The National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) Minnesota celebrated outstanding advocates and organizations advancing mental health at its 2025 Awards Luncheon, held during the organization’s annual conference this fall. Awards were presented to individuals and organizations that have made significant contributions to improving the lives of people living with mental illnesses and their families.
NAMI Board members presented the awards with assistance from Marcus Schmit, new executive director of NAMI Minnesota. His predecessor, Sue Abderholden, was also honored.
“Every day, NAMI Minnesota is inspired by the people who champion justice, dignity and respect for children and adults affected by mental illnesses,” said Schmit. “These awardees represent the best of what’s possible when individuals and organizations come together to promote understanding, equity and hope in mental health. We’re deeply grateful for their leadership and commitment to improving our communities.”
Awards are presented in various categories.
Legislators of the Year: Rep. Mohamud Noor (DFL-Minneapolis) and Rep. Joe Schomacker (R-Luverne). NAMI Minnesota recognized the two lawmakers for their bipartisan leadership as co-chairs of the Human Services Finance and Policy Committee. Together, they navigated complex budget negotiations and advanced crucial mental health policies and funding, demonstrating that collaboration across party lines can create meaningful progress.
Volunteer of the Year: Veronica Kruschel. Kruschel, a dedicated safety/support volunteer, was honored for her service assisting staff during suicide prevention trainings where she offered compassionate support to attendees. Despite a demanding college schedule, Kruschel has consistently prioritized helping others.
Professional of the Year: Veronika Mix. Mix, who is from People Incorporated, was honored for her leadership and innovation in creating community-based mental health programs. She revitalized the Artability program, promoted neighborhood engagement and led efforts resulting in the opening of a crisis center at George Floyd Square.
Accepting the award on her behalf was Kellen Tittle, Chief Financial Officer at People Incorporated.
Providers of the Year: Vikingland Community Support Program and Fernbrook Family Center. NAMI Minnesota recognized the Vikingland Community Support Program of Alexandria for more than 30 years of providing compassionate, community-based mental health services that help individuals build connection, resilience and recovery. Owatonna-based Fernbrook Family Center was honored for its broad network of services across southern Minnesota and its advocacy for stronger statewide mental health systems. CEO Shannon Brown accepted the award.
Peer Specialist of the Year: Sayer Frey. Frey, the first peer support specialist on Hennepin HealthCare’s inpatient psychiatric unit, was honored for her pioneering leadership. Frey developed the peer support program from the ground up, empowering patients and fostering dignity and respect in their care.
Criminal Justice Award: Stearns County Probation Team. The Stearns County Probation Team of Aaron Gosling, Brittany Swenson and Rob Hastings received recognition for their work in supporting individuals with mental illnesses who are involved in the criminal justice system. Their compassionate approach helps connect people to vital community services and resources.
Media Award: FOX 9 Investigative Team. The FOX 9 Investigative Team received the Media Award for exposing a county’s practice of billing individuals for crisis services despite existing grant funding. Their reporting prompted the county to rescind the policy and inspired NAMI Minnesota to draft and successfully advocate for legislation preventing future abuses. Reporter Nathan O’Neil accepted the award.
