D. Susan Wisely Youth Worker of the Year
Award Overview & Nomination Information
Every year, the Indiana Youth Institute (IYI) proudly presents the D. Susan Wisely Youth Worker of the Year Award to recognize an outstanding youth worker who has profoundly impacted the lives of Indiana’s children. This prestigious award, named in honor of D. Susan Wisely, commemorates her lifelong dedication to advocating for Indiana’s youth-serving professionals and the young people they support.
Recipients of IYI’s D. Susan Wisely Youth Worker of the Year Award embody an unwavering commitment to improving the lives of Indiana’s children and youth. They exemplify leadership, courage, and a steadfast dedication in their work. Embracing diversity and inclusion, they strive to ensure equitable opportunities for all children and youth. These awardees serve as mentors, fostering trust while embodying integrity, honesty, and accountability. Their dedication to achieving tangible results and implementing effective practices is evident in their actions.
- The 2024 nomination process is now closed. Please check back in 2025.
- Click here to learn about D. Susan Wisely’s contributions and influence within Indiana’s youth-serving sector.
- Check out IYI’s 2023 D. Susan Wisely Youth Worker of the Year recipient’s recognition video.
- Email Katy Harvey, Director of Grants Management, with questions.
- $2,500 award to support professional growth and learning.
- Registration to IYI’s 2024 KIDS COUNT® Conference in Indianapolis. Check out last year’s KIDS COUNT® Conference video recap to learn more.
* Hotel and limited travel accommodation provided to the recipient if outside of the Indianapolis Metro Area.
- Currently employed as a full-time youth-serving professional in Indiana.
- Provides direct services to children and/or youth in Indiana.
- Possesses a minimum of five years of professional experience in youth work.
- Not affiliated with the Indiana Youth Institute as an employee or contractor.
- Kindly refrain from submitting nominations for family members or friends.
Meet the D. Susan Wisely Youth Worker
of the Year Recipients
Congratulations to Dr. Megan Kirk, Behavior & Wellness Coordinator at Vigo County School Corporation, on being awarded IYI D. Susan Wisely Youth Worker of the Year award in 2023 for her work with kids in Muncie and Delaware County.
Congratulations to Katie Lehman, Ready Readers Supervisor at the Muncie Public Library, on being awarded IYI D. Susan Wisely Youth Worker of the Year award in 2022 for her work with kids in Muncie and Delaware County.
Congratulations to Donna Golob, Executive Director of A Positive Approach to Teen Health, on being awarded D. Susan Wisely Youth Worker of the Year winner in 2021 for her work with teens throughout northwest Indiana.
