Position: Developmental Assistant II
Years of Service: 19
Shaneequelakeeya Pierre-Antoine was named one of the Staten Island DDSOO’s 2024 DSPs of the Year due to her positive attitude, critical thinking skills and commitment to her work.
According to Developmental Assistant III Natalia Lee, Shaneequelakeeya has a dedicated affection and empathy for the people she cares for; she always says positive words to the people she supports, uplifting them and carrying them through difficult times.
“The support and empathy she shows them will stay with them through the good times, as well as the challenging times,” says Lee.
What sets her apart from others is her ability to communicate in a way that has allowed her to create better communication in the work environment, within all cultures, and allowing her to lead successful training in-services and house meetings. This has resulted in increased employee engagement and productivity.
“Shaneequelakeeya believes the first step in helping people with developmental disabilities is educating them with the right words,” says Lee. “She supports teaching good communication skills, and teaching people different terms and greetings to be used out in the community.”
Shaneequelakeeya also makes every birthday and holiday special, decorating the homes she works in as if they were her own. “She shows up to work even on her days off if that means celebrating with the people we support,” Lee says.
“She is always the first to volunteer for trips or events, giving the people we serve a helping hand during long-distance activities,” Lee adds. “Shaneequelakeeya goes above and beyond for the people in our care and the DSPs. She displays endless integrity and dedication.”