Barb Haggarty-Hebert of Western Student Health Services recently received the Champion of Mental Health Award, presented by the Canadian Mental Health Association at its Breakfast of Champions event this week.
Haggarty-Hebert, who shared the award with husband Paul Hebert, was described as a tireless advocate for mental health and initiatives to combat stigma.
“Paul and Barbara have made many significant accomplishments to advocate and advance knowledge in this area,” the nomination read. “They have reached out to both television and newspaper media and have composed a song. In addition, they have spearheaded several fundraising initiatives, such as the contribution of research that is currently underway at the Lawson Research Institute, and they have established an endowment fund in support of adolescent mental health at FEMAP (First Episode Mood and Anxiety Program) House.”
In 2010, Haggarty-Hebert won a Western Award of Excellence.
The Champion of Mental Health Award honours individuals and organizations in the London-Middlesex community who have made a significant contribution in one or more of the following four areas: Reducing the stigma of mental illness; providing support to those impacted by mental illnesses; advocacy for issues related to mental health; and advancing knowledge in mental illness/health research.
Lisa Mercer, a recent secondary school graduate of the Thames Valley District School Board (TVDSB), who has worked with school officials during the development and implementation of the TVDSB’s mental health strategic plan, also received the award. Nominees included Dr. Bethany Butzer; Dr. Robbie Campbell; Mary Graham; Nancy Hiron and Julie Varley; London Police Services; Dr. Richard J. Owen; Clay Powell; and Teen Challenge Farm.