The Michigan Supreme Court is currently accepting nominations for two significant awards: the Maura D. Corrigan Foster Family Lifetime Achievement Award and the Daniel J. Wright Lifetime Achievement Award. These honors will be presented at the Michigan Adoption Day celebration on November 18, 2024, at the Hall of Justice in Lansing.
The Maura D. Corrigan Foster Family Award recognizes foster families who have made outstanding contributions to the welfare of children in Michigan. It is named after former Justice Maura D. Corrigan, known for her efforts to reform the state's adoption process during her tenure as chief justice and director of the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services. "Foster parents step up because they love children and want to make a difference in their lives, yet their tireless efforts often go unrecognized," said Justice Megan K. Cavanagh, MSC co-liaison on child welfare matters. "This award celebrates extraordinary foster parents whose dedication to providing a safe and loving home inspires others to follow their lead." Last year, Kristin VanderKam from Kent County received this award for her service in social work and fostering high-needs youth.
The Daniel J. Wright Lifetime Achievement Award is given to individuals with at least ten years of experience who have significantly impacted children's services in Michigan across various professions, including law, social work, and non-profit sectors. This award honors Daniel J. Wright, a notable advocate for children's rights within court proceedings and a former director of the Court’s Child Welfare Services Division. "Daniel’s legacy lives on through his work to ensure that foster children have a greater voice in decisions that affect their lives," said Justice Kyra H. Bolden, MSC co-liaison on child welfare matters. In 2023, Elizabeth Gleicher was honored with this award for her contributions to child welfare law.
Nominations must be submitted by October 24 via email or fax using forms available from the court's website. For further inquiries, Lynette Durnell can be contacted at DurnellL@courts.mi.gov or 517-373-5322.