On October 14 in Philadelphia, we were honored to receive the 2025 CQL Award of Excellence on behalf of all staff of MHDS who work tirelessly to make us worthy of this distinction. Accepting in Philadelphia on our behalf was Tomika Barbour, Director of Quality Assurance & Mental Health; Jeannie Teuber, Selmer Site Director; Bill Brewer, Retiring CEO; Deana Shephard, Chief Operations Officer; and Nora Buckley, Incoming CEO.
The award recognizes numerous organizational efforts put in place to support people with disabilities in achieving outcomes, advancing health and wellness, improving independence, promoting choice, and experiencing continuity and security. MHDS, Inc. excels in its responsiveness to meet the unique needs of people receiving its supports, implementing best practices that are tailored to individual preferences, desires, and dreams. “We want to congratulate our partners from MHDS, Inc. for receiving a 2025 CQL Award of Excellence!” says Mary Kay Rizzolo, President and CEO of CQL | The Council on Quality and Leadership. “Whether it’s integrating technology, providing mental health programs, or enhancing independence, they’re focused on what truly matters – improving the lives of the people they support.”
Bill Brewer, CEO shared, “It is an agency commitment to always put the needs of those we support first. We are humbled to receive acknowledgment for the outstanding effort for all those who are a part of our agency.”