Norma Israel

Norma Israel is a seasoned professional with more than 30 years of experience in the intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD) field, driven by a deep belief that people with disabilities deserve the same rights, roles, and responsibilities as anyone else.

Originally from New York, Norma earned her bachelor’s degree in music therapy from Florida State University and began her career with Sunrise Community, Inc. in Tallahassee. Since 1987, she has served in a wide range of educational, leadership, and advocacy roles—many of them with Sunrise—where she has been instrumental in shaping programs that prioritize inclusion, dignity, and quality outcomes.

Her professional journey also includes teaching Pre-Algebra and Algebra I to exceptional students in public schools, serving as Executive Director for Quest, Inc., and providing behavioral analysis services through Mentor (now Sevita). At Sunrise, she has led successful acquisition and turnaround efforts for struggling organizations in Florida and played a key role in expanding sponsored residential programs in Virginia.

In 2020, Norma was appointed Director of Quality Enhancement at Sunrise, and in 2023, she also assumed the role of Interim Compliance Officer. Since then, she has earned her Certification in Healthcare Compliance and is a Certified Praesidium Guardian.

Norma is a proud graduate of the ANCOR Foundation Leadership Academy, where she found inspiration and connection during the height of the pandemic. She remains actively involved with the Academy, serving annually as a judge for the Direct Support Professional of the Year awards and mentoring future Academy participants within Sunrise.

Areas of Expertise

• Quality Enhancement
• Organizational Compliance
• Behavioral Supports
• Educational Advocacy
• Service Expansion & Turnaround Strategy
• Leadership Development

ANCOR Involvement

• Reviewer – DSP of the Year Awards