Jo Cato Perseverance on Behalf of Children and Families Award
The Jo Cato Perseverance on Behalf of Children and Families Award is given to an individual who has demonstrated significant support of children and families. The award was established in 2000 to honor Jo Cato upon her retirement as head of the Department of Human Resources (under which the Child Care Licensing Office was located until the Office of School Readiness was formed) after 34 years of work. The award honors others who share her perseverance and long-term support of quality care for young children.
Award Criteria
The Jo Cato Perseverance on Behalf of Children and Families Award is awarded to an individual who has significantly demonstrated support of children and families by having a:
Long history (10 years +) of service
Strong voice and work ethic
Commitment to lifelong learning
Commitment to diversity
Measurable impact
Recipients of the Jo Cato Perseverance on Behalf of Children and Families Award
2022: Beverly Knox
2021: Angie Moon de Avila
2020: Joyce Ellis
2019: Latrinka Barnes
2018: Kathleen Lockhart
2017: Charmaine Godley
2016: Peggy Gallagher
2015: Nona Welch
2014: Charlotte Wallinga
2013: Donna King Martin
2012: Laura J. Johns
2011: Carol Hartman
2010: Gloria Calhoun
2009: Juanita Blount-Clark
2008: Jackye Brown
2007: Anita Smith
2006: Mary K. Jackson
2005: Elaine Draeger
2004: Gary Larson
2003: Gloria Johnston