Medina Direct Support Professional Named Ohio 2025 DSP of the Year

Photo by James D. DeCamp Photography

Dashawn Davison Honored for Exceptional Professionalism, Compassion, and Commitment to Empowering the People He Serves

The Medina County Board of DD is proud to announce that Dashawn Davison has been awarded the 2025 Direct Support Professional (DSP) of the Year by the Ohio Association of County Boards of DD (OACB). The award recognizes exceptional dedication, integrity, and unwavering commitment to empowering people with developmental differences to be successful in their daily lives.

With 12 years of experience—three as a volunteer and nine as a paid professional—Dashawn has built a career centered on uplifting others and delivering support rooted in respect, consistency, and genuine care. He was chosen for consistently going above and beyond; planning ahead to ensure seamless care, collaborating closely with fellow providers and MCBDD case managers, and most importantly, building a respectful, empowering partnership with the person he serves.

This award recognizes the enthusiasm and creativity he brings when helping those he works with to try new things with confidence, even if they have been challenging in the past. Whether it’s attending community events, exploring new places, or simply enjoying nature, Dashawn ensures everyone is active and engaged. “His calm, encouraging presence has opened the door to meaningful community involvement, new experiences, stronger relationships, and healthier routines,” noted the award nomination. “Whether he’s helping navigate pharmacy changes, preparing meals, supporting emotional regulation, or offering thoughtful solutions and ideas in team meetings, Dashawn first relies on understanding, communication, and heart. He always shows up with compassion and reliability. He is a true advocate for the person he serves.”

As part of that ongoing advocacy, Dashawn plays a vital role in training any new staff who may be needed, helping them understand how to best support people with developmental disabilities so everyone is set up for success. When challenges arise, Dashawn is always the first to reach out for support, ensuring the individual never faces difficulties alone. He is known for creating an environment where the person he helps feels safe, included, understood, and capable. His commitment to creating this trust profoundly shapes the individual’s growth, confidence, and success. Because of Dashawn’s dedication, teamwork, and unwavering belief in the abilities of all people, the people he helps support thrive in new and unexpected ways.

“The Medina County Board of DD is proud that one of Medina’s own has earned this honor,” states Stacey Maleckar, MCBDD Superintendent. “It is truly a testament of the dedication and commitment of Medina County DSPs and the work they do every day to make sure people with developmental differences have the support they need.”