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Welcome to the 4th Annual Guardify Awards!

Each year during National Forensic Interviewers Week, we celebrate the individuals whose compassion, leadership, and dedication drive healing and justice forward. These awards honor the professionals—both within and beyond the CAC—who make an enduring impact in the lives of children and survivors across the country.

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Nominate for the Guardify Awards

Forensic Interviewer of the Year

Recognizes and celebrates excellence within the field of forensic interviewing, showcases the achievement of an exceptional professional, and highlights the interviewer’s contribution to the field.

Child Advocacy Leader

Honors a child advocacy center employee who has demonstrated exceptional leadership and commitment over the past year. Any current center employee is eligible for nomination.

Child Advocacy Partner of the Year

Honors and acknowledges Multidisciplinary Team (MDT) members beyond the Child Advocacy Center (CAC), who have demonstrated exceptional dedication in furthering the objectives of justice and healing. Eligible recipients encompass professionals from various fields, such as child protection, law enforcement, prosecution, medicine, mental health, or any other constituent of the MDT.

Champion for Children

Recognizes individuals who tirelessly advocate for policy changes benefiting survivors, particularly children, championing their rights and well-being. Eligible recipients engage in various activities, from lobbying for legislative reforms to providing direct support services. Their relentless efforts aim to address systemic barriers and empower survivors, amplifying their voices and fostering positive change within society.

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Mark Your Calendar with these Key Dates

June 2, 2025

Nomination Form Opens

June 13, 2025

Nominations Closed

July 7- July 11, 2025

Winners Announced

Get Inspired by these Winners from Past Years

Forensic Interviewer of the Year

Rachel Mitchell

Hunt County Children’s Advocacy Center, TX

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Child Advocacy Leader Award

Brittany Brooks

Barren River CAC, KY

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Champion for Children Award

Regina Dismuke

Hero House CAC, GA

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Child Advocacy Partner of the Year

Nick Hefner

Haywood County Sheriff’s Department, NC

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Forensic Interviewer of the Year

Sue Counts

CAC of Butler County

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Forensic Interviewer of the Year

Challye Nunn

Blount County CAC

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Child Advocacy Leader Award

Crystal Richardson

CAC for Rockwall County

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Champion for Children Award

Kim Mangiaracino

Children’s Advocacy Centers of Illinois

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Child Advocacy Partner of the Year

Nicole Buermann

Assistant Prosecutor of Essex County, NJ

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Forensic Interviewer of the Year

Shy Watters, ED

Warren Washington CARE Center, NY

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Child Advocacy Leader Award

Lindsay Pack

Child Protect of Mercer Co, WV

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Champion for Children Award

Captain Sean Norman

Wells Township PD, Brilliant, OH

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Child Advocacy Partner of the Year

Detective Denise Gomez

Richmond PD, TX

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2024 Awards
Ceremony

Frequently Asked Questions

All nominations must be submitted by Friday, June 13, 2025.

Any staff member from a Child Advocacy Center (CAC) or partner organization is welcome to submit nominations. We encourage individuals to recognize those whose contributions have made a meaningful impact over the past year.
Yes. You may submit nominations for multiple individuals across different award categories—or nominate more than one individual within the same category, if applicable.
  • Forensic Interviewer of the Year Award
    Celebrates excellence in forensic interviewing and honors a professional whose work exemplifies best practices and outstanding contributions to the field.
  • Child Advocacy Leader Award
    Recognizes a CAC employee who has demonstrated exceptional leadership and unwavering commitment to child advocacy in the past year.
  • Child Advocacy Partner of the Year Award
    Honors MDT members outside of the CAC who show extraordinary dedication to justice and healing. Eligible professionals may include those in child protection, law enforcement, prosecution, medicine, mental health, and other related fields.
  • Champion for Children Award
    Acknowledges individuals working to advance systemic change for survivors—especially children—through advocacy, policy reform, or direct support services.

Each award has its own eligibility criteria:

  • Forensic Interviewer of the Year: Any professional conducting forensic interviews.
  • Child Advocacy Leader: Any current employee of a Child Advocacy Center.
  • Partner of the Year: Any MDT professional outside the CAC structure.
  • Champion for Children: Individuals involved in advocacy or systemic change efforts on behalf of survivors.
Nominations are reviewed by a selection committee composed of professionals in child advocacy, forensic interviewing, and multidisciplinary collaboration. Finalists are chosen based on the strength of the nomination, impact of their work, and alignment with the spirit of each award.

A strong nomination includes:

  • A clear description of the nominee’s contributions
  • Specific examples of their impact
  • Any relevant outcomes or accomplishments
  • A statement on how they embody the spirit of the award

Award recipients will be publicly announced during National Forensic Interview Week – July 7-11, 2025, with celebrations taking place across our platforms and through local center spotlights.

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Rachel Mitchell, Children’s Advocacy Center, Hunt County, TX

2024 Forensic Interviewer of the Year

Rachel Mitchell is an exceptional forensic interviewer whose dedication, skill, and compassion have made a lasting impact on countless children and families. Performing over 50 interviews most months, Rachel approaches each child with intentionality, empathy, and professionalism, creating a safe environment for disclosure. Her deep knowledge of child maltreatment, grooming, and disclosure dynamics drives her commitment to ongoing training and best practices.

A tireless advocate, Rachel supports not only her center but others in need, offering on-call services across jurisdictions to ensure every child receives high-quality care. She plays a vital role in her multidisciplinary team, strengthening collaboration and adapting practices to meet children’s needs. Her patience, organization, and insight are unmatched.

Rachel’s work has led to multiple felony convictions, including a pivotal case where her interview clarified a child’s previously ambiguous disclosure, enabling prosecution and securing the child’s safety and justice.

Born and raised in Hunt County, Rachel is deeply invested in her community, dedicating volunteer hours to fundraising and prevention efforts. She exemplifies the mission of Children’s Advocacy Centers and continues to be a cornerstone of healing and justice for child victims.

Brittany Brooks, Barren River CAC, KY

2024 Child Advocacy Leader Award

For over six years, Brittany Brooks has been a steadfast child advocate at the Barren River Area Child Advocacy Center, known for her unwavering commitment and compassionate presence. She meets children where they are, offering stability, trust, and a safe space during their most vulnerable moments. Her work extends beyond typical hours, as she consistently responds to after-hours cases with dedication and care.

Brittany’s advocacy goes beyond the child, supporting caregivers and recognizing their vital role in a child’s healing. She empowers children to rediscover their voices, walking with them step by step toward resilience. Brittany shies away from recognition, believing the focus should always remain on the child.

Her impact is best illustrated through action—like ensuring a family devastated by abuse didn’t go without Christmas gifts, and continuing support for a survivor well into adulthood, even sitting beside her in court as she testified against her abuser. Brittany’s servant heart and tireless advocacy provide hope, healing, and lifelong strength to the children she serves.

Regina Dismuke, Hero House CAC, GA

2024 Champion for Children Award

Regina has dedicated her life to helping children. She spent the majority of her career working for the Georgia Department of Family and Children Services, serving in all different types of roles from child abuse investigator to director. Upon retirement she became the director of the fledgling Hero House CAC, serving children in Colquitt County, Georgia, and the surrounding counties. The CAC was woefully underfunded, had almost no facilities, and needed serious updating of equipment. Through her leadership, and her love of children, she, along with a board of directors who stand solidly behind her, have made the Hero House a true gem of service in our community.

We are currently constructing  more soundproof room to be able to hear the child victims testimony. Future plans are to construct an entire new center. She has earned the respect of her peers, and is a trusted resource for the prosecution community. She goes above and beyond the call of duty, each and every day. She has helped hundreds of children, and families, in our community. She coordinates the toy drive every year that makes sure children of abuse have a good Christmas. She is a true servant at heart and a fierce protector of abused children.

Nick Hefner, Haywood County Sheriff’s Department, NC

2024 Child Advocacy Partner of the Year

Detective Nick Hefner has made a profound impact in less than five years as a special investigator, demonstrating unwavering dedication to justice and healing for children. Volunteering for a role many shy away from due to its emotional toll, he has become a strong advocate for child victims and the local child advocacy center. Known for his compassion, commitment, and collaboration, Hefner regularly checks in with staff, mentors new deputies, and actively seeks guidance from experienced professionals to better serve families.
Currently handling three high-stakes cases with potential life sentences, Detective Hefner is a meticulous investigator who prioritizes corroborative evidence and teamwork. His empathy shines through in how he supports victims—taking extra steps to ease children’s fears, such as walking one child around the jail to show the alleged offender couldn’t escape, and spending over an hour reassuring another about the justice process.
Detective Hefner’s tireless pursuit of justice, his ability to bring hope in difficult circumstances, and his deep commitment to the wellbeing of children make him an outstanding recipient of this award.

Sue Counts, Butler County, PA

2023 Forensic Interviewer of the Year

With over 30 years in child advocacy, Sue Counts has devoted her life to protecting and empowering vulnerable children. Drawing from her experience as a foster mother, Sue spent 23 years as a Child Protective Services caseworker before briefly retiring—only to return and establish the Child Advocacy Center in Butler County, PA.

As the center’s founding force and sole forensic interviewer, Sue has handled 250–300 cases annually, also providing advocacy, court support, and guidance with victim impact statements. She developed vital procedures that prevent children from falling through the cracks, setting a high standard for forensic interview services in the region.

Sue’s humility, tireless work ethic, and deep compassion have shaped a culture of dignity and care for children and families in Butler County and beyond. She has never sought recognition—only to serve with excellence and integrity.

Now preparing for a second retirement, Sue leaves a powerful legacy in the CAC/MDT movement. Her life’s work has transformed a community and inspired all who have had the honor of working beside her.

Challye Nunn, New Hope Children’s Advocacy Center, Blount County, TN

2023 Forensic Interviewer of the Year

Challye Nunn exemplifies compassion, resilience, and leadership in her role as Director of Forensic Interview Services at New Hope Children’s Advocacy Center. When the center’s long-time Director was suddenly unable to work due to a serious illness, Challye stepped up without hesitation. Despite being part-time and already juggling multiple roles, she became the sole forensic interviewer for eight months—conducting 310 interviews, including 39 after-hours, all while grieving the loss of her mentor.

Her dedication meant canceling vacations, working through illness, and putting children’s safety above all else. Challye’s calm, caring approach helps children disclose their experiences with trust and dignity.

Now leading the forensic services team, she has trained new staff and continues to ensure every child receives the care and advocacy they deserve. Challye’s unwavering commitment and strength have not only held her center together through hardship, but have also ensured a legacy of excellence and compassion continues for the children of Blount County.

Crystal Richardson, Children’s Advocacy Center for Rockwall County, TX

2023 Child Advocacy Leader of the Year

Crystal Richardson has been a driving force behind the development and success of the Children’s Advocacy Center for Rockwall County since its founding in 2018. With a background that spans roles including MDT Coordinator, Family Advocate, Forensic Interviewer, and Data Analyst, Crystal brings unmatched versatility and insight to her work.

For the past five years, she has been instrumental in building and strengthening the county’s Multidisciplinary Team (MDT), fostering collaboration among partners, and establishing vital protocols and communication strategies. As chair of the Adherence Committee, she helps guide interagency coordination and team-building across all levels of leadership.

Crystal also leads the county’s response to Commercially Sexually Exploited Youth (CSEY), assembling a team to deliver coordinated services to this highly vulnerable population. Her expertise in data analysis drives strategic planning and supports grant reporting, making her a cornerstone of both operations and program development.

Known for her integrity, professionalism, and unwavering commitment to child-centered outcomes, Crystal’s leadership has transformed systems and lives in Rockwall County. Her work is a powerful example of how one person’s vision and dedication can create lasting, meaningful impact.

Kim Mangiaracino, Executive Director, Children’s Advocacy Centers of Illinois

2023 Champion for Children

Kim Mangiaracino has been a driving force for child advocacy across Illinois. As Executive Director of the Children’s Advocacy Centers of Illinois, she has united and supported CACs statewide with tireless dedication and passion.

Facing significant federal funding cuts, Kim led a successful effort to secure increased state funding, working closely with the Task Force on CAC and CASA Funding. Her advocacy resulted in a nearly 66% funding increase—$3.7 million—ensuring that all 41 CACs in Illinois can continue providing essential services to children healing from abuse.

Kim’s efforts go far beyond budget negotiations. Her leadership has strengthened the foundation of child advocacy throughout the state, setting a standard of equity, collaboration, and resilience. Thousands of children and families will benefit from her work, receiving the care and support they need during their most vulnerable moments.

Through her unwavering commitment, Kim has made a lasting impact on Illinois’ child protection efforts. Her work reminds us that behind every funding victory and policy change are real children whose lives are forever changed by access to compassionate, effective care.

Nicole Buermann, Assistant Prosecutor, Essex County, NJ

2023 Child Advocacy Partner of the Year

For 16 years, Assistant Prosecutor Nicole Buermann has been a powerful force for justice in Essex County, New Jersey. As a member of the Special Victims Unit, she takes on some of the most difficult and emotionally taxing cases, including all human trafficking prosecutions in her jurisdiction.

Nicole works cases from the very beginning, collaborating closely with investigators to ensure no detail is overlooked. Her relentless pursuit of justice has led to convictions in some of the most severe child sexual assault cases, including a recent case resulting in 26 guilty counts and a 106-year prison sentence for the offender.

Known for her tenacity, fearlessness, and deep compassion for victims, Nicole is a cornerstone of her multidisciplinary team. Despite the emotional weight of her work, she remains steadfast in her commitment to every child and family she serves. Her MDT describes her as “the best champion you can have in your corner.”

Nicole Buermann’s unwavering dedication and fierce advocacy continue to make a life-changing difference for victims and a lasting impact on her community.

Shy Watters, Warren Washington CARE Center, Glens Falls, NY

2022 Forensic Interviewer of the Year

Known as “The Closer,” Shy Watters is a forensic interviewer with an exceptional success rate, especially in difficult cases—remarkable given the CARE Center’s staff of just two. Her ability to connect with children, build trust, and communicate sensitively about traumatic experiences is unmatched.

In one case, Shy and a colleague interviewed numerous children abused by a daycare worker, leading to a guilty plea. In another ongoing case, her skillful interviewing helped a fearful 7-year-old disclose repeated abuse by her mother’s boyfriend and additional crimes against other children. The child now feels safe and is thriving in a loving foster home.

From her nomination: “Shy is an amazing partner to law enforcement, child protective services, and victim advocates. She has made the CARE Center welcoming for children and families, offering access even at unusual hours. Shy is a true asset and embodies advocacy for the children of our area.”

Lindsay Pack, Child Protect of Mercer County, WV

2022 Child Advocacy Leader

Lindsay Pack serves as the MDT Facilitator, therapist, and direct services coordinator at Child Protect of Mercer County, West Virginia. She brings a valuable mental health lens to every case review, a strength highlighted during a recent Re-Accreditation Site Visit, where reviewers praised her facilitation and holistic approach.

Lindsay is currently deepening her leadership skills through the Southern Regional CAC’s Facilitative Leadership Learning Collaborative, learning new strategies to elevate team performance and engagement. Her dedication goes beyond meetings—when a local officer was overwhelmed by a complex case involving ten children, Lindsay spent the entire day helping with reports, hotline calls, and interview coordination.

Her creativity with clients also shines—this summer, she used sidewalk chalk and outdoor activities to support children’s healing, encouraging them to leave uplifting messages for others.

From her nomination: “Lindsay is a mentor, teacher, support, advocate, and friend to everyone. She’s an amazing team player who will jump in and conquer any task that needs to be accomplished.”

Lindsay’s compassion, leadership, and commitment to both justice and healing make her an indispensable part of the team and a true advocate for children and families.

Captain Sean Norman, Wells Township Police Department, OH

2022 Champion for Children

Captain Sean Norman of the Wells Township Police Department has spent many years in law enforcement and just as many supporting A Caring Place, donating his time and resources to the cause. His commitment to children extends well beyond his official duties—he volunteers as a girls’ softball coach and serves as the local D.A.R.E. officer in area schools.

Captain Norman is also the driving force behind the Wells Township Haunted House, a nationally recognized attraction named the top haunted house in Ohio by The Scare Factor. For the past 15 years, he has led this initiative, bringing together teens and law enforcement to create a safe, inclusive space. The proceeds fund scholarships for student volunteers and support activities like band camps and athletic programs.

From his nomination: “Sean always says, ‘I’ve created this space for the kids who may think they’re outsiders, or have no place they belong. They belong here and we always welcome them with open arms.’”

Captain Norman’s creative leadership and deep compassion have made a lasting impact on the young people of his community, offering both opportunity and belonging.

Detective Denise Ledesma-Gomez, Raymondville Police Department, TX

2022 Child Advocacy Partner of the Year

Detective Denise Ledesma-Gomez is the sole Sex Crimes Detective at the Raymondville Police Department in Texas, carrying a caseload comparable to those in larger cities. She also serves as a Task Force Officer with the Rio Grande Valley Child Exploitation Investigations Task Force, led by Homeland Security Investigations.

Dedicated to protecting children from abuse, she investigates crimes at the local, state, and federal levels while also serving as President of the Advisory Board for the Cameron County CAC. Since 2017, her investigations have led to multiple high-profile convictions, including lengthy sentences for two State of Texas Corrections Officers convicted of sexually assaulting minors and producing child pornography.

In addition to her law enforcement work, Detective Ledesma-Gomez is an active advocate for victims of family violence and women’s rights. She balances her demanding career with her roles as a wife, mother of four, and community leader.

From her nomination: “Detective Ledesma-Gomez is a humble consummate professional, loyal friend, and loving wife, driven by her passion for justice for victims in her community.”

Her tireless work and unwavering commitment make her a powerful force for justice and healing in the Rio Grande Valley.