ANCOR, the leading voice in Washington for community-based disability services providers, has announced that Minnesota-based Dungarvin has seven recipients in this year’s DSP of the Year award. The Dungarvin winners join a total of 54 honorees in the 2025 edition of ANCOR’s annual Direct Support Professional of the Year Awards program. This year’s awards garnered over 500 nominations from across the nation, a record-breaking total.
This afternoon, Chief People Officer Han Hoppe was given a sterling send-off surrounded by laughs and many well wishes. Hoppe is retiring after almost four years with the organization, a time in which he helped transform the Human Resources department to better recruit talent across the United States as the company continues to grow. Speeches were given by Karin Stockwell, Central Regional Director, Tim Madden, Dungarvin Founder as well as Lori Kress, Chief Executive Officer.
At Dungarvin, we respect and respond to the choices of those in need of our supports. That means that individuals come to us for all kinds of reasons, and needing different kinds of support, like the journey of 35-year-old Georgio. Georgio is a family man and a beacon of strength and resilience to many. Georgio has a sense of humor that can light up the darkest room, and a unique ability to turn challenges into moments of joy. Living with ASD (Autism Spectrum Disorder), Georgio has faced many hurdles throughout his life. Yet through every struggle, he demonstrates what it means to be resilient.
“Dungarvin has given me the ability to learn and grow, as they have provided me many opportunities within the organization. With this, I’ve had the pleasure to watch and be a part of the lives of many individuals we serve. I’ve seen the positive impact supported environments provide for our individuals to lead a fulfilling life.”
“Over the past thirty years, I’ve done a lot of things for employment. When I arrived here, I just knew that I would be able to actually HELP people, and that is exactly what has kept me here for 30 years! I needed a place like Dungarvin. It is my second home. I respect and greatly appreciate what Dungarvin stands for and what opportunities they provide so many families and the special and unique people we serve every day.”
5 questions with Justine Clark, Talent Development Specialist
“I enjoy the variety of tasks and responsibilities, from leading teams and managing office needs to overseeing the Administrative Department and Local Help Desk. It’s fulfilling to collaborate with different departments, apply my problem-solving skills, and contribute to a positive and efficient work environment. Hearing how my team and I have made a positive impact is incredibly rewarding, as it reinforces that our efforts play a key role in the organization’s success.”
Each year, the Dungarvin Ohio team puts in the hours to honor a very special hero. Peggy Porter was a Dungarvin Direct Support Professional (DSP) who made the ultimate sacrifice for the men in her home when a fire broke out in 2006. She had a special relationship with these individuals she supported, John C. and Tony B., but on December 20, 2006, the fire sadly claimed the lives of Peggy and Tony. This was a very traumatic experience for those who were at Dungarvin at this time and has been a sad part of Dungarvin Ohio’s history. Because Peggy always gave it her all, the Ohio team gives back through volunteering to honor her sacrifice.
“I feel passionate, connected and committed to what I’m doing every day, serving people in need of supports is part of my life. I appreciate all of you for being a part of this remarkable journey.”
ADS – Advanced Development Seminar – is a long-standing valued component of Dungarvin’s leadership development program. The seminar was initially developed by Frank Madden, a VP of HR for International Milling (later International Multifoods). Understanding the importance of leadership development, Frank and a licensed psychologist facilitated 3-day seminars for six Dungarvin directors selected from across the country twice each year. Over time, the facilitators changed, including different psychologists as well as Dungarvin leaders – notably Cathy Rathburn, Jan Carver, Dave Toeniskoetter and Michaela Madden Smith. With Dave’s retirement in 2023 and the growing number of Dungarvin directors who could benefit (acquisitions accelerating the numbers), we decided to rescale this program.
