The Arc of Essex County is celebrating the professional growth of two staff members who recently completed New Jersey’s inaugural Frontline Supervisor Training (FLS) Program, a nine-month leadership development initiative designed specifically for frontline supervisors in the disability services field.

Christy Campbell and Shamirah Suggs-Morin, Program Managers from Opportunity Zone and SYA Day Programs, respectively, were among more than 25 supervisors from provider agencies across New Jersey selected to participate in the program. Offered through a collaboration between The Boggs Center on Developmental Disabilities and Direct Support Workforce Solutions at the University of Minnesota’s Institute on Community Integration, the competency-based training focused on strengthening leadership skills that directly benefit both staff and the people they support.

Beginning in October and culminating with a graduation ceremony in May, participants explored strategies for training and mentoring Direct Support Professionals, facilitating effective teams, improving decision-making, and retaining high-quality staff.

For Shamirah, one of the most valuable aspects of the experience was learning alongside supervisors from other organizations. “The training was helpful,” she said. “I enjoyed the small group interactions and networking with other Direct Support Professionals from other agencies. I learned strategies on how to handle employee challenges and manage employees’ performance.”

She said the program reinforced the importance of leading by example and creating a positive workplace culture from the very beginning of each day. “It is very important to set expectations and role model exceptional work ethic. I ‘set the tone’ every day. A small gesture makes a huge impact.”

Congratulations to Christy and Shamirah on completing this rigorous leadership program. The knowledge and skills they have gained will help strengthen their teams, support our dedicated Direct Support Professionals, and ultimately enhance the quality of services provided to the people The Arc of Essex County supports every day.