2024 DIR® Champions

We are pleased to recognize Dr. Gerard "Gerry" Costa as the 2024 Lifetime DIR Champion. Gerry has exhibited a longstanding and steadfast commitment to DIR over the last 30 years. Gerry first connected with Dr. Greenspan in the early 1990's and became a part of Dr. Greenspan and ICDL's senior clinician group later in the 1990's. Over the last 30 years, Gerry has been a leader in the continued growth of DIR. He has generously served on the Board of Directors of ICDL for 14 years and was the Board President for 10 of those years. Gerry has promoted DIR in the programs he has led, in the publications he has authored, and in his many teaching and training endeavors. One nominator noted, "Gerry has been an integral part of my professional formation and for my love of DIR. He has positively impacted countess professionals with his deep DIR knowledge and his warm compassionate soul." Gerry has dedicated his career to advancing developmental perspectives and has championed DIR in more ways than can be fully captured. In addition to all the work he has done, he is also one of the most beloved people in the DIR community. Not only has he championed DIR, he has lived out its core values and principles in every aspect of his life. 

Please join us in congratulating Dr. Gerard Costa, the 2024 Lifetime DIR Champion!

We are proud to recognize Buffalo Hearing and Speech Center (BHSC) as a 2024 DIR Champion for their unwavering commitment to DIR principles across their entire school community. BHSC has integrated DIR strategies into their educational practices, creating an inclusive environment where every child’s developmental needs are supported. One nominator highlighted that BHSC has “supported over 150 educators and therapists to attend DIR courses and conferences,” showing their dedication to high-quality developmental therapy. Their impact extends beyond the classroom, offering specialized training, parent workshops, and community outreach initiatives. By allocating a DIR advocate at each site and securing grant funding for continued growth, BHSC has made a profound difference in the lives of countless children and families in Western New York.

Please join us in congratulating, Buffalo Hearing & Speech Center.

We are thrilled to recognize Dawn Capelli as a DIR Champion for her expertise and exceptional dedication to the DIRFloortime. Dawn’s expertise shines through her ability to assess each child’s unique needs and craft tailored, effective strategies that foster growth and connection within families. A parent that nominated Dawn shared, “Dawn’s calm demeanor, teaching skills, and kindness have immensely impacted our journey.”

Her commitment to empowering parents and caregivers ensures that progress extends beyond therapy sessions. As another nominator noted, “Her understanding of developmental, emotional, and relational needs allows her to create impactful, individualized interventions.” Dawn’s work with families, mentorship of clinicians, and advocacy for DIR continue to make a lasting difference in the lives of children and the broader community.

Please join us in congratulating, Dawn Capelli.

We are proud to recognize Sibylle Janert as a DIR Champion for her tireless work in expanding DIR in Europe, particularly within German-speaking communities. Sibylle has played a key role in promoting DIRFloortime, organizing well-attended conferences and regularly teaching courses throughout the region. One nominator noted, “Sibylle's dedication to DIR and to ensuring that others are trained in a systematic way has supported the growth of the model and inspired others to pursue further training.” She has also presented multiple times at the International DIRFloortime Conference and published books on DIR and play, offering invaluable contributions to the DIR community and beyond. In addition, she provides ongoing supervision to practitioners and supports families and caregivers both in person and virtually. Sibylle’s commitment to fostering learning and development has been vital to expanding DIRFloortime in Europe, making her a truly deserving DIR Champion.  

Please join us in congratulating, Sibylle Janert.

We are thrilled to announce Maude Le Roux as a DIR Champion, honoring her immense contributions to the DIRFloortime community. Maude’s influence has touched countless lives, from mentoring practitioners to championing DIR in clinics and conferences worldwide. One nominator expressed, “When this opportunity came about to nominate a DIR Champion, I couldn't think of a more deserving person than Maude. She embodies the DIR model in every aspect of her work and personal interactions.” 

Maude’s dedication to lifelong learning and her commitment to advancing DIR through her global teaching, mentoring, and advocacy stand out. As another nominator shared, “Maude lives, breathes, and dreams DIR/Floortime,” illustrating her passion for the model and its impact on families and professionals alike. Her leadership and continued service to the community solidify her as a true DIR ambassador and a beacon of knowledge in the DIR world.

Please join us in congratulating, Maude LeRoux.

We are proud to recognize Elizabeth Guzman as a DIR Champion for her outstanding contributions to the DIRFloortime community. Elizabeth’s meaningful work and long-standing commitment at the Rebecca School have profoundly impacted children, families, and practitioners. As one of her colleagues shared, “After 18 years at the school, Elizabeth continues to provide invaluable support to bilingual communities and those most in need, offering a calm, co-regulatory presence that fosters growth and connection.”

Her leadership, creativity, and passion for DIR shine through in every aspect of her work. Another nominator expressed, “She embodies the vision of DIRFloortime and leads by example,” continuously mentoring colleagues and inspiring others with her knowledge. Elizabeth’s dedication to lifelong learning and her compassionate, insightful approach make her a true leader in the DIR community, where she continues to transform lives every day.

Please join us in congratulating, Elizabeth Guzman.