PARB Conference Awards Ceremony Set to Celebrate Remarkable Achievements
By Oklahoma Commission on Children and Youth
As anticipation builds for the upcoming Oklahoma Postadjudication Review Board (PARB) Conference, slated to commence on Monday, April 15, 2024, organizers are gearing up to honor individuals who have demonstrated exceptional dedication and service in the field of child welfare. Among the highlights of the event will be the prestigious PARB Hall of Fame Awards, recognizing outstanding contributions from esteemed members of the community.
"The PARB Conference is a time for our members to gather together and share ideas, build relationships and learn how to be more effective advocates. It is a time of hope, renewal and affirmation. PARB’s play a vital role in the deprived court system by ensuring an objective, independent citizen voice, is heard by the court.”- Keith Pirtle, PARB Program Manager at the Oklahoma Commission on Children and Youth
The event will kick off with a warm welcome from Keith Pirtle, setting the stage for a day filled with insightful discussions and celebrations of excellence. Attendees can look forward to hearing from keynote speaker Sarah Herrian, whose address promises to inspire and enlighten.
One of the most anticipated segments of the conference will be the Parent Panel, featuring facilitator Gail Stricklin and esteemed panelists James Ray, Alice Jeffrey, Mitch Sutter, and Mikayla Woods. This engaging discussion will offer valuable insights into the experiences and perspectives of parents involved in the child welfare system.
A highlight of the event will undoubtedly be the presentation of the PARB Hall of Fame Awards, honoring individuals who have made indelible marks on the field of child welfare. This year's inductees include Lee Inbody, Carol Bridges, and Sara Vincent Spain (posthumously), whose exemplary leadership and unwavering dedication have left lasting legacies within the PARB community.
The conference will also feature a Judges Panel, moderated by Dawn Leemon, and comprising esteemed panelists Pat VerSteeg, Laura Farris, Rebecca Gore, Kaitlyn Allen, and Theresa Dreiling. This panel promises to offer valuable insights into the judicial perspective on child welfare issues.
Throughout the day, attendees will have the opportunity to engage in peer discussions facilitated by Keith Pirtle, fostering collaboration and knowledge-sharing among participants. Additionally, Mr. Pirtle will present an overview of the PARB's journey and future direction, providing valuable context for the progam's ongoing efforts to improve outcomes for children and families.
With a diverse lineup of speakers, panel discussions, and networking opportunities, the PARB Conference promises to be a day of inspiration, learning, and celebration. As attendees gather to honor outstanding contributions and explore ways to enhance the welfare of children in Oklahoma, the event serves as a testament to the collective commitment to creating a brighter future for the community's most vulnerable members.