Director Spotlight: Tony Green (NE)

1. What inspired you to enter the IDD field?

As a freshman in college, I accepted a position with a local developmental disabilities provider agency. During that time, I had the privilege of supporting three remarkable gentlemen whose growth and personal journeys profoundly shaped my own. What began as a college job quickly became a calling. Although I initially had different career aspirations, my experience as a direct support professional inspired me to change my educational path—and I have never looked back.

2. Which priorities are guiding your work this year?

My primary priorities this year are long-term sustainability, high-quality service delivery, and strengthening provider capacity. We are at a pivotal moment: funding constraints persist, workforce shortages continue, and enrollment is growing. These pressures are being felt across states and throughout the provider community. Thoughtful strategy and collaboration will be essential to ensure we can meet current needs while building a stable and resilient system for the future.

3. What place best reflects the spirit of your state?

Nebraska is often summed up by a familiar phrase: “What’s the best part about Nebraska? It’s the people.” Our state’s cities, towns, and villages form a close-knit yet resilient community of just over two million hardworking residents who embody a neighbor-helping-neighbor spirit. While we’re famously outnumbered by cattle nearly three to one, Nebraska is also home to a vibrant urban center in Omaha—featuring the nationally recognized Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium and the annual College World Series. We also take pride in having the nation’s only one-house (unicameral) state legislature. Together, these elements reflect the unique blend of humility, strength, and civic pride that defines our state.