Direct Support Professionals recognized with 2026 McCrimmon Award

Direct Support Professionals recognized with 2026 McCrimmon Award

September 15th, 2026

By Autism Society of North Carolina Communications

Each year during the annual Direct Care Professional Recognition Week, the Autism Society of North Carolina (ASNC) celebrates its direct support professionals (DSPs) and the difference they make in the lives of the autistic individuals they serve. The McCrimmon Award is one way ASNC does that.

The award is named for Ed McCrimmon, a longtime staff member at ASNC known for his outstanding dedication and integrity in service to individuals with autism. Tragically, he died in 2017. The McCrimmon Award, sponsored by Rob and Jennifer Christian, was established to keep Ed’s memory alive. It celebrates other direct support professionals like him who give their heart and soul to provide critical care to individuals with autism.

Congratulations to the 2026 McCrimmon Award winners: Marc Brown and Rachel Ramey for their outstanding commitment and service.

Frederick “Marc” Brown

Marc is part of the team at the Autism Society of North Carolina’s Greensboro office. He has been working in the autism field for 21 years, spending the last 13 years with ASNC. “It’s a great place to be,” says Marc. “It’s a team environment; everyone works together.”

Marc began his time at ASNC serving a young 16-year-old client and continues to serve this young man every day as he has transitioned into adulthood. Over the years, Marc has witnessed many accomplishments including his client’s successful graduation from high school. “His high school graduation has been one of the most rewarding parts of our work together,” says Marc.

Today, Marc focuses on helping his client develop life skills that will allow him to be as independent as possible. They work on cooking and cleaning, making a budget, and how to food shop. They enjoy visiting the park for some exercise and time in the community. “He may never live completely on his own, but increasing his independence is definitely our goal.”

Of their son’s experience with Marc, his parents have this to say: “Without Marc’s dedication and support, I don’t know where my son and family would be today! He has made a big impact on all our lives, and we are thankful for him.”

For Marc it is has been, and continue to be, a “fun ride, challenging, but fun.”

Rachel Ramey

Rachel is also part of ASNC’s Greensboro team. She came to the ASNC in 2024 and loves it. “There are so many things I love about my work as a DSP,” says Rachel. “Each client is so different and unique and I love helping them. Seeing their growth over time is just amazing to watch.”

With family and friends on the spectrum, Rachel has always had a passion for supporting people with autism. When she saw the available DSP position at the Autism Society of North Carolina, she jumped at the chance to become part of the team.

Rachel works every day with two young adult clients, helping each of them meet their individual goals. Developing greater independence is an important focus for Rachel and her clients. “Helping them each become as independent as they can be is a lot of what we work on. Practicing daily tasks, building communication skills – these things help to give them a sense of their own independence.”

Rachel’s skill as a DSP is greatly appreciated by the families of her clients. One parent describes Rachel as “a gift,” noting, “Our son requires not just caregivers but cheerleaders! Because of his extensive social phobias, he needs people who can anticipate, understand, and help him with his perception of the world. These attributes are not necessarily things that can be taught or learned – a good bit requires a natural aptitude and insight. Rachel has the natural ability to interpret and understand the complex and sometimes misleading behavior expressed by our son. The stress of daily monitoring can be easily handed over to her with our complete confidence. She is a gift to our family. That is why we nominate Rachel for this special recognition for her service.”

Rachel appreciates how important it is for families to have a place where their loved ones get the help and support they need in a safe and caring environment. She believes the work she and her fellow direct support professionals do, give parents “much-needed peace of mind” and a break from the often 24/7 care families provide. And she’s happy to do that work. When talking about her two and half years as an ASNC DSP she simply says,“I’m loving it.”

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