2025 Staff Member of the Year: Halley Romero

Each year, Louisiana CASA recognizes outstanding individuals and programs across the state through our CASA Awards of Excellence. These honors celebrate the dedication, compassion, and exceptional efforts of those who work tirelessly to support children who have experienced abuse and neglect.

Staff Member of the Year, Halley Romero

This year, we are proud to present the Staff Member of the Year Award to Halley Romero of CASA of the 16th JDC.

Halley’s CASA journey began in 2022, when she was working with the Family Service Division just down the hall from the CASA office. What started as a curiosity about CASA quickly grew into a life-changing commitment.

As CASA of the 16th JDC's Executive Director Amanda Landry shared in her nomination letter: “Halley is not just a coworker; she is a powerhouse of determination, compassion, and unwavering commitment. She consistently goes above and beyond, giving 1000% every single day.”

After completing pre-service training, Halley immediately accepted her first case and threw herself into the work of advocating for two children. Amanda recalls: “She was their biggest cheerleader, celebrating their triumphs and standing steadfast in their struggles.”

When the children were reunified with their father, Halley stayed in touch—forming a bond that went far beyond the typical CASA role. In mid-2023, when the children’s father called to say he could no longer care for them, Halley didn’t hesitate: “Halley stepped up and became the caregiver to pre-teen twins. This extraordinary act speaks volumes about her character and her dedication to CASA’s vision.”

All while raising the twins, Halley also joined the CASA staff full-time as an Advocate Supervisor and completed her bachelor’s degree in psychology. Her personal experience gives her unique insight into trauma, empathy, and resilience—qualities that deeply inform her advocacy and support for families, children, and CASA volunteers.

Halley now leads all pre-service training for new volunteers and represents CASA at community events. Amanda notes that Halley’s “next-level organizational skills” have transformed the office’s internal processes, especially around court report preparation.

“Even if it means repeating the steps twenty times with endless patience,” Amanda says, “Halley ensures every advocate feels supported.”

The CASA of the 16th JDC Board of Directors also unanimously endorsed her nomination. In a letter from Vice President Shala Walls, she wrote: “Halley brings so much positivity to our team. There is never a task too small that she will not accomplish.”

Shala also praised Halley’s unmatched memory and connection with the children they serve: “Recently we had our CASA Christmas Party, and she could tell you everyone’s names and all the kids in the home, even if they were not in care.”

Beyond her role, Halley’s impact is deeply personal and far-reaching. “Halley does not just work for CASA,” Shala shared. “She values what we stand for and lives it out in her daily life.”

We are honored to recognize Halley Romero as the 2025 CASA Staff Member of the Year. Her heart, grit, and leadership are inspiring to all who work alongside her—and life-changing for the children and families she serves.