works with and they take trips every two years after saving up. They have gone on many trips and cruises, having experiences that last a lifetime.”

Mary holding a snake at Aloha Safari Park

Mary Beckford

“Mary shows how to be brave while holding a snake at Aloha Safari Park.”

Ebony McCallum

“Not to be outdone by Mary, Ebony also shared demonstrating how to be comfortable in new situations at Aloha Safari Park.”

Heather hanging with her friends at Aloha Safari Park

Heather Hamilton

“Outings help everyone enjoy new experiences. It’s great to be able to see how people react to and enjoy doing new things and visiting different places.”

Diera & Kwamee hanging our at the Aloha Safari Park

Diera Holden

“We love helping people and enabling them to experience the different parts of our community!”

South DSP Team

“We love our team of Fayetteville area DSPs. They improve lives and support families every day. Thank you for all you do!”

Lupin Perry

“Lupin has worked for ASNC for 23 years. Her bonds with the people she works with and serves is unbreakable!”

Tiffaney Pickens

“When we go out we show out! Tiffany loves her bright outfits and we love her.”

Lauren Hines

“Lauren is dedicated to her clients and making sure they live their best lives.”

Greenville

Ashley Phillips

“Ashley, thank you so much for always going above and beyond to be there for your participant. Whether it is jumping into art projects, attending Pitt Community College graduation with your buddy and cheering him on, or showing up on a cold Saturday morning to join him in a 5k – your dedication to your role as a DSP is so greatly appreciated! We wish you the very best on all of your future endeavors and look forward to cheering alongside of you at YOUR graduation day!”

Deja Jackson

“We are so blessed and thankful to have Deja as a part of our Greenville Services Team! She consistently pushes the individuals that you work with to step out of their comfort zone and try new things (such as doggie yoga!). Her sweet, but hilarious, personality brightens our office when she and her participant visit for activities! Deja has made such a positive difference, and we are so thankful for all that she does!”

Shae Duncan Packett & Tyler Hales

“Shae and Tyler are anchors for the individuals that they support. Their consistency and willingness to go above and beyond is second to none! Shae always knows how to bring a smile to all of her buddy’s faces, and her leadership in our office/clubs is recognized by all. So many other staff look up to her! Tyler’s personal connection to this field makes the work he does even more special and meaningful. Thank you for always going the extra mile! Our team would not be successful without Shae andTyler on it!”

Kaitlin Warren

“Kaitlin is part of the “beastmode squad,” during which she runs 5-8 miles with clients on Saturdays and promotes a healthy lifestyle. Kaitlin is very creative when it comes to addressing goals and building meaningful days for the people she supports. The people Kaitlin supports are very attached to her and excited when she’s on the schedule.”

Raymond Henderson

“Raymond is dedicated to working one-on-one with individuals with autism, helping them achieve their personal goals. He quickly becomes an invaluable resource, a trusted friend, and an honorary member of the families he supports. Known for his unwavering commitment, Raymond consistently goes above and beyond, embodying the exceptional dedication of our direct support professionals.”

Tiffany Etheridge

“Tiffany has a remarkable ability to connect with individuals on the autism spectrum, offering compassionate, personalized support to help them achieve their goals. Her presence becomes a vital part of their lives, and she fosters deep trust and strong bonds with both clients and their families. Known for her tireless commitment, Tiffany’s dedication consistently exceeds expectations, exemplifying the heart and passion that make our direct support professionals truly special.”

Laura Brown

“Laura’s dedication shines through in her one-on-one work with individuals on the autism spectrum. She quickly becomes a trusted ally, forming strong connections that deeply impact both the individuals she supports and their families. Laura’s consistent willingness to go the extra mile reflects the passion and commitment that make her an exceptional direct support professional.”

Winterville

Alyssa Futrell

“Alyssa is an incredibly versatile and supportive team member who is always ready to tackle whatever the day brings. Having worked with every age group in Winterville, she demonstrates remarkable flexibility and willingness to step in wherever needed, especially with those last-minute staffing changes. Her infectious laugh and positive attitude make her a joy to be around and uplift everyone she interacts with. Thank you, Alyssa, for your unwavering dedication and cheerful presence!”

Brittany Milan

“Brittany has shown incredible growth in her DSP role and builds meaningful connections with her clients. She works with those who are learning to communicate their wants, needs, and feelings, and she has a unique ability to understand them with calmness and ensure their voices are heard. Whether she’s crawling like a cat during transitions, pulling wagons, giving tickles, or refilling cookie containers, Brittany always goes above and beyond to ensure her clients have the best day at camp. Her dedication and creativity truly enhance their experience!”

Carly Sapper

“Carly is super outgoing and bubbly. When she started at Fairview, she made sure to get super involved with her clients and getting to know the staff. We are so glad she joined our team!”

Erin Beasley

“Erin is the epitome of calm, patience, and compassion! Whether she’s engaging in imaginative play as princesses, exploring the outdoors, tossing foam blocks in the sensory room, or creating art, Erin always listens to her clients’ needs and meets them with a warm smile. Even on days when her client is tired from school and needs some downtime, Erin finds a way to make it enjoyable and engaging. Her caring heart and creative approach make a significant impact every day!”

James Cassano

“Since joining our team, James has consistently gone above and beyond. His dedication, flexibility, and leadership have been invaluable assets. James is always ready to tackle any task, from taking out the trash, waiting for the last client to leave to ensure everyone gets to their cars safely, to participating in our camp games, dressing up for events, or coming in early to help prep daily activities. His efforts have made a significant impact on our team, and we are incredibly grateful for all he does!”

Savannah Barnes

“Savannah is a true “do-it-all” DSP who excels in every role she takes on. Whether she’s driving the van route to four schools, supporting clients with high needs, leading activities at Camp Royall, or simply brightening everyone’s day with her positive outlook, Savannah is always up for the challenge. Each day, she arrives ready to handle whatever comes her way and makes a meaningful impact on her clients while doing so. Her dedication and upbeat attitude are truly inspiring!”

Wilmington

Nikki Dinkins

“Nikki has built a close relationship with her 1:1 and works with us to create systems and make changes. She is always the first to offer help in any way she can!”

Nyah Roberts

“Nyah is a Program Lead who plans activities for programming and works hard to incorporate everyone’s interest into activities. She works hard to make sure we have a fun and exiting time here at camp!”

Morgan Rhoad

“Morgan can get in depth and detailed with some important topics and interests that her clients have. Asking questions to get to know the participants is a huge strength while trying to learn something new every day.”

Kaleigh Gwyn

“Kaleigh is a great team member. She recently attended her client’s dance recital.”

Kari Githmark

“Kari is a bubbly and outgoing counselor with a big heart. She can jump from any group and run with it. She does so well at communicating and spending the quality time with our participants that make them feel so special.”

Kaitlyn Johnson

“Kaitlyn is such a sweet soul who gravitates towards those youngers. She jumps into their play, loves pushing them on the hammocks, and doing crafts with them. She always comes with such a bright smile on her face and is excited to work with any client!”

Kristen Edwards

“Kristen is the best at supporting the silly! She strives to make sure everyone has a fun time at camp and is always looking out for some funny jokes.”

Calyn McMullen

“Calyn is a great worker and team member. She recently celebrated her client Emma’s high school graduation!”

Cynthia Gray

“Cynthia is very attentive to her clients needs and builds great connections with participants and encourages group interactions and support.”

Faith Comstock

“Faith recently started with us for summer camp and immediately jumped in and started building meaningful relationships. Her group looks forward to seeing her during the week!”

Caitlyn Dunn

“Caiti came back for summer camp and has jumped right in. Caiti thrives on teamwork and collaboration with her coworkers. She is great at making sure her group is supported and her clients stay happy and having fun!”

Tiffany Sunderland

“Tiffany has worked with ASNC for a while and has a huge heart for all of her participants. They know she is reliable and can offer a fun experience. She thrives to learn more and loves to coach new staff coming in!”

Camille Fannin

“Camille has such a nurturing heart and is such a good listening ear for our clients. She is amazing at building relationships with all who she works with.”

Mia Chung

“Mia thrives on building relationships with each and every client. She is amazing at sharing her skills with other staff and supporting wherever needed. She also brings in great ABA knowledge with her schooling to support our clients!”

Katherine Miller

“Katherine actively engages her clients. In this picture she’s teaching A how to communicate what he wants, which is more spins!”

Rachael Reyna

“Rachael has been with ASNC for 4 years now and is driven to learn about any and every client that she comes across. The clients Racheal works with now ask for her daily! She also has taken input from clients to stream line activities since becoming our Activity Lead!”

Sam Phelps

“Sam is a passionate staff who likes to work with a variety of participants. She fills in when needed for those that need extra support and does well building relationships.”

Sydney Schreiner

“Sydney is great at facilitating conversations and building tight nit friendships with her participants. She engages in play and has great ideas to modify activities for all needs.”

Caleb Risley

“Caleb has started with us this year and jumped right in. He enjoys working keep busy and working with those that he can learn so much from. He gives us great insight into his 1:1 with the way he communicates via his actions or short phrases!”

Aaron King

“Aaron is one that will get active with those boys! Always playing basketball, kickball, and any other high energy activities! He has also built a close relationship with his 1:1 and is always giving us input on how to support him best!”

Samantha Lambrecht-Stein

“Sammy has been a great friend and support to her participants. She has enjoyed working with clients that need more support with group interactions and relationship building.”

Nick Dmytriw

“We teach skills that help in real life. Shopping and how to pay for things are one task Nick and Calen work together on.”

Kenn Franceschini

“Kenn has worked with us for over 4 years and never hesitates to lend a helping hand to any client or staff. He is a great role model for our participants and a great communicator to our families. He does well getting to know families and spending that extra time talking about their child’s day”

Simone Williams

“Simone has done a wonderful job this summer bonding with an awesome participant. She cares so much, and it shows with every person she works with in Social Recreation!”