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National CASA Awards of Excellence2012 conference logo

National CASA is pleased to honor outstanding individuals and programs that provide hope to abused and neglected children with the Awards of Excellence. These awards commemorate the exceptional contributions and dedication of child advocates, program directors, judges, board members and CASA/GAL programs excelling in diversity efforts.

Please join us in honoring the 2012 Awards of Excellence honorees at the awards luncheon on Monday, June 11.

G. F. Bettineski Child Advocate of the Year

Nancy Little, CASA, Inc. of Davidson County, Nashville, Tennessee

“I know firsthand what many of the children I’ve worked with have endured. I don't ever forget, because I believe it helps me strive to be a much better volunteer.”

When she was a child, adults failed to intervene for Nancy Little and get her the help she desperately needed. Now she is standing up for the rights of children as a CASA volunteer.

Read more about Nancy.

Volunteer of the Year

National CASA Board Member of the Year

T. D. Hughes, ProKids, Cincinnati, Ohio

“T. D.’s efforts have resulted in a set of clear, comprehensive and compelling goals and the practical strategies for how to achieve them. This clarity has ignited a powerful sense of urgency and collective purpose throughout the organization. Passion has led to performance, and performance to additional passion and excitement.” 
 
~ Jeb H. Head, ProKids president emeritus

Read more about T. D.

Board Member of the Year

Kappa Alpha Theta CASA/GAL Program Director of the Year

Bill Collins, CASAAdvocates for Kids, Helena, Montana

“There is no one associated with the family services/court process who so clearly cares about each child’s best interests…This is not a job or career for Bill. It is his life’s work. Every child is of the utmost importance to him.” 
   ~ Carolyn A. Clemens, court-appointed attorney

Read more about Bill

Program Director of the Year

National CASA Judge of the Year

Hon. Joyce Williams Warren, Pulaski County CASA, Little Rock, Arkansas

"In Arkansas, Judge Joyce Williams Warren is the moving force behind every innovative court improvement initiative involving child welfare. She is not only a leader, but an excellent resource to our judges, attorneys, CASA staff and volunteers, caseworkers and foster parents." ~ Jim Hannah, chief justice, Supreme Court of Arkansas 

Read more about Judge Warren.

Judge of the Year

National CASA Inclusion Award

CASA of Travis County, Austin, Texas

CASA of Travis County has increased diversity at all levels and in all activities of its organization by dedicating staff time and organization resources to this strategic plan goal. Through a range of initiatives, including a targeted media campaign, cultural awareness training and relationship-building, CASA of Travis County has succeeded in reaching new audiences and changing its organizational culture. 

Read more about the program's achievements.

Promising Practices Spotlight: Tech Students for CASA

CASA of the South Plains, Inc., Lubbock, Texas

Tech Students for CASA works one-on-one with CASA of the South Plains on all projects, fundraisers and activities. Founded in September 2010, the group's main goal is to bring awareness of the CASA cause to the University.

"I believe Tech Students for CASA is an outstanding example of what college students around the country can do to help CASA address the important issues and challenges we face as a community and a nation." ~ Stephen Maxner, faculty member, Texas Tech University

Read more about Tech Students for CASA.