Juvenile Mental Health Court Team Honored with Governor’s Award

Salt Lake City, UT—The Third District Juvenile Mental Health Court team has received the 2019 Governor’s Award for its dedication to helping juveniles struggling with serious mental health challenges, and their families, overcome difficulties and find healing.
The award was presented to team members on Tuesday before the Utah Substance Use and Mental Health Advisory Council (USAAV+), by council chair Scott Reed.
Third District Juvenile Judge Elizabeth Knight, who presides over the specialty court, thanked her team for their unrelenting support. She pointed out that her court doesn’t just help juveniles, but entire families.
Former juvenile defense attorney, and current Director of the Utah Division of Multicultural Affairs, Nubia Pena called Judge Knight a leader, “with compassion and grace,” saying it’s not easy to handle high-risk youth with mental health needs.
“Stepping to help youth who struggle with mental health issues is no easy task. I commend the bravery and dedication of the team members of the Third District Juvenile Mental Health Court for helping countless youth and families find healing and wholeness. They are improving lives,” said Hon. Mary T. Noonan, Utah State Court Administrator.
The team was one of four awards given out. The purpose of the aware is to recognize those who have made outstanding contributions to the substance use or mental health fields and who have effectively promoted the USAAV+ Council’s mission to create and coordinate a comprehensive strategy to effectively address substance use and mental health disorders throughout Utah.
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