Monroe County CASA Announces Retirement of Kristin Bishay

Monroe County CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocates) announces the retirement of Kristin Bishay, its long-time Executive Director, effective October 31st. Kristin has devoted nearly three decades to advocating for abused and neglected children in the community, starting as a CASA volunteer and then rising to the role of Executive Director in 2007.

Throughout her tenure, Kristin has been a tireless champion for children in need. Under her leadership, Monroe County CASA expanded significantly, growing from a small group to a staff of 10 and 75 volunteers, who collectively serve more than 400 children each year. Kristin has guided the organization through numerous challenges—including the opioid crisis and the COVID-19 pandemic—while spearheading programmatic growth, increasing volunteer recruitment, and implementing new initiatives to support the children and families CASA serves.

Kristin’s dedication to the mission has been unwavering. She has always led with compassion and positivity, reminding staff and volunteers that, despite the difficult nature of their work, they are making a profound impact in the lives of children and families.

“It’s hard to express how incredibly fortunate I feel to have spent my career doing work that I am deeply passionate about, alongside so many incredible people,” Kristin said in a recent statement. “The staff, board members, and volunteers I’ve had the honor of working with over the years have truly enriched my life. While I’m excited to spend more time with my children and grandchildren, CASA will forever hold a special place in my heart.”

Kathleen Field, Chair of the Board of Directors, said, “On behalf of the Board, I would like to thank Kristin for her outstanding leadership and service. It has been a privilege to work with Kristin to support the mission of Monroe County CASA. Please join me in thanking Kristin for her 28+ years of service to Monroe County CASA and wish her a wonderful new season in retirement.”

 

 

Monroe County CASA Announces New Executive Director

The Monroe County CASA Board of Directors is pleased to announce Tia Arthur as the next Executive Director of Monroe County CASA.

Tia has already dedicated over 17 years to supporting the well-being of abused and neglected children in Monroe County. She has served CASA in various capacities, including Case Coordinator as well as Program Manager for both the Courthouse Facility Dog Program and the Child Visit Monitor Program. Prior to her work at CASA, Tia was a valued member of the staff at the Youth Services Bureau and the Department of Child Services. She will officially assume her new role on November 1, 2024, following the retirement of long-time Executive Director Kristin Bishay on October 31, 2024.

The Board of Directors conducted an extensive search over the summer, with more than 100 applicants considered for the position. Tia stood out not only for her deep knowledge and experience within the organization but also for her clear vision for the future of CASA. Her unwavering commitment to ensuring every abused and neglected child has a dedicated advocate, and her passion for keeping the best interests of children at the forefront, were key factors in her selection.

“My primary focus will be to expand our efforts to ensure every child appointed to our program has an advocate. When the discussion is about them, someone needs to be there to ensure their interests are at the forefront of every conversation and court hearing. Every child deserves a voice,” Arthur said. She intends to continue leading CASA with compassion, dedication, and a steadfast commitment to improving the lives of vulnerable children in our community.

“On behalf of the Board, we enthusiastically welcome Tia’s leadership and vision for CASA. Tia brings a wealth of knowledge and passion to the position, and we are grateful and excited to work with her” says Board Chair, Kathleen Field.