Suzy Requarth | Program Director, Self-Determination Services

Program Director, Self-Determination Services

Hi, my name is Suzy

My path into this field started right out of college, when I landed a position as a Teacher's Aide at a residential school for high school students with severe and profound developmental disabilities. I fell in love with it, and I've never really looked back. Over the years I've worn a lot of different hats, but no matter how my role has changed, my experience as a direct support staff member has remained my compass.

What is important to me...

No matter how much my career has grown and changed, I always come back to my roots as a direct support professional. That experience keeps me grounded in what actually matters for the people and families we serve.

I am known for...

Bringing different perspectives to the table and finding the common ground that ties everyone together. Families I've worked with would tell you they feel confident having me in their corner, and that I'm approachable and easy to communicate with.

I really enjoy...

Spending time with my wife, my kid, and my dogs. When I'm not with family, you'll probably find me out on a trail run, birdwatching, or lost in a good book.

Experience

Suzy brings decades of experience across nearly every level of the developmental disabilities field. She has worked as a Direct Support Professional, DSP Manager, IDD Therapist, Behavior Consultant, Service Coordinator, and Program Manager, and has held leadership roles including Regional Manager at a San Diego Regional Center, CA DDS SDP Ombudsperson, CA DDS Assistant Deputy Director over SDP and HCBS programs, and Director of Client Services at Westside Regional Center. She currently serves as Board President of Cal-IF, reflecting her ongoing commitment to shaping the future of Independent Facilitation in California. This breadth of experience gives her a rare ability to understand the system from the inside out and to advocate effectively within it.

Education

Bachelor of Arts in History & Geography, University of Illinois

Master of Education in Rehabilitation and Clinical Mental Health Counseling, The Pennsylvania State University