The Arc Baltimore Honors Jordan, Kalu for Career Excellence in Direct Support

Shnika Jordan and Ngozi Kalu have been honored as the winners of The Arc Baltimore’s 2025 Award for Career Excellence in Direct Support.

Presented during The Arc Baltimore’s recent Catalyst for Change Awards Ceremony, the Excellence in Direct Support Award recognizes a direct support professional who demonstrates general excellence in job performance, with a focus on technical knowledge of developmental disabilities and training techniques, reliability, good relationships with the people supported by The Arc Baltimore and co-workers, and dedication to advocacy and community partnerships.

“Shnika Jordan exemplifies excellence as a Direct Support Professional at The Arc’s Homeland Day Services location through teamwork, professionalism, and a deep commitment to person-centered care,” says Kathleen McNally Durkin, The Arc Baltimore’s Chief Executive Officer. “She consistently supports colleagues, communicates effectively, and models agency values.”

As a participant in the NADSP credentialing program, Jordan actively applies new knowledge to improve outcomes and shares insights with her team. Her dedication, growth mindset, and commitment to best practices elevate both her team and the quality of services provided.

Ngozi Kalu, meanwhile, has more than 15 years of dedicated service, during which she has built strong, trusting relationships with the three ladies she supports at their homes and with their families, consistently delivering thoughtful, person-centered support.

“A dependable and collaborative team member, Ngozi empowers the people she supports to explore their interests, make informed choices, and grow in independence through creative and meaningful support,” Durkin notes. “Her calm, steady presence strengthens her team and enhances the lives of those she supports, making her a true example of excellence in direct support.”

The Catalyst for Change Awards program enables The Arc Baltimore to recognize those individuals who have gone that extra mile in their commitment and service to the organization and those people with developmental disabilities who are recipients of The Arc’s programs and services.

The awards ceremony was preceded by The Arc Baltimore’s Annual Meeting, which included election of the Board officers and directors.

Since 1949, The Arc Baltimore has supported people with developmental disabilities to lead fulfilling lives with a sense of belonging, purpose, and meaningful relationships. The Arc’s vision is a world where all people are valued, their voices are heard, and their impact is felt. With more than 700 full- and part-time employees, The Arc Baltimore provides employment training and support, day and residential services, family support and education, treatment foster care, assistive technology services, respite care, and public policy advocacy.

For more information, visit www.thearcbaltimore.org, email contactus@thearcbaltimore.org, or call 410-296-2272.