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RCPA understands that it’s important to recognize those in health and human services who go above and beyond in their fields. That’s why, in addition to hosting the many workshops as well as keynote and plenary sessions, we are excited to present the following awards during our Wednesday Association Awards luncheon. RCPA is thrilled to honor and recognize these individuals for their dedicated commitment to health and human services.
Register today to attend the luncheon and more! Contact Carol Ferenz, Conference Coordinator, or RCPA with any questions. We look forward to seeing you at the Hershey Lodge!
Register to Attend the 2024 RCPA Conference! |
The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) has announced the opening of nominations for the inaugural SAMHSA Trailblazers in Advancing Recovery (STAR) Awards. These awards aim to recognize individuals, including youth and family members, with lived experience of mental health and/or substance use conditions for their contributions. Additionally, the awards will honor organizations that have demonstrated a commitment to promoting equitable access to wellness and recovery supports. Nominations can be submitted through the official nomination page. This initiative marks a significant step in acknowledging leaders and organizations dedicated to advancing mental health and substance use recovery efforts.
The Juvenile Court Judges Commission (JCJC) is currently accepting nominations for the 2024 Professional and Youth Award Programs, with the awards ceremony taking place at the James E. Anderson Pennsylvania Conference on Juvenile Justice from November 6–7, 2024, at the Hilton Harrisburg. Professional awards include the Residential Program of the Year, Community-Based Program of the Year, and the Meritorious Service Award for notable service to at-risk youth and advancements in juvenile justice. Youth awards comprise the Outstanding Achievement Award and the Creative Expression Contest, which features categories like Poster, Written (essay, poem, story), and Mixed Media (dance, song, audio, video, photography), themed “The Real Story: My Battle, My Strength.” Nominations are due by July 29, 2024.
For more information or to nominate, visit the JCJC website. You can also contact Angel Stewart at 717-783-7835 or via email, or Keysla Rodriguez at 717-783-6263 or via email.
If you have any other questions, please contact RCPA COO and Policy Director Jim Sharp.
Devereux Advanced Behavioral Health Senior Vice President and Chief Clinical/Medical Officer Yolanda Graham, MD, was recently awarded Distinguished Fellow status by the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry (AACAP).
Distinguished Fellow status is a lifetime designation, and the highest honor bestowed upon members of AACAP who have made significant contributions in the field of child and adolescent psychiatry.
“I am incredibly honored to receive this recognition,” said Dr. Graham, who serves as president-elect of the Regional Council of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry of Eastern Pennsylvania and Southern New Jersey. “I earned Distinguished Fellow status with the American Psychiatric Association years ago, and achieving this prestigious status with AACAP is very meaningful. I join a long list of mentors and colleagues who have paved the way for progress in child and adolescent psychiatry, and I look forward to future opportunities to make a positive difference in the lives of youth and families.”
Supporting those in need
Dr. Graham has dedicated her career to supporting children, adolescents and adults with emotional, behavioral and cognitive differences. She is board certified in general psychiatry and child and adolescent psychiatry, and is an expert in the areas of: mental health, child advocacy, psychotropic medication management, behavioral management, and childhood sexual exploitation and trauma. Her impact is felt every day within the walls of Devereux and beyond.
Look below to read excerpts from (AACAP Distinguished Fellow) letters of recommendation written by colleagues in the field of child and adolescent psychiatry.
“Dr. Graham has been a leader in the field and a continuous contributor to AACAP. … Her career has been dedicated to serving those most in need at the residential level of care. A notable program for which she has been a pioneer and national leader has been the residential programs for youth who have experienced sexual exploitation and trafficking.”
– Tami Benton, M.D., Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia Psychiatrist-in-Chief
“I have known Dr. Graham for many years; we have worked together at Emory University, as well as in other professional activities and organizations. She has positively contributed to the field of child and adolescent psychiatry throughout her career. … Dr. Graham is a national leader and has been instrumental in leadership activities within her institution, as well as working with local, regional, state, national professional and community organizations on clinical, administrative and educational initiatives related to child mental health.”
– Arden Dingle, M.D., University of Nevada, Reno School of Medicine Professor of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences
Learn more about Devereux Advanced Behavioral Health.
RCPA member Elwyn recently announced that two of its staff have earned awards for visionary, exceptional leadership.
First, Elwyn CEO and President Chuck McLister was selected and recognized as a 2023 Philadelphia Titan 100. The Titan 100 award honors the area’s most accomplished and transformative business leaders who demonstrate exceptional leadership, vision, and passion in their industry. You can read more regarding the award here.
In addition, Elwyn Sr. Vice President of Advancement Marguerite Kraftson Fell, CFRE, has been named a 2023 Women of Influence by the Philadelphia Business Journal. The Women of Influence program celebrates the impactful businesswomen shaping Greater Philadelphia.
Congratulations to both!