‘More than a paycheck:’ OPWDD workers honored for service

ALBANY — Twenty-six CSEA members were recently recognized as “Statewide Direct Support Professionals of the Year” by the state Office for People With Developmental Disabilities (OPWDD). 

The members, who work as direct support assistants at OPWDD locations across the state, were honored at a ceremony in Albany. In addition to OPWDD officials and supervisors, attendees included CSEA statewide officers, local officers and union staff. 

“CSEA is proud to join with OPWDD in recognizing these hardworking direct support professional members who give so much of themselves every day to the people they care for,” said CSEA President Mary E. Sullivan. “We all owe them a great debt of gratitude for their dedication and commitment. Congratulations to all the awardees!” 

“I applaud these direct support professionals,” said CSEA Executive Vice President Richard Bebo. “It was an honor to be there and to hear stories of the selfless, hard work that they do every day. Every person truly deserved to be awarded and celebrated.” 

CSEA OPWDD Statewide Labor-Management Committee Chair Faye Wilkie-Fields was also on hand to present certificates on behalf of our union to the honorees. 

OPWDD Commissioner Willow Baer presented certificates of recognition on behalf of the agency. 

“This event recognizes the backbone of the direct support system,” said Baer. “The work you do is challenging, and OPWDD is committed to doing everything we can do to professionalize and elevate the work you do. The people we recognize today represent the highest expression and elevation of our shared mission. I have watched some of you at work, and I am so impressed and grateful for all you do. You are inspiring.” 

Acting Deputy Commissioner, State Operations Salvatore Cerniglia also addressed the honorees. 

“You are mentors and advocates and every day you bridge the gap between challenge and possibility,” said Cerniglia. “Because of you, families rest easier knowing that their loved ones are being taken care of. You set the standard.” 

Before receiving their certificates from OPWDD and CSEA, honorees were introduced by regional OPWDD supervisory staff and immediate supervisors, who shared individual stories about direct support assistants (DSAs) and the unique ways they contribute to the homes they work in and the individuals they care for. 

Wilkie-Fields, a DSA for 36 years and CSEA Brooklyn Developmental Center Local President, reflected on the work and the recognition. 

“This job is about so much more than a paycheck,” said Wilkie-Fields. “DSAs must go beyond the call of duty, frequently act as surrogates and advocates. The reward that comes from the work is not measurable. Yet, still, there is tremendous value as a DSA to know that someone is seeing you, someone is looking and acknowledging the most important part, the humanitarian part.” 

— Therese Assalian 

CSEA OPWDD members honored: