On Tuesday, June 9th, Judge Irwin swore in 8 new Court Appointed Special Advocates. These eight people chose to step up and train via video conferencing in the middle of a pandemic because they saw a need so great that it couldn’t be ignored. “This training was very unique to us, but it worked out thanks to the flexibility and excitement of each student. They did a great job of studying independently in order to make our valuable time together productive,” said Lauren Herrmann, Volunteer Coordinator.
Newly Sworn in advocates, from left to right: Charlie Dudney, Anna Chandler, Patricia Stephens, Damaris Figueroa, Kim Motter, Karen Ellis, Sarah Segal, Tina Spears
New advocate Sarah Segal had this to say about her experience: “When I interviewed to be a CASA volunteer in February 2020, I had no idea that I would be a member of the first virtually-trained CASA cohort! While it would have been nice to connect in person with my fellow CASAs-in-training, Lauren was very adept in her ability to transfer the course materials to an online presentation medium and we were able to successfully contribute both individually and collectively on coursework. I was unprepared for the wave of emotion that hit me in meeting my cohort today and in standing before the judge for the swearing in; I felt so appreciated, and the weight of my input as a CASA was never more clear to me than in this setting. I am very excited to continue on this journey, with court observations and case assignment, and hope to provide your organization with the diligent service it deserves!”
Welcome, new advocates! We at CASA of East Tennessee are thrilled to have you on board!