ATLANTA – The Georgia Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Disabilities (DBHDD) announced 10 recipients of the 2024 Flame of Hope Award on November 19 at the Georgia State Capitol. The Flame of Hope Awards recognize individuals across Georgia who exemplify the spirit of hope and embody the mission and values of DBHDD.

“This year’s Flame of Hope Award winners embody the best of Georgia’s spirit,” said Commissioner Kevin Tanner. “Each of these winners have redefined how we address mental health, recovery, and support for individuals with disabilities. Their work inspires us to continue building a system that is compassionate, effective, and inclusive for all Georgians.”

During the ceremony, Georgia House of Representatives Speaker Jon Burns (R-Newington) and community leaders gathered to recognize the award recipients. The Flame of Hope nomination process garnered a substantial response with 140 nominations from community leaders, providers and stakeholders.

The following individuals were named 2024 Flame of Hope Award winners:

  • Judge Kathlene Gosselin is the founder of Hall County’s Mental Health and Veterans Accountability Courts. She was honored for her visionary leadership and unwavering commitment to justice and recovery. Her contributions have transformed lives and addressed critical challenges in the justice system. Judge Gosselin was nominated by Commissioner Tanner.
  • Andrea Corley was honored for her leadership in building Georgia’s crisis intervention system. As Director of the Georgia Crisis and Access Line (GCAL), Andrea has spent 15 years shaping a zero-barrier access model that ensures empathetic, high-standard care for individuals in crisis. Her dedication to over 30,000 hours of service has positioned Georgia as a national leader in telephonic crisis services.
  • Pastor Clint Fasciano is a Peer Support Specialist at Freedom Through Recovery. With unwavering kindness and steadfast faith, Clint has guided countless individuals toward recovery, earning the admiration of peers and families, including Connie Clements, who witnessed her daughter’s transformation thanks to his care.
  • Dr. Edward Valentin was celebrated for his innovative work supporting veterans’ mental health with the Emory School of Medicine. His groundbreaking research, including the Psychosocial Resiliency Index and Cognitive-Based Intervention model, has revolutionized care for high-risk groups, including veterans struggling with depression and suicidality.
  • Jennifer Wilds is the Executive Director of the Newton Rockdale Suicide Prevention Coalition, where she has championed initiatives that empower communities and inspire hope. Her impactful events, such as Kick the Habit and Sounds of Support, highlight her dedication to saving lives and uplifting individuals.
  • Bonnie Hardage leadsthe Georgia Mental Health Funders Collaborative, which has united more than 23 foundations to foster systemic change in Georgia’s mental health landscape. Her commitment to collaboration and innovation has driven transformative improvements in mental health care access and outcomes.
  • Chad Jones is the VP of Business Operations for View Point Behavioral Health, where he advocates for mental health and survivors of sex trafficking. Chad has led initiatives to expand partnerships with the Gwinnett Juvenile Court to offer second chances to children outside of the criminal justice system.
  • Major Trey Burgamy is dedicated to bridging law enforcement and behavioral health in Washington County. From crisis intervention training to establishing a Mental Health Task Force, his work has improved community relations and crisis response.
  • Bradley Carlisle is a 35-year-old man with Down syndrome who has achieved remarkable independence after transitioning to his own apartment in 2023. His inspiring journey demonstrates the power of determination and individualized support in fulfilling dreams.
  • Teresa Irby has spent 38 years as a steadfast advocate for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. She is the Program Director for the Community Service Board of Middle Georgia. Speaker Burns has selected Teresa for the “Speaker’s Choice” designation.

A video recording of this ceremony may be found here.

Contact

Director, Office of Communications Camille Taylor

[email protected]