2023 John McDermott Champion of Children Award

John McDermott was a man whose life was committed to changing the future for New Hampshire’s youth. He spent his entire career in law enforcement and juvenile justice working diligently to improve the lives of children. John knew and believed the committed work of one or many could, and would, change the course of events and impact generations to come. John McDermott’s life was an example of how relentless advocacy can move mountains and turn the thinking of a single child in need around. The John McDermott Champion of Children Award is an annual award that celebrates the work of one person whose tireless advocacy has influenced the lives of many.

Joe Ribsam

During his tenure as the director of the Division for Children, Youth and Families, Joe Ribsam was responsible for foundational change. Joe departed DCYF this summer, accepting the position of director of child welfare and juvenile justice at the nationally recognized Annie E. Casey Foundation. We will miss Joe, but are thankful for his efforts to transform and improve DCYF during a difficult period. He was also integral in repairing relationships with the state Legislature, and worked on establishing many other partnerships throughout the state, all focused on how to better help children. This included a renewed focus on prevention, building more structure around supports for families, resulting in a variety of programs that families can now access. We are grateful for Joe’s service, and wish him the best of luck in his new role.

Past Honorees:

2022 – Carol Goldstein
2021 – Lou Catano
2020 – Sylvia Gale
2019 – Judge Willard “Bud” Martin
2018 – Governor Christopher Sununu
2017 – Gail Snow
2016 – Sue Meagher
2015 – Kristi Lamont
2014 – Ann Larney
2013 – Sandra Matheson