Ohio CASA’s Haley Nelson inducted into Sylvania Schools Distinguished Alumni Hall of Fame
Nelson honored for her work with Ohio CASA Network, television reporting career
The Ohio CASA/GAL Association’s Director of Communications Haley Nelson was inducted into the Sylvania Schools Distinguished Alumni Hall of Fame in March.
Nelson, a graduate of Sylvania Northview High School in Northwest Ohio, was recognized for her work with Ohio CASA and local programs statewide, and for her journalism career.
“This was such a special and emotional honor for me,” said Nelson. “Through CASA, I see clearly how important it is for every young person to have a consistent, caring adult in their corner. I am so lucky that so many consistent, caring adults stepped up for me during my time at Sylvania Schools. I hope to pay that forward.”
Nelson was nominated by two of her former teachers who joined her at the 33rd Annual Induction Ceremony. Before the ceremony, Nelson spent the day visiting teachers and talking with students, sharing career guidance and information about CASA volunteers.
Nelson joined Ohio CASA in 2023 as Director of Communications, bringing a passion for service to her work leading communications and marketing efforts across Ohio.
She aids local CASA programs and has developed one-of-a-kind awareness campaigns, for example, partnering with major and minor league baseball teams statewide to highlight the work of CASA volunteers. She also leads trainings on best practices for communications, social media use, media relations, and other marketing topics.
Nelson worked as an investigative television reporter and anchor in Michigan and Ohio, covering child welfare stories, breaking news, and court cases. She has been honored with multiple awards, including a regional Emmy award for breaking news coverage, and “Best Reporter” and “Best Sportscast” from the Ohio Associated Press Media Editors.
“It was notable to accept this recognition in Lucas County where the first ever CASA program launched in Ohio in 1980. It has been an honor to work with volunteers, talk with young people who have experienced foster care, and share these stories,” said Nelson.
Nelson was joined at the ceremony by family, friends, educators and other supporters.
“We congratulate Haley on this special recognition,” said Ohio CASA Executive Director Doug Stephens. “Her dedication to raising awareness about CASA has been valuable and I am encouraged to see how this impact will grow.”
Nelson is one of the youngest inductees into the Alumni Hall of Fame.
If you would like to learn more about the work of Ohio CASA and read the latest news about CASA volunteers, check out the news section of our website.