Posted 2/27/2026
We’re shining a spotlight on Merakey team members who have taken on new challenges to improve their skill sets and widen their knowledge through NADSP certifications. NADSP (The National Alliance for Direct Support Professionals) works to strengthen DSPs (direct support professionals) by raising practice standards, driving system improvements, and providing training, professional development, and accreditation.
As of February 27, 2026, 92 Merakey colleagues have completed the DSP Certification, and 21 have completed the Front-Line Supervisor Certification. “Congratulations to our colleagues who have earned their NADSP certifications,” said Senior VP of IDD Lynn Kovich. “Your commitment to growing your skills and strengthening our services is truly commendable, and we are grateful for the excellence you bring to Merakey every day.”
Click here for a complete list of Merakey DSPs who are certified.
Here’s what Merakey team members have said about their experience with the certification process:
"I really enjoyed getting my certification through the E-badge Academy. I realized that I was able to learn more about my job and how to take care of the clients.”
- Debra Degenring
"I was very excited at the opportunity to complete the NADSP DSP I Certification. When I started the process, I thought it was going to be very hard for me to complete, but as I earned each badge, it helped me reflect on how many individuals and staff I help and advocate for every day. I recently became a Program Lead and saw it as an opportunity to set an example for my staff, as well as an opportunity to model the NADSP Code of Ethics as a new supervisor. I look forward to earning my DSP II Certification when I am able. This certification makes me proud to tell people that I work for Merakey because we are truly doing what is best for the whole organization.” - Aliana Hahs
“Participating in the program helped me to gain a deeper personal understanding and reflection as a Direct Care Specialist, as we are the primary support system in the daily lives of the individuals that we serve.” - Mary Cavender
“I am proud to have my NADSP Certification because it validates my experience I’ve gained from working with people who live with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities. In this field, hands-on learning from our individuals is the best way to get to know them and their needs. It’s not something that can be taught from a textbook – and it’s encouraging to know that the skills I have earned on the job are recognized and valued on a national level. The Direct Support Professionals I work alongside are adaptive, intuitive, and most of all dedicated to the residents – we couldn’t do it without them!” - Mackenzie Kohr
“I have used the principles and tenets of NADSP to inform my analysis into a more comprehensive approach that improves my ability to empathize in situations big and small. This serves to make a big difference in the quality and effectiveness of my abilities as a DSP and the success our residents and I can achieve together.” - Gregory Daub
IDD Philadelphia proudly recognized their 2025 NADSP Certified Direct Support Professionals and Front-Line Supervisors with a celebratory luncheon and Merakey swag. This recognition highlights their dedication to professional excellence and their continued commitment to providing high quality, person-centered supports. We are grateful for their hard work, passion, and the positive impact they make each day within the Merakey Community.
Staff who are interested in obtaining certification, may contact IDD leadership to learn more about this exciting program
