Celebrating Champions: SMART Awards Honor Leaders in Youth Mental Health

The SMART Mental Health Impact Awards shone a spotlight on outstanding individuals and organizations dedicated to improving youth mental health across Western New York. Presented during the SMART Youth Mental Health Summit, these awards honored those whose commitment and innovation continue to drive meaningful change for young people in the region. By showcasing the honorees’ creativity and compassion, the awards emphasized the importance of community collaboration as a cornerstone to build a brighter, healthier future for youth. Through this recognition, SMART continued its mission to empower, connect, and celebrate those making a lasting difference in the lives of young people.

Kayla DeLeon, Hamburg CSD

Kayla DeLeon received the "Journalist: Highlighted Work in the Field" award at the inaugural SMART Mental Health Youth Summit. She was recognized for her outstanding and creative communication initiatives, which played a pivotal role in fostering a culture of openness and support around youth mental health within the Hamburg community. Through her dedication and innovative approach to storytelling, she empowered young people to share their experiences while strengthening connections among families, educators, and peers. Kayla’s work not only raised awareness but also inspired others to join the conversation, making her a true leader in advancing mental health advocacy for Western New York’s youth.

Dr. Anna Ball, University at Buffalo School of Social Work

Dr. Anna Ball received the "Higher Education Professional Impact and Leadership" award for her remarkable commitment to advancing youth mental health in Western New York. As a dedicated educator and mental health advocate, Dr. Ball implemented innovative programs that supported both students and staff, fostering a safe and inclusive environment for growth and healing. Her leadership inspired collaboration among schools, families, and community organizations, empowering young people to seek help and embrace wellness. Dr. Ball’s visionary work continues to set a powerful example, driving lasting positive change in the region’s approach to youth mental health.

Mental Health Advocates of Western New York (MHAWNY)

Mental Health Advocates of Western New York (MHAWNY) was honored with the SMART Mental Health Impact “Organization” award for its ongoing commitment to supporting youth mental health throughout the region. MHAWNY has provided essential resources, education, and advocacy for young people, families, and educators, ensuring that mental health needs are met with compassion and expertise. Through collaborative partnerships and innovative programming, the organization has empowered youth to navigate challenges, seek help, and build resilience. MHAWNY’s dedication to reducing stigma and promoting wellness has created a lasting, positive change, making it a vital force in advancing youth mental health in Western New York.

Anne Nowak, Sweet Home CSD

Anne Nowak received the "P–12 Professional Impact and Leadership" award for her dedicated work at Sweet Home Central School District and her broad support of districts throughout Western New York. She has played an instrumental role in developing and implementing mental health initiatives that benefited not only her own school community but also neighboring districts. Her collaborative spirit and expertise helped foster environments where students felt safe, supported, and empowered to seek help. By sharing resources and best practices with fellow educators, Anne amplified her positive impact, advancing youth mental health across the region.

Marie Sly, Erie County Office of Mental Health

Marie Sly received the "Government/Policy Advocate" award in recognition of her steadfast commitment to improving children’s access to mental health care in Erie County. Her work has focused on strengthening essential systems, simplifying referral pathways, and enhancing communication between agencies to create a more compassionate and predictable experience for children and families. Marie’s unwavering dedication to keeping the child at the center of every decision earned her the respect and gratitude of providers, even as she navigated state reforms and challenging times. Though much of her impact is behind the scenes, her efforts ensure that vulnerable youth receive the care and advocacy they deserve, shaping the mental health landscape for families throughout the region.

Mike Cornell, Hilbert College

Mike Cornell received the "Community Champion" award for his visionary leadership and unwavering commitment to fostering regional collaboration in support of youth mental health. Before joining Hilbert College, his pivotal conversations with fellow community leaders helped ignite the creation of the SMART Collaborative, a partnership that continues to strengthen mental health supports across Erie County. With a distinguished career spanning roles as teacher, principal, superintendent, and community ambassador, he has dedicated himself to serving students and building networks that empower schools, agencies, and families. Mike’s passion for collaboration and lifelong advocacy make him a transformative force for positive change, truly embodying the spirit of a community champion.

In Closing

In honoring these outstanding individuals and organizations, the SMART Mental Health Impact Awards highlight the transformative work being done throughout Western New York. The dedication and innovation of these honorees set a standard for supporting youth mental health, which inspires others to continue building compassionate, resilient communities. Together, their efforts remind us that progress in mental health is possible when we uplift others along the way.