Heather Steele Named Direct Support Professional of the Year
Boundaries & Beyond is proud to share that Program Director Heather Steele received the Direct Support Professional of the Year award from the Care Providers Association of Oregon (CPAO) at its 2026 conference, Charting New Waters.
The award recognizes the care, commitment, and advocacy that direct support professionals bring to their work. Heather’s leadership reflects those values in her work to make relationship and sexuality education more accessible, affirming, and meaningful for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
Heather was nominated by Carrie Dickson, CPAO Board Treasurer. Carrie highlighted Heather’s patience and compassion, and her ability to meet each student’s individual needs. She also noted that Heather creates “a warm and nonjudgmental environment that is essential to learning such sensitive topics.”.
That welcoming environment helps students feel respected and supported as they learn about communication, consent, boundaries, relationships, and safety. At Boundaries & Beyond, Heather brings a trauma-informed, person-centered approach to the program and its partnerships. She is committed to ensuring people have access to education that honors their autonomy, dignity, and right to make informed choices.
Boundaries & Beyond thanks CPAO for recognizing Heather and the important work of direct support professionals across Oregon. We also celebrate the students, families, support providers, and community partners who make this work possible.
Congratulations, Heather!
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