Jane Gallivan Awarded 2015 Ben Censoni Award

The Ben Censoni Award for Public Managers is the only award that recognizes public officials who strive to improve the lives of people with developmental disabilities and is named after the late Ben Censoni, former developmental disabilities director for Michigan and chair of the association’s Governmental Affairs Committee. Ben’s motto was “people are what really matter.”

 This year’s award recipient is Ms. Jane Gallivan, Director of the Delaware Division of Developmental Disabilities Services. Jane started her career in developmental disabilities (DD) as a direct support professional. This experience allowed her to interact directly with individuals with DD. This involvement and her belief that all people are valued, have many talents and have the right to participate and be integrated into their local communities, began this wonderful journey that we have witnessed. Jane also served as the DD director in Maine for many years, and under her leadership, Maine was found in compliance with a federal class action lawsuit. She created a Medicaid support waiver designed to meet the needs of individuals living at home with their families, developed an electronic data system and worked with individuals, families, and providers to develop and grow Maine’s shared living model. Under Jane’s direction, the DD office also developed a unique communication program for individuals who created their own means of communication with use of gestures and “home” signs. CMS approved the assessment process as part of Maine’s comprehensive waiver, the only one of its kind in the country. As Jane began her tenure as director in Delaware, she brought her vision to that state. She has implemented a plan that will allow a gradual transition toward community-based employment; even before the CMS Community Settings Rule was published. Jane also shared her passion and commitment while serving on the NASDDDS board. These same leadership qualities helped to guide the association to balance the needs of varied member states while maintaining a clear voice true to our core mission and values. Jane is truly a pioneer. We are all grateful for her years to service in our field and her tireless dedication to her work and service on the NASDDDS board.