Kansas honors outstanding direct support workers with 2025 DSW Awards

LAWRENCE — The Kansas Direct Support Workforce Initiative has announced the recipients of the 2025 Direct Support Worker (DSW) Awards, recognizing exceptional Kansans who provide critical, person-centered care and support to individuals with disabilities across the state.

The Kansas Direct Support Workforce Initiative, supported by the University of Kansas and the Kansas Department for Aging and Disability Services, works to strengthen this vital profession through training, recognition and career development resources.

Direct support workers (DSWs) provide essential, person-centered services that help older adults and individuals with disabilities live independently and participate fully in their communities. They assist with daily activities, job and community engagement, communication and personal growth — forming trusted bonds that support both dignity and independence. 

As the need for these services continues to grow, Kansas faces a critical shortage of direct support workers. This high-demand profession is vital to the health and sustainability of home and community-based services, yet often goes unrecognized. The DSW Awards not only honor outstanding individuals in the field but also serve as an opportunity to educate the public about the role these professionals play in supporting inclusive, thriving communities.

The winners were honored during a virtual ceremony featuring remarks from state and community leaders and a keynote address celebrating the essential role of direct support workers in strengthening Kansas’s home and community-based services system.

2025 DSW Award Winners

Everyday Hero Award

For daily acts of kindness, encouragement and extraordinary compassion that change lives.

• Shammi Chand, Wichita
• Taisha Grindstaff, Wichita

Empowerment Award

For helping individuals gain independence, confidence and achieve personal goals.

• Daniele Trent, Lenexa
• Karen Lewis, Manhattan

Community Connector Award

For helping individuals build relationships and engage more deeply in their communities.

• Ashley Van Eaton, Norton
• Nick Toniazzo, Shawnee

Innovation Award

For creativity and out-of-the-box thinking that improves quality of life for those supported.

• Shae Jerome, Hays
• Regina Modanado, Wichita

Champion Award

For advocacy and leadership in advancing the rights and opportunities of people with disabilities.

• LeNena Watson, Mission
• Elizabeth Boresow, Lenexa

Leadership Award

For serving as a role model and uplifting fellow direct support workers through teamwork and positivity.

• Pamela Neeley, Dodge City
• Lois Emerson, Beloit

About the Kansas Direct Support Workforce Initiative

The Kansas Department for Aging and Disability Services (KDADS) partnered with KU and Wichita State University on the Kansas Direct Support Workforce Initiative, which aims to strengthen this profession through training, recognition and career development resources.  KU partners include the School of Social Welfare, Life Span Institute, Institute for Policy & Social Research, KU Medical Center School of Nursing and Kansas Center for Autism Research and Training. The Self Advocate Coalition of Kansas (SACK), United HealthCare, Sunflower Health Plan and Healthy Blue Kansas also contributed to the development of this award, which was launched as part of this initiative to provide public recognition and appreciation for direct support workers.

Learn more at the Kansas Direct Support Workforce website.