Center seeks nominations for annual awards

May 03, 2007

The Center for Applied Behavioral Health Policy (CABHP) at ASU is seeking nominations for its annual Arizona Behavioral Health Awards.<separator></separator>“There are countless individuals who have dedicated themselves to serving the behavioral health industry,” says Michael Shafer, director of CABHP in ASU's College of Human Services. “This is our opportunity to pay tribute to their tremendous commitment and their accomplishments.”<separator></separator>Nominations can be submitted in four categories, and all nominees will be recognized July 19 at the third annual Arizona Behavioral Health Awards Gala at the Sedona Hilton Resort and Conference Center.<separator></separator>“The behavioral health industry continues to grow and produce wonderful success stories, both from the standpoint of practitioners and those who receive their care and attention,” says Shafer, who guided the efforts of the University of Arizona-affiliated Applied Behavioral Health Policy for 15 years before establishing it as a center at ASU last April. “We're interested in the behavioral health specialists who possess and have demonstrated outstanding qualities of compassion, perseverance and dedication to those individuals with behavioral health issues.”<separator></separator>CABHP's “Legacy Award” recognizes an individual in the field of behavioral health services for a distinguished career of leadership and contribution. The 2006 Legacy Award winner was Maurice Miller, chief executive officer of the Northern Arizona Regional Behavioral Health Authority.<separator></separator>The “Cultural Heritage Award” is awarded by CABHP to an individual or agency that has demonstrated a commitment to promoting understanding and celebration of the rich cultural heritage of Arizona, as well as those families affected by behavioral health issues. Last year's Cultural Heritage honoree was Victor Flores, who has devoted nearly two decades to working in the social services field.<separator></separator>The “Leadership in Advocacy Award” acknowledges an individual who has demonstrated leadership in the promotion of legislative or policy initiatives that enhance the behavioral health of Arizonans. Last year's award winner was Charles “Chick” Arnold, plaintiff in the landmark Arnold v. Sarn decision that has led to many improvements in the provision of community-based services to Arizonans with serious mental illness.<separator></separator>CABHP's “Leadership in Services Award” recognizes an individual employed within the behavioral health system who has shown leadership in the provision of evidence-based services and who exemplifies the core values of developing community, promoting communications and learning, and demonstrating compassion for individuals with behavioral health disabilities. The 2006 winner was Christy Dye, whose experience, knowledge and commitment to quality, cost-effective substance abuse, and mental health treatment and prevention have made her a recognized authority nationally.<separator></separator>Nominations must be postmarked no later than May 15. Nominations in more than one category and multiple nominations in a single category are acceptable. Nominations should be sent to: Arizona Behavioral Health Awards, c/o CABHP, College of Human Services, Arizona State University, P.O. Box 37100, Phoenix, AZ, 85069-7100, MC#3252.