2025 Director of the Year: Patricia Anderson-Alicea

Each year, Louisiana CASA proudly recognizes the outstanding individuals and programs that go above and beyond in their commitment to advocating for children in foster care. The Awards of Excellence honor those who exemplify the heart of CASA’s mission—to ensure every child has a safe, permanent, and nurturing home.

These awards celebrate the passion, dedication, and impact of CASA volunteers, staff, board members, and partners across the state. From courtroom advocacy to organizational leadership, these honorees reflect the best of what CASA stands for: hope, compassion, and unwavering support for Louisiana’s most vulnerable children.

Director of the Year, Patricia Anderson-Alicea

This year’s Director of the Year, Patricia Anderson-Alicea of Volunteers for Youth Justice CASA, has elevated CASA’s presence in Northwest Louisiana through strategic leadership, community engagement, and a tireless commitment to equity and inclusion.

As the CASA Director overseeing seven parishes, 14 staff members, and over 200 volunteers, Patricia’s leadership has been instrumental in strengthening the program’s foundation and extending its reach into underserved communities. Under her guidance, CASA of Northwest Louisiana has grown both in scale and effectiveness, becoming a model of innovation and advocacy.

Kathy Mitton, VYJ Board President, shared:

“Patricia has not only strengthened CASA's presence in our region, but she has also built vital relationships with DCFS, judges, and nonprofit organizations. Her leadership has fostered a community that understands, values, and actively supports the work of CASA volunteers.”

One of Patricia’s most impactful initiatives was addressing a major language barrier in the child welfare system. While court interpreters were available for hearings, communication beyond the courtroom remained a challenge for non-English-speaking families. Recognizing this gap, Patricia secured both interpreters for out-of-court communication and funding to sustain this essential service—ensuring equitable advocacy for every family.

She also champions diversity within the CASA program, prioritizing the recruitment of staff and volunteers who reflect the children and families they serve. This commitment to culturally competent advocacy has strengthened relationships with families and improved outcomes for children in care.

Laura Hyson, CASA Program Coordinator, wrote:

“Patricia is a visionary leader who has streamlined processes, expanded our reach, and brought new energy to our recruitment strategies. She’s helped significantly increase the number of volunteers and has organized media campaigns and community presentations to raise awareness about CASA’s role.”

Through her dedication to public education, Patricia has fostered partnerships with local schools and organizations, ensuring the broader community understands the urgent needs of children in foster care and how they can help. Her leadership has resulted in greater volunteer retention, improved training, and a more effective, inclusive program overall.

“Her unwavering commitment, strategic vision, and compassionate leadership have profoundly impacted the lives of countless children in Northwest Louisiana,” wrote Hyson. “We are stronger because of her.”

For her outstanding leadership, inclusive advocacy, and enduring impact on children and families across Northwest Louisiana, Louisiana CASA is proud to name Patricia Anderson-Alicea the 2025 Director of the Year.