Mental Health Champions Award Recipients
Meet Our 2024 Mental Health Champions
Audrey Whittenberg
Audrey Whittenberg’s transformative journey in the realm of mental health is a testament to her resilience and unwavering dedication. Diagnosed with Bipolar Disorder, Schizoaffective Disorder, and borderline personality disorder at 15, Audrey faced profound challenges, including multiple suicide attempts and extensive psychiatric treatments. Despite being told she wouldn’t recover, within five years, Audrey earned a Bachelor of Social Work, came off disability, and worked as a Certified Peer Specialist at Fulton State Hospital. Over the next decade, she achieved a Master of Social Work and became a Licensed Master Social Worker. Audrey’s influence extends beyond her professional accomplishments; as a peer specialist, she shares her story through the RESPECT Institute and HOPE Project, emphasizing the possibility of recovery. Engaging in advocacy, Audrey co-leads a dual diagnosis 12-step group, conducts NAMI trainings, volunteers for the Special Olympics, and champions mental health legislation. Serving on councils like the Physical Environment Enhancement Team and the Zero Suicide Team, Audrey actively contributes to mental health initiatives, utilizing her lived experience to educate clients on mental illness and recovery strategies. Known for her perseverance, resiliency, and compassion, Audrey inspires others by exemplifying the journey to recovery. Her impact as a Mental Health Champion goes beyond professional success, breaking down barriers and transforming lives within the mental health community. Colleagues commend Audrey for her ability to unite groups toward the true focus of mental health professionals, making her a truly deserving recipient of this recognition.
Clifford Atterberry
Clifford Atterberry’s life embodies resilience, transformation, and an unwavering dedication to positive change. In 2005, he took a courageous step towards recovery, signaling the start of his commitment to personal development and a substance-free life. Between 2010 and 2014, Clifford’s determination led him to pursue a bachelor’s degree in human services, emphasizing academic excellence and leveraging experiences for others’ betterment. Despite legal challenges in 2002 resulting in a felony conviction, Clifford turned adversity into a testament of resilience, evolving from a convicted felon to an advocate for positive community engagement. His willingness to share his recovery story inspires others, fostering awareness and encouragement for those facing substance use disorders. Engaging with his community, Clifford secured employment through the Department of Mental Health in 2019, creating a supportive environment for trauma survivors. Active on boards and committees, he contributed to organizations like the Callaway County LGBTQ Alliance Group. In 2020, Clifford embraced foster parenting, displaying immense courage and compassion, ultimately adopting a son. His transformative journey, overcoming addiction, legal challenges, and personal adversities, positions Clifford as an advocate for positive change. His diverse contributions in planning, organizing, collaborating, and advocating for health and wellness highlight his exceptional impact on the community, making him a remarkable individual deserving recognition and celebration for his profound influence.
Lilly Eikermann
Lilly Eikermann, a vibrant and positive individual diagnosed with Down Syndrome, faced challenges during virtual learning due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Her social nature suffered, and upon returning to in-person school, she was placed in a special education class, segregated from her peers. Unhappy with menial tasks assigned to her, Lilly expressed her desire to learn to drive and sell snow cones from a golf cart. With determination, her father helped her acquire a golf cart, and with the support of the community, Lilly established “Lilly’s Snow Cones.” The business not only became a success but also promotes inclusion and advocates for accepting individuals of all abilities. Lilly actively hires people with disabilities, providing job coaching for their success. Her initiative has transformed her self-esteem and confidence. Despite being underestimated by school personnel, Lilly’s hard work challenges stereotypes about individuals with disabilities. Lilly’s Snow Cones is not just a business but a symbol of awareness, hope, and a testament to breaking down barriers for people with disabilities. Lilly’s journey illustrates that having a disability does not limit one’s capacity to learn, grow, and achieve success. Through her efforts, Lilly serves as a role model for individuals with disabilities and ignites positive change in her community, underscoring her genuine merit for this acknowledgment.
Our 2024 Mental Health Champion Nominees
Developmental/Intellectual Disabilities
Crawford Bassak
Larry Caldwell
Jamie Edmondson
Carl Edwards
Lorie Perdieu
Kelly Ray
Joseph Smith
Patty Sutton
Tristan Wells
Shade White
Johanna Wortmann
Scott Steelman-Rhoden
Scott Hoskins
Sheila Carter
Izabella Uccello
Sascha Whitt
Comissa Darling
Urania Gomez
Nicole Noblet
Steven Conoyer
Mental Illness
Ron Ipok
Tramone Poindexter
Doug Wright III
Tracy Gillespie
Thelma “Nicky” Lee
Brittny Adams
Christina Pohlman
Substance Use Disorders
Gabrial Bartolomei
Matt Chinn
Melody Johnson
Lori Johnson
Jared McCoy
Richard “Shane” Spurgeon
Emily Stuckey
Candy Meyer
Ralph Begay
Savanna Davidson
