Award given to Jane Hickman at Nashville ceremony

NASHVILLE, Jan. 23, 2015 — Jane Hickman of Greenbrier has been named the 2015 CASA Volunteer of the Year by the Tennessee Bar Association Young Lawyers Division (YLD). The award recognizes Hickman’s eight years of service as a volunteer for CASA of Robertson County.

Knoxville lawyer Katrina Atchley Arbogast, chair of the YLD Children’s Issues Committee, presented the award to Hickman at a recent dinner in Nashville. Kathy Williams, executive director of CASA of Robertson County, also was on hand.

Hickman was recognized for her long service to CASA and her unrelenting advocacy on behalf of clients. She has volunteered with the agency for eight years, has reunited 18 families and has found safe permanent homes for 31 other children. She also was recognized for her “above and beyond” approach to service. Williams wrote in her nomination form that at one point, Hickman was handling seven cases at one time. While the agency rarely gives a volunteer that many cases, Williams said they were confident that Hickman could carry the caseload without sacrificing the quality of representation.

Hickman also has a special place in her heart for teens and those who are about to “age out” of the foster care system – a group that often does not receive the attention it deserves. Hickman is particularly effective in advocating for alternative education options so teens have the opportunity to earn a high school degree as well as a better chance for a successful and productive life.

Finally, Hickman supports the work of CASA by participating in its community events, representing the agency during the “CASA on the Hill” state legislative lobbying day and mentoring new volunteers. At the heart of her service, however, is an unwavering commitment to kids. “She just does not give up on kids, no matter what,” Williams says. And for that, the YLD was honored to present her with the 2015 CASA Volunteer of the Year Award.

The Tennessee Bar Association Young Lawyers Division is comprised of association members age 36 and younger or within the first five years of practice regardless of age. The division is dedicated to helping new lawyers succeed in the profession through mentoring programs, continuing legal education and peer networking, as well as find fulfillment in the practice of law through pro bono legal work and public service projects.