HDI Spotlight Profile – Page 3

50th Anniversary Spotlight on Lori Norton

Posted on December 3, 2019 | by Beth Potter

There are gonna be tough days but never forget why you are here, what HDI stands for, and never give up when it comes to making a difference in people’s lives!
Lori Norton, Project Director/IPS SE Trainer

How did you come to know HDI?
Working and collaborating with staff (great people) at HDI.
How long have you been at HDI and what is your role?
I started with HDI in 2007 with the Community Work Transition Program. Since 2010, I have been an an IPS Supported Employment Trainer, and then moved in the Project Director/IPS SE Trainer role.
During your time at HDI, of which accomplishments are you most proud?
Implementing a new project in KY, IPS Supported Employment, it really looks at how work is a part of a person’s recovery. Eligibility is based on client choice regardless of past work history, hospitalizations, justice involvement, any job readiness factors. When someone says they want to work, we move forward. I love that it is a strengths based approach, focuses on what people can do, and honors people’s preferences. What I am most proud of is that people are being referred to IPS and not excluded due to job readiness factors. I’ve seen many lives change from going to work!! Work is so much more than just a job! My motto is: A label does not define me or who I am meant to be!!!
What do you think the future holds for HDI?
HDI has a rich history of making real change for people and for systems. I believe HDI will be on the forefront of leading the way to continue to promote the inclusion, independence and contributions of people with disabilities!
What does HDI mean to you?
I believe in and love everything that HDI stands for to promote the inclusion, independence, and contributions of people with disabilities. This is not just a job to me, this is my purpose. I am thankful to be a part of such a great organization that gives me an opportunity to make a real difference in people’s lives every day!!

50th Anniversary Spotlight on David McKay

Posted on December 1, 2019 | by Beth Potter

We’ve consistently improved the quality and quantity of the actionable data reports we provide to clients.
David McKay – Evaluator

How did you come to know HDI?
Chithra Adams called me to interview me for a temporary position. I was caught in her gravitational field and never managed to accelerate to escape velocity.
How long have you been at HDI and what is your role?
I’m coming up on 10 years as an evaluator.
During your time at HDI, of which accomplishments are you most proud?
We’ve grown the evaluation unit from 2 to 9 staff (and growing). We’ve consistently improved the quality and quantity of the actionable data reports we provide to clients.
Do you have any advice that you would like to share with current and future staff members of HDI?
There are some amazing people at HDI; they’re worth getting to know.
What do you think the future holds for HDI?
Evaluators generally hope for the best and expect the worst.
What does HDI mean to you?
Opportunity. Respect. Steady employment.

50th Anniversary Spotlight on Dana Manning

Posted on November 26, 2019 | by Beth Potter

There are many different programs and talents under the HDI umbrella. Talk to people.
Dana Manning – Research Coordinator

How did you come to know HDI?
I started as a STEPS employee.
How long have you been at HDI and what is your role?
9 years as a Research Coordinator and 10 1/2 years as a Data Analyst
During your time at HDI, of which accomplishments are you most proud?
More accurate and efficient data analyses, and improved feedback to the programs that provide our data.
Looking back, can you please share with us a fun or fond moment you had at HDI?
Many open and interesting conversations with coworkers about anything!
What do you think the future holds for HDI?
There are so many outside influences that I could not predict. Flexibility is important – the future is never what you think it’s going to be.
What does HDI mean to you?
I appreciate the trust in my professional judgement, and the space to pursue interests and possibilities.

50th Anniversary Spotlight on Tammy Greene

Posted on November 22, 2019 | by Beth Potter

The Institute will continue to grow and affect positive change in the lives of individuals with disabilities and impact the quality of early childhood education for all children in Kentucky.
Tammy Greene – Early Childhood Specialist

How did you come to know HDI?
I learned about HDI through becoming a credentialed trainer.
How long have you been at HDI and what is your role?
10 1/2 years, Trainer’s Credential, Trainer, Trainers Institute, Professional Development Liaison
During your time at HDI, of which accomplishments are you most proud?
Being part of going paperless, equipping trainers to enhance their skills to support the development of quality trainings for early care and education professionals; building relationships with trainers throughout the state.
Looking back, can you please share with us a fun or fond moment you had at HDI?
My fondest memories revolve around meeting and working with a variety of individuals that have helped me grow in positive ways.
What do you think the future holds for HDI?
The advice that I would give is said best by Fred Rogers, “As human beings, our job in life is to help people realize how rare and valuable each one of us really is, that each of us has something that no one else has- or ever will have- something inside that is unique to all time. It’s our job to encourage each other to discover that uniqueness and to provide ways of developing its expression.” Find ways to do this for yourself, your co-workers, and throughout all areas of your work.

50th Anniversary Spotlight on Maria E. Delgado

Posted on November 20, 2019 | by Beth Potter

“Don’t ever stop trying to make a difference.”
Maria E. Delgado – Accessibility Consultant and Consumer Advisory Council Member

How did you come to know HDI?
Several years ago, I was invited by Dr. Harold Kleinert to do a web accessibility presentation for HDI. After the presentation, I was approached to help review the HDI website for accessibility, as well as to translate many of the available materials into Spanish. Through my work with HDI, I have gained a wealth of knowledge and respect for its mission, so I was honored to receive an invitation to become part of the Consumer Advisory Council.
How long have you been at HDI and what is your role?
I have been involved with HDI since 2014 as an accessibility consultant, a Spanish translator, and a member of the CAC.
During your time at HDI, of which accomplishments are you most proud?
Assisting HDI in making materials and information available to underserved populations.
Looking back, can you please share with us a fun or fond moment you had at HDI?
Every interaction with HDI is meaningful. We share a common goal that truly matters to real people.
What do you think the future holds for HDI?
I believe HDI is paving the way to a more inclusive society, and I already see change compared to previous years. I see a lot of good work for us in the future.