Linda Starks, Transition Counselor with Oklahoma Department of Rehabilitation, Tulsa, has been named Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor of 2005 by the Oklahoma Association of Persons in Supported Employment. Starks was nominated by the Supported Employment Program staff at Central Technology Center, Sapulpa, for her efforts at assisting clients of the SE program.

Central Tech's SE program coordinator Kim Howard , and his staff of Employment Training Specialists, cited the following attributes of Starks in their nomination of the tireless counselor: Linda is the epitome of professionalism and leadership in her chosen field. Linda invites supported employment agencies to participate in formal presentations of their services to every eligible student on her case load. She facilitates the presentations with dignity and care, fully appreciating the impact supported employment can have on the future of her clients.

Linda encourages the family of clients to be involved in counsel and planning. While final decisions are ultimately made by the client, Linda sees the value in getting input and direction from natural supports.

Vocational Rehab funds are invested in eligible clients to assist in ensuring their success; Linda diligently invests her skills, her talent and her time in the same cause. She uses her skills to guide the client in vocational choices and her talent to motivate and inspire them. Linda isn't selfish with her time; she willingly goes the extra mile to be sure that the client and every member of the service team understands the goal of successful rehabilitation and strives toward a positive outcome. It isn't uncommon for Linda to make site-visits to observe her client in the workplace. She is a hands-on counselor and keeps in touch with the Service Team.