Jennifer Hodges: ANCOR 2025 Rising Star Award Winner!
NEW LENOX, IL – Today, the American Network of Community Options and Resources (ANCOR) Foundation announced the 2025 class of honorees for three awards programs, each of which recognizes outstanding contributions to community inclusion for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Jennifer Hodges, a Residential Director for Trinity Services and honoree for the Rising Star Mid-Career Impact Award will be recognized as part of ANCOR Connect ’25, taking place April 7-9 in San Diego.
“This is an incredible honor and I truly appreciate the recognition from ANCOR,” said Hodges. “Having the opportunity to do what I do every day, in a great organization, surrounded by people with the same level of passion is very humbling.”
The ANCOR Foundation aspires to cultivate and recognize exceptional leaders supporting inclusive communities. The Foundation is the 501(c) (3) charitable arm of ANCOR, the leading voice in Washington, representing over 2,500 members of community-based providers operating across the country.
Established in 2024, the ANCOR Foundation’s Rising Star Mid-Career Impact Award recognizes mid-career professionals who support ANCOR’s mission through service and dedication to change in public policy or organizational practice.
Hodges' career in intellectual and developmental disabilities has positioned her as a subject matter expert across several key areas, particularly in sexuality education and advocacy for the rights of individuals with disabilities. Her dedication and leadership have made a significant impact on the lives of those she serves, and her work continues to be a model for best practices in the field.
Beyond her work with sexuality education, Jen also serves as a board member for the Human Rights Authority, a state-level investigative body dedicated to protecting the rights of people with disabilities.
“We are extremely proud of Jen Hodges,” said Thane Dykstra, Ph.D., President and CEO of Trinity Services. “Jen is a most talented leader and colleague. Her commitment to ongoing learning and networking has allowed staff and people receiving support to flourish. She is a rare servant leader who makes a positive difference every day.”
“Jen has been an enthusiastic member of the ANCOR community, consistently encouraging growth, collaboration, and advocacy at every level within Trinity Services,” added Dykstra. “Whether through advocating through employment, facilitating community connections, or creating inclusive events, Jen has been a transformative force, consistently breaking barriers and paving the way for greater inclusion and opportunity.”
Rita Wiersma, president of the ANCOR Foundation Board of Directors and president and CEO of Accord in St. Paul, Minn., praised Hodges: “Our communities are made stronger by the leadership of people like Jennifer Hodges who are dedicated to supporting people with disabilities to live their very best lives.”
To learn more about Trinity Services please go to www.trinityservices.org.