The SMILE Award represents - Sustained Mental Health Initiatives and Lifetime of Excellence.
To recognize the dedicated leaders and organizations across the nation who are working to end the youth mental health crisis, the SMILE Award categories include:
- Business / Organization
- Individual
- NEW! Student / Young Professional
We are pleased to announce the 2024 SMILE Award winners.
Business / Organization Winner
The Milwaukee Institute of Art & Design (MIAD)
Milwaukee, Wisconsin
MIAD is recognized for its comprehensive and inclusive approach to supporting student mental health and well-being. Through its Student Services Center, MIAD offers non-clinical mental health support, accessibility services, and academic tutoring tailored to the unique needs of its students. In addition, the Equity + Inclusion Center at MIAD fosters a sense of belonging and provides a safe space for students while engaging in meaningful dialogue around mental health.
MIAD’s commitment to holistic wellness is evident in its annual Wellness Fair, which connects students with local mental health resources and offers creative stress-relief activities. Initiatives like pet therapy during peak academic periods demonstrate MIAD’s focus on providing practical and compassionate support for students, ensuring they have the resources needed to succeed both academically and personally.
Individual Winner
Vaquisha Black
Vaquisha Black of Illinois, is a dedicated advocate for youth mental health, integrating her clinical expertise with a passion for systemic change. As a behavioral health counselor and a key member of organizations like NAMI Chicago and Young Invincibles, Black focuses on providing direct support while also driving policy advancements. Her advocacy for initiatives such as the Mental Health Early Action on Campus Act in Illinois, which received $19 million in funding this year, is a testament to her commitment to accessible mental health care for all. Black’s work aims to remove barriers to mental health services, ensuring young people receive the support they need to thrive.
Her dedication is fueled by her personal journey and professional experiences, which have shaped her holistic approach to youth mental health. She continues to advocate for the expansion of mental health services and the importance of creating inclusive, supportive environments for young people, both on a community and policy level.
Student / Young Professional Winner
Clementina Jose
Hunter College
Clementina Jose of New York, has made a remarkable impact in the field of youth mental health. At just 22 years old, she received her master’s degree in social work and a social work license. Jose oversees 11 programs across New York City, focusing on providing holistic mental health support to underserved communities. Her role as a social work supervisor allows her to directly engage with students while also leading efforts to create supportive educational environments. Jose’s work emphasizes the importance of culturally relevant mental health care and the power of youth advocacy.
Growing up in the same communities she now serves, Jose is committed to breaking down barriers and ensuring every child has access to the mental health resources they need. Her advocacy extends beyond her day-to-day responsibilities, as she actively writes about mental health in educational settings and speaks at national conferences to promote systemic change.
Thank you to everyone that applied for our 2024 SMILE Award. Please stay tuned to this page, or subscribe to our newsletter, to stay updated on important details and dates for the 2025 SMILE Award.
Have questions?
Please contact CMH@reputationpartners.com for support.
Q&A
Why Should I Enter?
All initiatives - large or small – that are actively working to improve youth mental health care in the United States deserve to be recognized. The SMILE Award is a cost-effective way to thank and honor your company, organization, individual leaders and/or youth advocates for taking youth mental health seriously and making a difference. All are welcomed and encouraged to submit, and everyone has a chance to win.
When you win a SMILE Award, you will be featured on Choose Mental Health’s website with additional marketing opportunities available, including a winners’ press release, branding collateral (i.e., badges for company and/or individual websites, email signatures, etc.), social media features and much more.
Who is eligible to apply/nominate?
Successful nominees will have demonstrated how they championed youth mental health through advocacy, policies, practices, and activities they support. We strongly encourage submitting examples including, but not limited to, links to activities, social media pages and attachments (i.e., PDF flyers, brochures, etc.). Self-nominations are accepted.
Is there a cost associated with nominating?
Submissions for the Choose Mental Health SMILE Award is free and open to all businesses, organizations, individuals and youth advocates who are actively working to address the youth mental health crisis. You may nominate as many businesses, organizations, and/or individuals as you like, if they meet the criteria above.
What does SMILE stand for?
Sustained Mental Health Initiatives and Lifetime of Excellence.
Who won last year?
Newsletter ?
More Questions?
Who can I contact? For more information on Choose Mental Health or questions on the Choose Mental Health SMILE Award, please contact CMH@reputationpartners.com