In a significant stride toward enhancing care for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities, Dr. Isaac Mawuko Adusu, author of the article “Using Physical Management in Safety Care: The Struggles of Group Home Direct Support Staff,” published in this edition of the Autism Spectrum News, has been recently named Assistant Vice President of Adult Services at Seven Hills Foundation. This prominent nonprofit health and human services organization is renowned for its dedication to supporting individuals facing significant life challenges across Massachusetts, Rhode Island, and New Hampshire.
Dr. Isaac Adusu, DHA, MSNPM, CDP, CADDCT
In his new senior leadership role, Dr. Adusu is steering the strategic direction, operational management, and quality assurance of all adult service programs the organization operates in the state of Rhode Island. His focus is on maintaining high-quality, compliant, and fiscally responsible services that align closely with the Foundation’s mission and values. This appointment marks a continuation of Dr. Adusu’s impactful work within Seven Hills Foundation, where he most recently served as Area Director of Adult Services in Rhode Island.
Leadership and Initiative
During his tenure as Area Director, Dr. Adusu championed the well-being and independence of adults with disabilities, driving growth and quality improvements across 13 group homes. Notably, he played a pivotal role in establishing three specialized behavior-intensive programs for adults with autism spectrum disorder in 2021, 2023, and 2024. These programs have set new standards for tailored compassionate care that address the unique needs of this population.
Collaborative Excellence
Dr. Adusu consistently demonstrates exceptional collaborative skills across multidisciplinary teams and stakeholder groups. He has successfully established relationships with state government officials and families to facilitate advocacy efforts, while simultaneously liaising with state and federal funding bodies to ensure program funding and contract compliance. His collaborative approach is evident in his facilitation of the Seven Hills, Rhode Island, and Northeastern University experiential learning program, focusing on caregiver recruitment and retention in human services.
His committee work exemplifies his collaborative spirit, serving on multiple boards including the Human Rights Committee and Incident Review Committee at Seven Hills, Rhode Island, the Government Affairs Committee with the Community Provider Network of Rhode Island, and the Advocacy, Social Justice & Equity Committee with the National Organization for Human Services. Through these roles, he has fostered partnerships that strengthen service delivery and policy development.
Impact and Recognition
Dr. Adusu’s impact extends far beyond individual achievements to create lasting systemic change. His work has directly improved the lives of thousands of individuals across multiple continents, with sustainable programs that continue to serve communities beyond his direct involvement. His recognition includes the 2024 Team Unity Award from the Community Provider Network of Rhode Island, Employee of the Quarter (3rd Quarter 2023) at Seven Hills, Rhode Island, and membership in the Honor Society of Phi Kappa Phi.
The multiplier effect of his work is evident in the trained professionals who continue to serve their communities using methodologies he developed, and in the policy changes that benefit entire populations of vulnerable individuals. His doctoral research in healthcare administration (DHA, MCPHS University, 2024) has contributed to evidence-based practice improvements that other organizations are adopting.
Advocacy and Empowerment
Dr. Adusu’s advocacy efforts have resulted in measurable policy changes and improved services for vulnerable populations. He was instrumental in advocating for rate reforms at the Rhode Island State House in 2022, 2023, and 2024 for children and adults with developmental disability, directly impacting funding and service quality for thousands of individuals. His advocacy work extends internationally through his significant role in facilitating programs through Seven Hills Global Outreach in Sierra Leone, Ghana and Kenya.
His published works demonstrate his commitment to systemic advocacy, with articles in major media outlets addressing inclusive design for people with disabilities and those needing autism support services. These publications have raised awareness and influenced policy discussions on critical issues affecting vulnerable populations.
Mentorship and Professional Development
Dr. Adusu has invested extensively in developing the next generation of human services professionals. He has facilitated employee learning and development by teaching certification courses in Advanced Safety Care. During his tenure as a Graduate Research/Teaching Assistant at Worcester State University (2018-2020), he mentored undergraduate students and guided the Nonprofit Management program.
Ethical Standards and Professional Integrity
Throughout his career, Dr. Adusu has maintained the highest ethical standards in all professional endeavors. His work with vulnerable populations, particularly children with disabilities and adults with developmental disabilities, requires exceptional ethical judgment and cultural sensitivity. His approach to service delivery emphasizes person-centered care that respects individual dignity and promotes self-determination.
Dr. Adusu’s academic credentials underscore his expertise and commitment to health and human service excellence. He holds a master’s degree in nonprofit management from Worcester State University and a Doctorate in Healthcare Administration from the Massachusetts College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences. His professional certifications in safety care further highlight his specialized knowledge in autism support services for adults on the spectrum.
Beyond his organizational leadership, Dr. Adusu is an active member of the American College of Healthcare Executives, engaging with healthcare professionals nationwide to promote best practices in healthcare administration. His dedication extends to community service as a board member of African Community Education in Massachusetts, where he supports educational programs for African refugee children and immigrant communities.
Dr. Isaac Mawuko Adusu’s leadership and vision are transforming health and well-being for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities. He expresses a strong passion in this regard. His appointment at Seven Hills Foundation promises continued innovation and compassionate care, ensuring that individuals with significant life challenges receive the support and respect they deserve.
His article in this fall edition of ASN is born out of his interest in exploring challenges faced by Direct Support Staff who work around the clock in providing day-to-day support to individuals on the autism spectrum. Additionally, he aims to continuously identify pragmatic solutions to address staffing challenges and retention issues across Home and Community-based programs.
For more information, contact Isaac Mawuko Adusu, DHA, MSNPM, at IAdusu@sevenhills.org, ikemawuk@gmail.com, or (774) 823-7151.
