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What is a Direct Support Professional?

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The First Deaf University in America

For more than 160 years, Gallaudet University has been a center of Deaf education and culture. In 1988, its students made history.
Three photos sit above bold text on a navy blue background. In the first photo, several people wearing hairnets and blue gloves work together at a bakery station, shaping and placing cookie dough on trays. In the second, two people wearing helmets and sunglasses ride together in a small black convertible cart, parked outdoors near a grassy lot with trees and parked vehicles in the background. In the third, a woman with curly hair smiles gently while leaning close to another woman with short purple hair seated in a wheelchair, mouth open mid-expression, indoors. Below the photos, bold green text reads What Is A, followed by white text reading Direct Support Professional. In the bottom left corner is a white outline icon of two hands cupped around a heart.

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July 24, 2026

What is a Direct Support Professional?

The people supporting those with disabilities.
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A graphic featuring Dr. Marissa Ruff centered in the image, smiling at the camera. She is a white woman with straight brown hair, wearing a dark top and a gold necklace. Behind her is a blurred group photo of staff and a virtual meeting screen, suggesting a professional community setting. Large green text reads “DSP to VP” across the top, highlighting her career progression from Direct Support Professional to Vice President. On the left is a small inset photo of Dr. Ruff and colleagues holding certificates at an awards event. On the right is another inset photo of her holding an award in front of a purple backdrop that reads “Innovation & Impact.” At the bottom left, text reads “Dr. Marissa Ruff,” and at the bottom right, green text reads “Exclusive Interview.”

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February 6, 2026

Leading An Organization Supporting 1,000+ People with Disabilities | From DSP to VP

“I didn’t care about making millions of dollars. I just wanted to make a difference."
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