Dungarvin’s Rose Musgrave Goes Above and Beyond to Win DSP of the Year for Indiana

When Rose Musgrave found out ANCOR had selected her as the Direct Support Professional (DSP) of the Year for the state of Indiana, she was stunned. She had no idea she had been nominated, or even that the ANCOR (American Network of Community Options & Resources) DSP of the Year Award existed.

“I still have to pinch myself because it still doesn’t feel real,” Rose said. “I’m very humbled by it, and I’m very honored … I didn’t realize how big of a deal this is.”

Rose is one of seven Dungarvin DSPs to win the ANCOR DSP of the Year Award this year. She and five of the other winners traveled to San Diego in early April to receive their awards at the ANCOR Connect ’25 conference. (See photos below from her time there.) Indeed, the award is a big deal, as ANCOR awards just one DSP from each state.

Working with Dungarvin for 13 years, Rose is known among her Indiana team for consistently going above and beyond to support Charity, age 51, Elizabeth, 52, and Jessica, 42, all who have intellectual and developmental disabilities. They live together in a group home in Valparaiso.

Fortune Ndlovu, a Dungarvin Indiana Area Director, relates that Rose is especially focused on the unique preferences, needs and goals of the individuals she supports.

“She takes the time to deeply understand each person’s desires, advocating fiercely to ensure their voices are heard,” Ndlovu said. “Her ability to empower them to take control of their lives demonstrates her exemplary commitment to person-centered care.”

Examples of this include supporting the women to maintain strong ties to their families, participate in community events and accomplish their personal goals. Rose also organizes special birthday and holiday celebrations for the women.

Rose spends time with “her girls,” as she lovingly calls them, almost every day. “I just love to see that they’re able to get out there and embrace who they are, and continue to live a normal life,” she said.

In addition to the outstanding support she provides for Charity, Elizabeth and Jessica, Rose is a leader and mentor to less experienced Dungarvin DSPs, who are learning about and adjusting to the demands of the position, Ndlovu said. “Rose’s willingness to share insights, offer advice and patiently assist colleagues has led to a more supportive and knowledgeable team environment in the home.”

In her role as DSP,  Rose shows her commitment to Dungarvin’s principles of self-determination, self-actualization and preservation of dignity for people with disabilities, as well as our mission to respect and respond to the choices of people in need of supports. We are grateful for your leadership, Rose, and applaud you for this tremendous honor.