The Maryland state government recently recognized the transformational work of direct support professionals (DSP) during an awards ceremony for Outstanding Direct Support Professionals. We’re thrilled to share that Jubilee’s Olufemi (Femi) Okunlola won an Outstanding DSP Award. Out of hundreds of nominations, 33 direct support professionals were awarded. The award was jointly presented by the Maryland Department of Disabilities and the Maryland Department of Health Developmental Disabilities Administration at a ceremony on Monday, October 6, 2025.

Femi was joined at the ceremony by his Jubilee colleagues and Mark Springuel, who he supports to live independently. Femi was nominated for this award by Jubilee for his work with Mark. Jubilee program manager Mary Amoji-Ogar says that Femi’s “kindness, patience, team spirit, professionalism, consistency, and hard work” deserved recognition. “Our Jubilee family and Mark’s family are full of gratitude to Femi for the way he genuinely cares for Mark. Femi always keeps up with Mark’s energy!”

Mark’s Dad Renny Springuel says “Femi makes sure that Mark stays active and that he has fun in all the activities I used to take Mark to. Femi takes the lead in finding activities for Mark. Femi also participates in many of the activities, and this has allowed both Mark and Femi to develop a true friendship. I’m very comfortable with and appreciative of the support my son gets from Femi.”

In addition to the statewide award, Femi is Jubilee’s October Shining Star employee and winner of the InterACC/DD organization’s Outstanding DSP Award during September’s National DSP Recognition Week.