Hanna Diaz joined Rise just over a year ago, stepping into her role as a Direct Support Professional (DSP) at nVent’s distribution center in Dayton, Minn. with a natural ability to lead with compassion. Her background in working with animals gave her patience, attentiveness, and care that now shine through in her work with the people we serve.

Hanna first discovered Rise after seeing a Rise van on the road and decided to learn more. “I looked the organization up and fell in love with the mission,” she said. “I was impressed with everything from day one.” She values the work-life balance, the benefits, and especially the sense of purpose and connection she’s found in her role.

Her colleagues can’t say enough about her impact. “Hanna is a wonderful DSP and continually shows up each day with a smile and tons of ideas on how to better support her crew,” a coworker shared. “Her crew constantly boasts about how they enjoy coming to work because of her.”

Hanna has built strong, respectful relationships with her team and works tirelessly to ensure that the people we serve are included in training, meetings, and everyday workplace conversations. “She is a very strong advocate,” one colleague said. An example of this hands-on advocacy is the study guide she created to help people remember and track their daily job duties.

When challenges arise, Hanna meets them with grace, patience, and a focus on growth for the people she works with. She’s proud of how she herself has grown, both personally and professionally, and credits her work at Rise with helping her become a better communicator and leader.

Outside of work, Hanna enjoys spending time with her dogs, strength training, rollerblading, volunteering at a local animal shelter, and hanging out with her niece and nephews.

Despite being relatively new to the field, Hanna has already made a lasting impression. “She embodies the very core of Rise’s mission,” a coworker said. We couldn’t agree more. Congratulations, Hanna, and thank you for all that you do!