NHCASA Staff: A Solid Team Serving Area Youth
NHCASA serves children in 8 counties, within the 4th Judicial Circuit of western South Dakota, through volunteer management and case supervision.
Under strong leadership, the NHCASA team strives to ensure every abused/neglected child involved in court proceedings is given a voice through Court Appointed Special Advocates.
Amy Cermak
Executive Director
Amy started with NHCASA in May of 2016. As the Child Advocacy Specialist, she recruited, trained, and supported CASA volunteers. Amy holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Elementary Education and a Master’s Degree in Educational Administration. Her experience with children, along with her leadership roles in various community/civic/school organizations, supports the foundation of the NHCASA program. Amy earned an Executive Certification in Children’s Law & Policy from Loyola University in 2020 and completed the Child & Adult Advocacy Studies program at the University of South Dakota in 2022. She became the Executive Director on March 1, 2023. Amy enjoys traveling and spending time with family and friends.
Anna Schmidt
Child Advocacy Specialist
Anna joined the NHCASA team as the Child Advocacy Specialist in January 2023. She holds a bachelor’s degree in psychology from Black Hills State University and has a strong passion and dedication for advocating for the best interests of children. She brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to her role, as she worked as a Family Services Specialist with Child Protection Services for just over 11 years. Anna loves spending time with friends and family. She enjoys horseback riding, fishing, and hunting.
Vanessa Reid
Development Coordinator
Vanessa joined CASA in September 2024. Alongside her husband, her search for a new chapter led her to being a part of something bigger than herself. Her years of experience in hospitality management and marketing provide a balance for the role of Development Coordinator. Vanessa’s disciplined and organized lifestyle allows her to gain the confidence of those she interacts with, leaving them with an assurance they will be taken care of. Vanessa loves spending time with family and friends, taking long walks with her dogs, and enjoying a good book at the end of the day.
Brenda Mosset
Office Administrator
Brenda has been with NHCASA since June 2016. Her organization and office management skills keep the program functioning to fulfill the needs of the children we serve. She has a history of helping children, as she worked for the Spearfish School District for 11 years. Brenda enjoys baking, cooking, walking, biking, hiking, and skiing. She loves a challenge.
2024 Board of Directors
Clair Garvin Grable
President
Deadwood Chamber of Commerce
Natalie Owens
Vice President
KDR Entertainment Inc
Jessie Dufner
Treasurer
First Interstate Bank
Julie Benedict
Security First Bank
Tiffany Even
Ameriprise Financial Services - Legacy Financial Partners
Garth Evers
Coeur Wharf
Erin Fiedler
Peak Motion Physical Therapy
Kanda Guthmiller
BHSU Joy Center
Melissa Kraft
Pioneer Bank & Trust
Nicole McCourt
Mutual of Omaha Mortgage
Amy Petersen
Twisted Pine Design Company & Mad Mountain Adventures