Champion for Children Conference 1999-2019 - 20th Annual
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20th Annual
Champion for Children Conference
1999-2019
March 20-21, 2019
Abilene Convention Center
Abilene, TX
Hendrick Health System
Social Entertainment Sponsor
2
Conference Schedule
Conference Day 1
Wednesday, March 20, 2019
Conference Check-In and Registration 10:30am – 12:50pm
Opening Plenary 1:00 – 3:00pm
Class Sessions 3:15 – 4:45
Social at SODA 6:00 – 9:00pm
Conference Day 2
Thursday, March 21, 2019
Conference Check-In and Registration 8:00 – 8:25am
Class Sessions 8:30 – 9:45am
Exhibit Hall 9:45 – 10:15am
Class Sessions 10:15-11:45am
Recognition Lunch 12:00 – 1:30pm
Class Sessions 1:45 – 3:00pm
Exhibit Hall 3:00 – 3:30pm
Class Sessions 3:30-4:45pm
Featured Events
Social at the SODA
Connect with professionals and speakers attending the conference. Dinner, pay on your own, is provided by
Abilene’s awesome food trucks. There will be a cash bar. Entertainment provided by Dave Hobbs Band. Must
wear conference name badge for entrance. Conference attendees may purchase an additional ticket for $10 at the
conference. No children please.
Exhibit Hall
Vendors will be available on Wednesday and Thursday. Visit the Exhibit Hall, snacks and drinks provided
Wednesday and Thursday. While you are snacking, see what our vendors have to offer. Some vendors have door
prizes, the conference scavenger hunt will provide you a chance to earn more prizes. Who doesn’t like free stuff?
3
Robert Copeland Memorial
Conference Sponsor
We are grateful for our sponsor and creator of the
Champion for Children Conference
Melanie Copeland
Thank you for your support and dedication to
ensure that helping professionals are prepared to
champion for the children in their care
4
Class Schedule
Day/Time Name of Class Presenter(s) Rm #
Wednesday, March 20, 2019
1:00 - 3:00 Opening Plenary Beth and Nancy Thomas Conf Rm
It’s OK Not to Be OK: How to Handle Compassion
3:15 - 4:45 Fatigue and Being Overwhelmed Kristen Guillory, PhD. CC1
Training to Reduce the Potential of Secondary Marla Polk; Patty Wenetschlaeger, J.D.;
3:15 – 4:45 Trauma for Victim Professionals and Victims (Ethics) Tony Barker CC4
Rethinking Foster Care: Community Based Care in Brandon Logan, J.D., Ph D.; Sherrel
3:15 - 4:45 Region 2 (Ethics) Mathews, LMSW-AP; Randy Neff Med. 201/2
3:15 - 4:45 Part II of Opening Plenary Beth and Nancy Thomas Conf Rm
Thursday, March 21, 2019
Sexting, Inappropriate Content, TMI: Risky Behavior
8:30 -9:45 Youth Are Engaging in Online and How to Prevent it Meghan Zuraw, J.D. CC1
Intersection of Child Abuse and Prevention of Human
8:30 -9:45 Trafficking - Protective and Promotive Factors Wende Hilsenrod, MA CC4
Megan Harbin, LPC, LCPPA; Crystal Leake,
8:30 -9:45 Trust Based Relational Interventions (TBRI) LPC 201/2
8:30 -9:45 The Cookie Monster: A Generational Nightmare Brian Baxter, Major Conf Rm
Domestic Minor Sex Trafficking and its Intersection
10:15 - 11:45 with the Child Welfare System Meghan Zuraw, J.D. CC1
The Impact of Secondary Trauma on Service
10:15 - 11:45 Providers: Bouncing Back Wende Hilsenrod, MA CC4
10:15 - 11:45 Adverse Childhood Experiences Richard Capodagli, MEd, LPC-S 201/2
Adapting a Collaborative Approach to Child Ann Marie Willoughby, RN, CA-SANE, CP-
10:15 - 11:45 protection and safety (Ethics) SANE; EJ Jessup, MSW, LBSW Conf Rm
12:00 - 1:30 Awards Lunch Beth and Nancy Thomas CC 2/3
The National Center for Missing & Exploited
1:45 - 3:15 Children: A Powerful Resource Meghan Zuraw, J.D. CC1
Zach Miller, LMFT-A, QMHP; April
Conway, LCPAA; Melissa Holmans, LCDC,
1:45 - 3:15 Mosaic Behavioral Support For At Risk Foster Kids CART, CCTP CC4
Supporting Children Affected by Parents with Mental
1:45 - 3:15 Illness Vizion "Danette" Jackson, LCSW 201/2
1:45 - 3:15 Removing Barriers of Our Homeless Students (Ethics) Darrin Cox Conf Rm
Drug Exposed Children: Intervention, Arrest, and
3:45 - 5:00 Prosecution (Ethics) Andy Meiron, Marshall Davidson, CC1
Justin Whiteley, MACM; Sarah McClean,
3:45 - 5:00 Communities In Schools of the Big Country MSW CC4
Vizion "Danette" Jackson, LCSW; Steve
3:45 - 5:00 Military Family Advocacy: Connecting for Success Kish SMSgt (Ret) 201/2
How Pheonotyping DNA was used to solve the Scott Bird, Lieutenant, Vance Hill, Sheriff,
3:45 - 5:00 Brownwood murder case Michael Murray, District Attorney Conf Rm
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Class Descriptions
Wednesday, March 20th Rethinking Foster Care: residential treatment facilities,
Opening Plenary Parts I and II Community Based Care in group homes, foster and adoptive
Beth and Nancy Thomas. Beth Region 2. (Ethics) Brandon homes, churches, and schools.
and Nancy Thomas will present on Logan, J.D., PhD; Sherrel Participants get an introduction
how Beth overcame Reactive Mathews, MSW; Randy Neff, and overview of the three
Attachment Disorder to become a M.S. This session will inform harmonious principles of TBRI
successful adult. Nancy will attendees of the Community Based and have more knowledge on how
decipher the alphabet soup of child Care model and the role of to apply them in their work with
diagnosis and how to provide relief 2INgage in the region and share “children from hard places”
to parents and children. early indicators of success from
implementation The Cookie Monster: A
It’s OK Not to Be OK: How to Generational Nightmare. Brian
Handle Compassion Fatigue and Thursday, March 21st Baxter, Maj. This presentation
Being Overwhelmed. Dr. Sexting, Inappropriate Content, will highlight a case study
Kristen Guillory. This TMI: Risky Behavior Youth Are involving a lifelong threat to
presentation will guide participants Engaging in Online and How to children; his grooming methods;
through intentional activities in Prevent it. Meghan Zuraw, J. D. his tactics; his habits and his
order to discuss compassion Many children become victims victims. Focusing on missed
fatigue, signs to recognize, and online or are identified and opportunities of the past as well as
how to address. Dr. Guillory will groomed for victimization online. outstanding initiative and attention
assist participants in the Unfortunately, youth are unaware to detail that led to the offender's
development of a burnout of the true risk of their online capture and the recovery of
prevention/intervention plan and activity, and caregivers often feel multiple victims as well as the
how to actually implement it! left behind. By utilizing NCMEC’s need for multiple disciplines at
Some of Dr. Brene Browns’ study resources, service providers can each stage of the investigation.
on vulnerability and self-judgment fill the gap by not only talking to
commentary on asking for help youth in their community about Domestic Minor Sex Trafficking
will be incorporated. Oh and by their online activity, but also by and Its Intersection with the
the way, there will be music and providing information and Child Welfare System. Meghan
possibly some DANCING. resources to caregivers to help Zuraw, J.D. This presentation
them in keeping their children will aid participants in identifying
Training to Reduce the Potential safer online. vulnerable youth, recognizing the
of Secondary Trauma for Victim indicators of child sex trafficking,
Professionals and Victims. Intersection of Child Abuse and understanding the lures traffickers
(Ethics) Marla Polk, Tony Prevention of Human use to groom and recruit victims,
Barker, Patty Wenetschlaeger, Trafficking - Protective and and accessing available resources
J.D. An interactive, entertaining Promotive Factors. Wende for preventing the foster care to
seminar and role-playing Hilsenrod, MA. This lecture commercial sex trade pipeline.
workshop focusing on Conflict session will look at and encourages
Resolution, Trauma Informed discussion surrounding: Child The Impact of Secondary
Care, and Reducing Secondary abuse as a training ground for Trauma on Service Providers:
Trauma to those working with pimp control; How maladaptive Bouncing Back). Wende
victims. We focus training to help schemas are formed; The different Hilsenrod, M.A. Service
first responders reduce effects of forms of Human Trafficking; and Providers usually have the
secondary or vicarious trauma that How promotive, protective, and expectation that they can be
can occur from working with cultural factors can reduce adverse immersed daily in suffering and
victims. Attendees receive training effects of trauma loss without being affected.
in Conflict Resolution Skills with Service Providers can also look at
emphasis on victims and their Trust Based Relational self-care as a "one size fits" and
families. Learn how to use Trauma Interventions (TBRI). Megan then wonder why they are not
Informed Care approach to lessen Harbin, Crystal Leake. feeling better. This session looks a
symptoms of PTSD in victims. TBRI is a therapeutic model that both of these concepts and takes a
trains caregivers to provide deeper dive into how to
effective support and treatment for personalize self-care.
at-risk children. TBRI has been
applied in orphanages, courts,
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Adverse Childhood Experiences NCMEC in cases of missing help attendees better understand
(ACE). Richard Capodagli, children, child sex trafficking, and the scale of drug exposed children,
MEd, LPC-S. This course will online exploitation. Additionally, the techniques to ensuring safety,
delve into details and results of the participants will learn resources for and barriers limiting actions taken
Adverse Childhood Experiences reporting and obtaining additional by DFPS, law enforcement, and
Study. Participants will gain assistance throughout an prosecutors.
knowledge and insights into how investigation.
an individual's ACE's score Communities in Schools of the
impacts their life as an adult. Mosaic Behavioral Support for Big Country. Justin Whiteley,
Participants will have the At Risk Foster Kids. Zach MACM; Sarah McClean, MSW.
opportunity to score themselves Miller, LMFT-A, QMHP; April Participants will be able to see the
via the ACE's questionnaire and Conway, LCPAA; Melissa big picture of Communities in
learn their personal, confidential Holmans, LCDC, CART, CCTP. Schools of the Big Country, and
results. Participants will have the This is a presentation designed to the model they utilize serving
opportunity for interactive introduce a program in the Abilene students in the school system.
discussion regarding how the and surrounding area that works They will connect the importance
ACE's study can be utilized to help with foster kids with behavioral of social/emotional learning and
the populations they serve. issues. taking time to assess students to
help change their stories.
Adapting a Collaborative Supporting Children Affected by
Approach to Child protection Parents with Mental Illness. V. Military Family Advocacy:
and safety. (Ethics) Ann Marie Danette Jackson, LCSW. Connecting for Success. Steve
Willoughby, RN, CA-SANE, CP Participants will learn how the Kish, SMSgt (Ret), V. Danette
SANE; EJ Jessup, LMSW. The military addresses allegations of Jackson, LCSW. Participants will
presentation is a case study family violence, what services are learn how the military addresses
outlining the life of a young girl offered and how Family Advocacy allegations of family violence,
who was abused by her staff can work with local agencies what services are offered and how
grandfather and the behaviors she to assist in strengthening Dyess Family Advocacy staff can work
displayed, as a result of the abuse. families in order to prevent with local agencies to assist in
The study will show how she abuse/neglect. Format will follow strengthening Dyess families in
slipped through the cracks despite a PowerPoint presentation with order to prevent abuse/neglect.
interactions with different open discussion and dialogue. Format will follow a PowerPoint
professional agencies. A systems presentation with open discussion
approach will be discussed Removing Barriers of Our and dialogue.
outlining roles of various Homeless Students. Darrin Cox.
professionals to help identify The intent of the McKinney-Vento How Phenotyping DNA was used
problems of abuse at an early Act is to remove barriers to to solve the Brownwood
stage. The study will also show the educational access and success for Murders. Scott Bird,
progress of this young girl, once a children and youth experiencing Lieutenant; Vance Hill, Sheriff;
collaborative approach was homelessness. This requires State Michael Murray, District
utilized. Educational Agencies to review Attorney. A cold case was solved
and revise any law, regulation, within 1 ½ years using DNA
The National Center for Missing practice, or policy that acts as a Phenotyping – a cutting-edge
& Exploited Children: A barrier to the success, of homeless forensic DNA analysis service.
Powerful Resource. Meghan children in schools. A community- DNA phenotyping was used to
Zuraw, J.D. In 2017, 464,324 wide commitment to support create a drawing which accurately
reports of missing minors were homeless families with children predicted the physical appearance
received, and 10% of them and unaccompanied homeless and ancestry of the suspect from
originated from Texas alone. The youths can result in resource DNA recovered at the crime scene.
NCMEC’s Cyber Tipline received sharing to remove these barriers. The panel will discuss how to
over 10.2 million new reports of handle lengthy investigations with
apparent child pornography, online Drug Exposed Children: a large number of suspects, when
enticement of minors, and child Intervention, Arrest, and Phenotyping DNA can further an
sex trafficking in 2017. Prosecution. (Ethics) Andy investigation, and how and why
Participants will gain knowledge Meiron, Marshall Davidson. the decision not to seek the death
of the free resources provided by 7
This is a lecture-based training to penalty was reached.
Veterans of Foreign Wars Auxiliary
to Martin D. Denson Post 6873
Social Entertainment Sponsor
8
Conference Presenter Bios
Nanc y Thomas
Opening Plenary W ednesda y, A Professional Therapeutic Parent, Nancy Thomas’
March 20th and Luncheon forty years of successful work with traumatized
Ke ynote Thursda y, March 21st: children helped her to develop her program, which
is now used in homes, treatment facilities and
schools around the world. She has worked
Beth Thomas tirelessly to improve the lives of children
Beth Thomas, once labeled the “Child of Rage” by internationally. Her program is acclaimed for
HBO, is now a Neonatal Intensive Care Nurse. She helping many types of emotional disorders,
was also nominated and selected as a top finalist including Reactive Attachment Disorder (RAD),
for the 2008 and 2009 Mountain West Nurse of the Early Childhood Trauma, Asperger’s Syndrome
Year Award and winner of 2010 Mountain West (AS), Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD), PTSD,
Nurse of the Year Award in Mentoring. Beth knows and Bipolar Disorder. Many of her contemporaries
what it is like to be an angry, defiant, destructive have recognized Nancy for her valiant and
child. She once was one. She has unique insights dedicated efforts specializing in attachment and
into the mind of a challenging child with Attachment conscience development with violent children.
Disorder. Her life of survival and victory brings hope Nancy also gives back to the worldwide community
and understanding to parents and professionals through the nonprofit group she founded, Stop
working to heal a wounded child. She shares her America’s Violent Youth (SAVY, Inc). She directs
experience and wisdom with love and laughter. Family Bonding Camps for families with challenging
Beth gives a deeper understanding of Reactive children, and also conducts seminars and
Attachment Disorder from the inside out. She workshops to empower teachers, parents, and
shares effective tools to make a difference with mental health professionals. Nancy is the author of:
challenging children. Most of all she gives hope in When Love Is Not Enough and Dandelion On My
a hopeless exhausting situation, empowering Pillow, Butcher Knife Beneath, co-author of The
parents with a positive vision for their child’s future. Handbook of Attachment Interventions, published
by Academic Press, and numerous instructional
DVDs and CDs.
Noah Project, Inc. 5802 Texas Avenue Abilene, Texas 79605
“Empowering victims to become survivors and working to end domestic violence and sexual assault”
• Secure Shelter
• 24-Hour Crisis and Help Line
• Personalized Safety Planning
• Legal Advocacy
• Outreach Services
• Professional Counseling
• Advocacy and Accompaniment
• Life Skills, Parenting, and Chemical Dependency Classes
• Prevention classes in area schools
Serving Taylor, Callahan, Eastland, Jones, Shackelford, Stephens, Stonewall, Haskell,
Throckmorton, and Knox Counties since 1979
(325) 676-7107 24-Hour Crisis Line (800) 444-3551 www.noahproject.org
9
Presenters Marla Polk
Wednesda y, March 20, 2 019 Business owner with twenty-five years of experience
in the private sector. She has trained hundreds of
Kristen Guillor y, PhD students in customer service, specializing in
Dr. Kristen Guillory is the owner of a consulting and communication and work place disputes. She is the
coaching firm and a mental health specialist a president of a nonprofit that mentors at risk
community court program in Dallas. She authored individuals and has taught many classes for this
Walking Through the Fog Holding on to Hope When organization. She has a Bachelor of Art from the
You Can’t See the Sun and It’s OK to Take a Break: University of Kansas in Science and a Master
52 Tips on Self Care and Mental Wellness. Dr. Certificate in Conflict Resolution from Abilene
Guillory has taught at 4 universities, founded many Christian University.
community initiatives, and has worked in mental
health for over 15 years. She earned her bachelor’s Patty Wenetschla eger, J.D.
degree in psychology from TCU, and Masters and Adjunct Professor teaching advanced mediation at
PhD in Social work from the University of Texas at Abilene Christian University’s Masters Degree
Arlington. She is a sought-after national speaker Program in Dispute Resolution. She also taught for
and professional development trainer who uses her Strauss Institute at Pepperdine’s School of Law. She
own life experiences, contagious enthusiasm, is licensed to practice law in Texas. She received her
dance, and a touch of humor to motivate, challenge Juris Doctor along with a Master of Dispute
and inspire. Resolution from the Strauss Institute at Pepperdine
University. She received a Master of Science in
Clinical Psychology from Abilene Christian University.
Ton y Barker
Professional TEDX speaker specializing in
transformational thinking a school to workplace,
employee to management, military to civilian
employment and conflict to wellness. He has a black
belt and has instructed hundreds of students in self-
defense. He is the owner and speaker of Martial Arts
in the Workplace, a youth employment preparation
seminar for high school and college students. He is
also an award-winning singer, songwriter, and
producer.
Brandon Logan, J .D., Ph.D.
Brandon Logan is the Executive Director of 2INgage, the
Single Source Continuum Contractor (SSCC) for
Community Based Care in Region 2. Dr. Logan has
practiced as an attorney and child welfare law specialist in
Abilene and Lubbock.
Sherrel Mathew s, LMSW
Sherrel Mathews is the Director of Transitional Services
Anthony Burke, MA for 2INgage. She has spent 45 years in child welfare
Public Information Officer including, most recently, as the Regional Director in
Region 2 for the Department of Family and Protective
2616 S. Clack St Services.
Abilene, TX 79606
(325) 690-5105 Randy Neff, M.Ed
Randy Neff is the Director of Community Engagement for
Crisis Line: 1 (800) 758-3344 2INgage. Mr. Neff has over 16 years’ experience in child
welfare including, most recently, as the Program
Administrator in Region 2 for Child Protective Services.
10Presenters
Thursda y, March 21, 2019
Meghan Zuraw J.D.
Meghan received her Bachelor of Arts in Psychology
from Creighton University and is an honors graduate
of The University of Texas School of Law. Meghan
has lived as a service volunteer in the campos of the
Dominican Republic, worked as a counselor at a
juvenile detention center, lived on an orphanage in
Honduras as the social worker, and served as the
attorney ad litem for kids in child abuse and neglect
cases. Meghan brings her expertise in working with
endangered and exploited youth to the National
Center for Missing & Exploited Children by providing
prevention and training resources.
Wende Hilsenrod, M A
Wende Hilsenrod works as a Training Specialist for
Texas Association Against Sexual Assault since
1993. She travels across Texas helping
communities understand impact of abuse on
survivors. Wende’s career began as an Advocate
on The Family Violence Protection Team in Austin, 400 Oak Street, Ste. 216;
with emphasis on the importance of working with the Abilene, Texas 79602
entire family and community. She has guest Ofc. 325.677.6448
lectured at Texas State University School of www .bigcountryc asa.org
Forensic Sciences, trained at State and National
Conferences, and in Mexico. Wende is a member of
Central Texas Coalition Against Human Trafficking,
Texas’ Office of the Attorney General Human
Trafficking Task Force, and TDCJ-TVAT Academy.
Her education includes B.S. in Communication
Sciences and Disorders, B.S. in Psychology, and
M.A. in Human Services.
Brian Baxter Rich Capadagli, LPC
Major Brian Baxter is a 25 year veteran of the Texas Rich Capodagli, M.Ed., LPC-S, has more than 20
Department of Public Safety. Brian has served as years’ experience working with families and
a patrol trooper, SWAT team member, narcotics children. Prior to earning his Master’s Degree in
agent, and Criminal Investigations district Education (Counseling) at Texas Tech University,
commander. Brian is a combat infantry veteran of Rich worked within the foster care system as a
the Texas Army National Guard, having served direct care staff in shelter, residential group care
during Operation Iraqi Freedom. Brian began and residential treatment settings. Rich has worked
investigating Human Trafficking in 2011. Brian in assessment and crisis stabilization with
authored the current Texas DPS Human Trafficking community mental health system. He has
investigation SOP and served as the Department’s extensive administrative experience in the foster
Human Trafficking coordinator until 2017. Brian care system including as a supervisor and clinical
has served on the Texas Human Trafficking director. Rich has most recently worked with
Prevention Task Force and is a member of the Cenpatico as a Clinical Supervisor and currently as
International Association of Human Trafficking a Senior Trainer.
Investigators.
11An n M ari e Wil l oughb y, RN, S AN E Zach Miller, LMFT - A
A registered nurse with over 16 years of Zachary Miller is a Licensed Marriage and
experience. Previously worked as a midwife Family Therapist Associate in Texas. He also
caring for patients prenatal, intranatal and has a Master's in Marriage and Family Therapy
postnatal. Ann Marie has presented at Crimes from Abilene Christian University. Zach has
Against Children and International Association previous experience working in the LMHA
of Forensic Nurses Conferences (2017) on the system and currently works providing skills
topic of Interfamilial sexual abuse. She training services to foster children. He also
interned as a journal reviewer for a behavioral has a humanistic and strengths-based
science journal, reviewed abstracts for the approach to working with children and adults
International Association of Forensic Nurses where he believes that children always have
2018 conference, and is currently writing a value and can always improve.
paper on the impact of abuse in adults who
suffered abuse as children. Ann Marie loves April Conw a y, LCP AA
teaching, but maintains her passion for
April Conway is Program Coordinator for Pathways
nursing. She has embraced her passion and
Youth and Family Services in Abilene. She has
love by becoming the Nurse educator at
worked in the Child Welfare field 12 years this fall.
Hendrick Rehab. She became a Sexual
She is a Licensed Child Placing Agency
Assault Nurse Examiner Nurse in 2015. Ann
Administrator with a Bachelor’s degree in Family
Marie recently completed her Doctorate in
Studies from Lubbock Christian University. April
Nursing May 2018.
has a passion for serving at-risk children and
families in the community. Recently nominated for
Enedel i a Jessup ( E J) , M SW, LBSW “40 under 40”, a selection of individuals under the
EJ graduated from Abilene Christian University age of 40 who are making a difference in Brown
in 1995 with a Bachelor of Science degree in County. April and her husband, Nolan, previously
Social Work. She has worked at Hendrick fostered children in their home for 5 years and have
Health System for 21 years starting in Case three adopted children. The couple was selected as
Management, 6 years, where she worked in Angels in Adoption honorees by the Congressional
various units throughout the hospital and Coalition on Adoption Institute (CCAI) in 2016 for
currently at Hendrick Center for Rehabilitation, demonstrating a commitment to improving the lives
15 years. She just recently finished her Master of children in need of permanent, loving homes.
in Social Work degree from Abilene Christian
University in May 2018. She is also a mentor M e l i s s a H o l m a n s , L C D C , C AR T , C C T P
and supervisor for social work interns at Hardin Melissa Holmans is a Licensed Chemical
Simmons University as well as Abilene Dependency Counselor (LCDC), Certified Anger
Christian University. Resolution Therapist (CART) and Certified Clinical
Trauma Professional (CCTP) with over 20 years’
experience serving the Abilene community. She is
experienced in working with all types of addictions
(drugs/alcohol, gambling, sex/love, self-harm,
Kaplan Early Learning Co. eating disorders and co-dependency), co-occurring
disorders (depression, anxiety, bipolar,
Shawna Tiner schizophrenia) along with experience in
PTSD/trauma informed care and helping victims of
(817) 202-5793 domestic violence. She is a mother of 2 girls and is
www.kaplanco.com a huge advocate for both children and animals. Her
motto and passion is “being the voice for the
Early childhood learning voiceless.”
materials, including social-
V. Danette Jackson , LCSW
emotional resources V. Danette Jackson is a Licensed Clinical Social
Worker with 20-years’ experience in the field of
Child abuse/neglect and Domestic Violence. She
has worked for Child Protective Services, with
children and adults diagnosed with special needs
and currently is the Alternate FAO for Family
Advocacy at DAFB. She also is a Sociology
Instructor for McMurry University.
12Darrin Cox, BSW Zapata County Sheriff's Office. He has eight
Darrin Cox graduated with a BSW in 1989 from years working with the DFPS and has worked
Abilene Christian University. In 1988, he began and supervised thousands of cases involving
his career as a Juvenile Probation Officer at abuse and neglect. Marshall has supervised
the Juvenile Probation Department of Taylor just over 250 Special Investigators and 26
County. During his internship he was hired to Program Directors across Texas. He currently
begin the Intensive Supervision Probation supervisors two Regions from Fort Worth to
Program. In 1993, Darrin began working for Austin. He has been recognized numerous
the Abilene Independent School District (AISD) times for his child advocacy work.
as a Truant Officer. He worked several years
developing programs to increase student
attendance. Feeling almost to the point of burn
out he was able to take a new job as the AISD
Homeless /Foster Care Liaison. In his second
year as the homeless liaison, Darrin helps
students with all their needs from clothing to
school supplies. One of his main goals this
year is to educate the community on the rising
number of homeless students identified in
AISD. Another goal is to make AISD a
welcoming school district to those in need.
Darrin has been successful with putting
together a clothing closet, school supplies
closet, and meeting his goal of getting the word
out across the community of Abilene.
National Association of Social Workers,
And y Meiron
West Central Texas Branch
Andy Meiron is a Program Director with the
Diana Hall, Branch Chair
Investigations Division of the Department and
Family and Protective Services (DFPS). He I325) 201-0496
has worked with DFPS for 16 years as an wctbranchr2@gmail.com
investigator, supervisor, conservatorship
supervisor, and is currently a program director
in the Big Country. He has received numerous Justin Whitele y, M A
awards both locally and statewide for his
commitment and dedication to the protection of Justin graduated from ACU with a bachelor’s
children. He is a pprevious recipient of the degree in Youth and Family Ministry, and
Champion for Children award, recognized by Masters of Science degree in Christian
the Texas House of Representatives with HR Ministry. Justin has 22 years of experience
2050, Honor by the Texas Child Welfare Board working with youth. His experience includes 17
as CPS Leader of the year and received the years with the City of Abilene recreational
Commissioners Award of Excellent. Prior to management, developing community
joining DFPS, Andy worked with the Juvenile programming that positively impacted low
Probation Department and a residential income communities. The last five years Justin
treatment center. He has spent 32 years has been with Communities In Schools of the
advocating for children and families. He is an Big Country helping impact at-risk youth in the
advocate for protecting children and holding schools we serve.
caregivers accountable for abuse and neglect
towards their children. He understands the Sarah McClean, MSW
importance of families and is dedicated in helping
Sarah graduated from ACU with a Master of
not only the children but the families he serves.
Science degree in social work in 2016. Prior to
completing her education, Sarah worked with
Marshall Da vidon children in a transitional living center in
Marshall Davidson is a Special Investigations Houston, Texas before teaching middle school
Program Administrator with the Department of math and science for 4 additional years. Since
Family and Protective Services (DFPS). He is receiving my social work education, I have
a Master Peace Officer with 15 years of law worked with Communities In Schools of the Big
enforcement experience, a TCOLE instructor Country as a program support specialist
and currently holds a reserve license with the
13Scott Bird, Lieute nant felony jury trials which include multiple capital
murder trials, murder, attempted capital
Scott Bird began his law enforcement career in murder, solicitation to commit capital murder,
1998 with the Brownwood Police Department. Bird continuous sexual abuse of a child, aggravated
then began working on patrol for the Brown County sexual assault of a child, injury to a child, as
Sheriff’s Office in 2002. In 2010, he was promoted well as many other types of crimes. Mr. Murray
to the Criminal Investigations Division (“CID”) and was the lead prosecutor in the Ryan Riggs
began focusing on all types of crimes against capital murder case.
persons. In 2015, Bird was promoted to Sergeant
and began supervising all of the investigators at the Ste ve Kish SMSgt (Ret)
Sheriff’s Office. Bird has currently been promoted
to Lieutenant and continues to supervise the Mr. Steve Kish is the Domestic Abuse Victim
Investigations Division. Advocate for Dyess AFB. He has worked for
Family Advocacy for over 4 years. Prior to that, he
Vance Hill, Sheriff was prior enlisted for 26 years with his last 8 years
Has been in law enforcement for 32 years. All spent as a First Sergeant. The past 12 years have
but 5years have been in criminal gave him an opportunity to help numerous families
investigations. Has held positions with that have been victims of Domestic Violence. His
Gatesville PD, Brownwood PD, Brown County experience as a First Sergeant brings a valuable
SO-assigned to West Central Texas Interlocal perspective to Family Advocacy and how we can
Crime Task Force and 13 years with Brown collaborate with local agencies to assist Dyess
County DA. In 2010 again Brown County SO. families.
Since that time he has held every rank within
the office and in November 2016 he was sworn
in as Brown County Sheriff. Sheriff Hill has
received thousands of hours of law
enforcement training. He is an expert witness
in fingerprint identification and has been
involved in hundreds of death investigations
and numerous prosecutions of murder and
capital murder.
Michael Murra y, D. A.
Michael B. Murray graduated from University
24 Hour Crisis Line: 325-677-7895. Crisis
of Arkansas law school in 1994, with a Juris
Hotline answered 24/7. Walk-in assistance:
Doctor degree. His work began in 1995 as
Available during business hours: Monday –
assistant district attorney in the35th Judicial
Thursday 8:30 am – 5:00 pm; Friday 8:30 am
District. In 2004, Mr. Murray took over as the
35th District Attorney where he continues to - 12:00 noon. Call the hotline 325-677- 7895
serve today. Mr. Murray has tried over 125 for location. www.regionalvictimcrisiscenter.org
303 South Pioneer Drive | Suite 200 | Abilene, TX 79605
(325) 692-0033
www.DiscoverBCFS.net
1420th Annual Champion for Children Luncheon
Agenda
Lunch Entertainment
The Piano Man
Master of Ceremonies
Chief Stan Standridge
Presentation of Colors
Dyess AFB
Pledge of Allegiance & National Anthem
Chief Stan Standridge
Invocation
Beth Reeves, APD Chaplain
City of Abilene 2019 Proclamation
Mayor Anthony Williams
Recognition of Previous Award Recipients
Recognition of the 2019 Award Recipients
Lindsay Morris
Introduction of Keynote Speaker
Chief Stan Standridge
2019 Keynote Speakers
Beth and Nancy Thomas
Closing Remarks
Chief Stan Standridge
Catering by: Amanda Joy’s Homemade Goodness
15Award Winners
T
The 20th Annual Champion for Children Conference recognizes individuals who are making positive
differences for children in our area. Join us as we honor the often-unsung heroes who dedicate their
professional and personal lives to help our community.
2019 Frontline Champion – Lieutenant Joe Tauer
Lieutenant Joe Tauer served as the Commander of the Abilene Police Department’s Youth Division from August of 2012
until January 2019. During his six-and-a half-year tenure, Lt. Tauer positively impacted the lives of Abilene children by
becoming an advocate for at-risk youth and their families. Lt. Tauer implemented APD’s current policy for investigating
Runaway cases which involve children younger than 14 years old, ensuring every effort is made to find the child before
they fall victim to crime. Lt. Tauer also served on numerous committees which benefit the children in our community, such
as the Champion for Children Conference Planning Committee and assisting the Friends of Safety City Board. Lt. Tauer
also worked to start the tradition of hosting a Fall Festival at Safety City each year. Lt. Tauer worked tirelessly to ensure
the safety of all children, performing “Officer Friendly” and C.R.A.S.E (Civilian Response to Active Shooter Events)
presentations at numerous schools and community forums over the years, thus helping to protect the 21,000 school age
students and citizens of Abilene. Lt. Tauer also started APD’s Trading Card program, where Officer’s photographs are
placed on a baseball-style trading card to give to area youth and thus build relationships between Police and the youth of
Abilene. Lt. JoeLt. Joe Tauer is a true Champion for Children!
2019 Community Champion – Cameron Wiley
Cameron Wiley may not be a local, but has made a huge impact on our community and children. While serving as Tech
Sgt. Through the air force he is always looking for ways to get involved and give back. You may recognize him (no not
because he is 7 feet tall), but because he is puts himself out there. He contributes locally every Monday to Military
Mondays on The Wolf, a local radio station. He was the founder of Operation Read to Me, a program which involves
military members reading to children in our local schools. He is on the board of Day Nursery in Abilene. Most recently he
was appointed to the Abilene Board of Make a Wish, a truly noble cause. He was recently recognized as one of Abilene’s
top 20 under 40. He was quoted as saying “I love it here and truly enjoy fusing myself within the community, meeting
people and being involved is important for me. While our mission is to fly, fight and win, we also represent our service
within the community. When people see us in our uniform off base, we are representatives of the Air Force”.
2019 Heart of the Champion – Angela Sharp
Fear of failure is a strong motivator for this “Heart of the Champion” nominee: Failing the kids in Taylor County foster care
is not an option. Passion for her work as Big Country CASA Executive Director comes from the absolute knowledge that
we are all working for what is in the best interest of the child. Our work, our advocacy, our activism and our collaborative
voices ensure that someday all children will have safe, secure, permanent homes. Overseeing the staff and volunteers who
advocate for children in the CPS system has motivated Angela Sharp to keep working, to do more for children and youth in
Taylor County…as she has done since she was named the first Executive Director of Big Country CASA in September
2015. Starting with 12 volunteers, Angela has played a significant role as that number has grown to 136 volunteers. CASA
has not served all the children in our county, but Angela has been successful in securing ample funds from diverse resources
to keep the local program thriving and, more recently, flourishing. At the close of 2018, Big Country CASA was the fastest-
growing CASA program in the state of Texas. With fierce attention to detail and an unsurpassed integrity, Angela Sharp
has challenged CASA staff and volunteers to be the voice for children in a broken world. She has done this through
challenges and opportunities, with God guiding her each step as she follows his message to “keep your eyes on the
children.” We’re at 403 children…and counting! Angela’s tenure with Big Country CASA came to an official end on March
18, 2019, as she moved with her husband to Sherman. Angela Sharp, you ARE our “Heart of the Champion”!
2019 Child Welfare Champion – Kristie Cholewinski
Many leaders are competent, but few are as remarkable as Kristie Cholewinski. Ms. Cholewinski has served her community
and the children of Taylor County for over 20 years. She is a strong advocate for children and families. She has gone to
great lengths to ensure every child she has worked directly, and indirectly with has a voice that is heard. Ms. Cholewinski
has been an Investigation Supervisor since 2013. During that time, she has done an extraordinary job training staff who
have carried her dedication and commitment forward. While many still work for the agency, others have moved on to be
advocates for children in other roles. While her leadership is not only demonstrative among staff, she is a leader among
leaders. She is a quiet manager who goes above and beyond every day without constant need of recognition or
reassurance. Kristie remains calm under extreme pressure and when the situation is dire, she rises to the occasion.
16Champion for Children 2019 Committee
Champion for Children
P.O. Box 6661
Abilene, Texas 79608
www.championforchildren.net
c4cabilenetx@gmail.com
Lori Bunton - Regional Victim Crisis Center Carley Martinez - Noah Project
Melissa Milliorn - Hardin-Simmons University Megan Harbin - Methodist Children’s Home
Diana Hall - C4C Program Sub-Committee Chair LaKiesha White - ARCADA
Janna Atkins - West Central Texas Council of Crystal Leake - New Horizons
Governments Alice DeLaGarza - New Horizons
Donald Dolton - Pathways Susie Striegler RN - Hendrick Health Services
Melanie Copeland - Zarrow Foundation Pam Sites - Abilene Convention & Visitors Bureau
Lindsay Poyner - TX Dept. of Family and Protective Sandra Shirley – Big Country CASA
Services Lauren Anderson – Big Country CASA
Mia Parker - TX Dept. of Family and Protective Services Stephanie Ellison - Photography
Rosa Rodriguez - Region XIV Education Service Center Samantha Manske - Mental Health America Abilene
Det. Erin Bennett - Abilene Police Department Alana Jeter - Baptist Children and Families
Lt. Tony Lassetter - Abilene Police Department Marla Polk - Resolution Solutions
John Graham - Taylor County Sheriff’s Office Chris Daughtery - From Boys to Gentlemen
Brandi Duell - Noah Project Justin Whitely - Communities in Schools
17Thank you to our Sponsors
Visit our website http://championforchildren.net/sponsorship/ for
more sponsor information
Tiffany Craig
Independent Scentsy Consultant
www.tiffscandles@scentsy.us
(325) 669-2455
Taylor County Child Welfare
Board
3610 Vine St
Abilene, TX 79602
(325) 428-7964
www.taylorcocwb.com
18Conference Evaluation Form
We are continuously working to make this conference better. We need your help.
Please fill out this evaluation by rating your overall satisfaction with:
Very Very
Satisfied Unsatisfied Unsatisfied
1. Registration process
A. On-line
B. On Site
2. Format of the conference
A. During the Week vs Friday/Saturday
B. Session Schedule
C. Break Schedule (Did you have enough time
to visit exhibitors, socialize, get a snack?
3. Exhibits and Booths
4. Luncheon/ Awards
5. Social
6. Facilities (Space, ease of finding rooms,
restrooms, etc.)
7. Please rate your overall satisfaction with the
location of the conference (Convention Center
Downtown, Abilene, Texas, hotels,
restaurants)
8. Website (easy to find information, register,
plan)
9. Overall, based on your total experience of the
conference, will you attend or recommend
someone else to attend next year’s
conference?
Please provide any comments you have on future conference locations, topics, speakers or
general suggestions regarding the conference:
________________________________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________________________________
Please note: to obtain CEU Certificate attendees will need to complete the Presenter Survey
that will be emailed to the address provided for conference registration. It is the attendee’s
responsibility to ensure that Champions for Children staff have the appropriate email
address. Surveys will be sent out during the conference, attendees have 30 days from receipt
to complete the surveys to claim CEUs.
19Convention Center Layout
Parking Lot
CC4
CC1
Registration and Booths
201/2
20You can also read
