Team Spotlight: Stephanie Mote

1. In what ways does your role help support the work of NASDDDS members?

As Senior Project Manager, I help coordinate projects, meetings, and activities that support state DD agencies across the country. A significant part of my work focuses on supporting The Link Center, a Project of National Significance that provides training, resources, and a robust online library to help improve services for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities who also experience mental health challenges. Another focus of my work is the National Community of Practice for Supporting Families (CoP), helping states apply the CoP’s family-driven framework and values to policies and systems that better support families of people with IDD.  I also work behind the scenes to keep other projects moving forward and ensure members have a smooth and productive experience engaging with NASDDDS.

2. What does a typical day look like for you as a member of the NASDDDS team?

Just like my fellow colleagues, I find that there really is no “typical” day. On any given day, I might be facilitating a discussion with state leaders, maintaining The Link Center website, meeting with partners and colleagues across the country, or coordinating various project activities and partnerships. The variety keeps the work interesting, and every day presents an opportunity to engage in something new and help move meaningful projects forward.

3. What aspects of your work bring you the most joy, and what do you enjoy most outside your professional life?

The most rewarding part of my work is building relationships and helping create opportunities for people to learn from one another and strengthen systems. I especially enjoy fostering partnerships, helping develop practical tools, and identifying resources or initiatives that make a real difference for states and the people they serve. Outside of work, you’ll usually find me spending time with family and friends, getting lost in a good book, engaging in one type of exercise or another, or cooking some favorite recipe.