NYS Justice Center honors Brooklyn care worker with Code of Condu...

NYS Justice Center honors Brooklyn care worker with Code of Conduct Award

State agency charged with protecting 1 million New Yorkers spotlights Independent Living Association care staff

The New York State Justice Center is pleased to announce that Trudiann Francis, Direct Support Professional (DSP) at the Independent Living Association in Brooklyn, has been selected as a recipient of the Justice Center’s Code of Conduct Award for 2026.

Trudiann has been with the Independent Living Association for more than a decade. Proudly serving as a DSP, she exemplifies an unwavering commitment to person-centered care, self-determination, and dignity. Based on the submission received by the Justice Center, Trudiann empowers people in her care to make informed decisions about their own lives, balances personal autonomy with proactive safety measures, and advocates for meaningful inclusion and participation in their communities. 

“Trudiann seamlessly blends compassion and innovation, helping those she cares for build confidence and overcome personal barriers,” said Justice Center Acting Executive Director Maria Lisi-Murray. “She consistently models the values of her organization and the principles of the Justice Center’s Code of Conduct. We’re beyond proud to present her with this year’s award.”

Those honored with a Code of Conduct Award truly embody the Justice Center’s founding principles and standards outlined in the Code of Conduct for Custodians of People with Special Needs. The purpose of the Code of Conduct is to ensure people enrolled in programs under Justice Center jurisdiction receive support in a manner that prioritizes their dignity, safety, and rights. 

Colleagues describe Trudiann as someone who is committed to empowering those in her care. She treats each person with respect and is responsive to their individual needs.

“Trudiann exemplifies the core values of the Independent Living Association. She can demonstrate these values at the Day Program. Trudiann demonstrates exceptional dedication to our mission of empowering individuals with disabilities. Her ability to inspire confidence and promote independence makes a profound impact on the lives of those she serves. We are proud to have her as part of our team and to support her in this well-deserved recognition by the Justice Center.”

Awards are compiled by the NYS Justice Center each year. Winners are selected by the Justice Center’s Advisory Council – a group that provides guidance to the Justice Center in the development of policies, programs, and regulations. The council consists of service providers, people who have or are currently receiving services, their family members, and advocates.

The Justice Center received more than 200 nominations for this year’s program. Five winners have been selected from a dozen finalists. Each submission highlighted the dedicated members of our State’s human services workforce. 

For more information on this year’s awards, please click here. 

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About the Justice Center

The Justice Center for the Protection of People with Special Needs (Justice Center) was established in 2013 by the Protection of People with Special Needs Act. The agency was created to restore public trust in the institutions and individuals charged with caring for vulnerable populations by protecting the health, safety, and dignity of all people with special needs. Through investigation, education, and action, the Justice Center creates a safer environment for more than 1,000,000 individuals receiving services across six State Agencies. 

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