Former Miss Frazee an award winner and planned speaker at the event

By Robert Williams

Editor

National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) Minnesota celebrated outstanding advocates and organizations advancing mental health at its 2025 Annual Awards Luncheon, held during the organization’s annual conference, including Vikingland Community Support Program of Alexandria. Vikingland was represented at the luncheon by Executive Director Becky Schmitz, Frazee-Vergas Class of 2003 and former Miss Frazee.

The event honored individuals and organizations that have made significant contributions to improving the lives of people living with mental illnesses and their families.

The provider  award recognizes an organization that provides mental health services and demonstrates excellence, respect and best practices. 

“Sometimes I forget that people are watching because I feel like we live in a small town; Alexandria isn’t, but it feels kind of obsolete compared to programs in the metro,” Schmitz said in a September feature with the Forum. “To have that honor was pretty exciting.”

Prior to the award announcement, Schmitz was already asked to speak at the NAMI annual conference in November. 

NAMI Board Members presented the awards, with Marcus Schmit, the new executive director of NAMI Minnesota, assisting in distributing the honors. 

“Every day, NAMI Minnesota is inspired by the people who champion justice, dignity, and respect for children and adults affected by mental illnesses,” explained Schmit. “These awardees represent the best of what’s possible when individuals and organizations come together to promote understanding, equity, and hope in mental health. We’re deeply grateful for their leadership and commitment to improving our communities.”

Legislators of the Year: Representative 

Mohamud Noor and Representative Joe Schomacker

NAMI Minnesota recognized Representative Mohamud Noor and Representative Joe Schomacker for their bipartisan leadership as co-chairs of the Human Services Finance and Policy Committee. Together, they navigated complex budget negotiations and advanced crucial mental health policies and funding, demonstrating that collaboration across party lines can create meaningful progress.

Volunteer of the Year: 

Veronica Kruschel

Veronica Kruschel, a dedicated safety/support volunteer, was honored for her service assisting staff during suicide prevention trainings and offering compassionate support to attendees. Despite a demanding college schedule, Kruschel has consistently prioritized helping others.

Professional of the Year: 

Veronika Mix

NAMI Minnesota celebrated Veronika Mix from People Incorporated for her leadership and innovation in creating community-based mental health programs. She revitalized the Artability program, promoted neighborhood engagement, and led efforts resulting in the opening of a crisis center at George Floyd Square. Accepting the award on her behalf was Kellen Tittle, Chief Financial Officer at People Incorporated.

Providers of the Year: Vikingland 

Community Support Program and Fernbrook Family Center

NAMI Minnesota recognized the Vikingland Community Support Program of Alexandria for over 30 years of providing compassionate, community-based mental health services that help individuals build connection, resilience, and recovery. Additionally, Fernbrook Family Center, based in Owatonna, was honored for its broad network of services across southern Minnesota and its advocacy for stronger statewide mental health systems. CEO Shannon Brown accepted the award, emphasizing Fernbrook’s commitment to inclusion, innovation, and advocacy.

Peer Specialist 

of the Year: Sayer Frey

Sayer Frey, the first peer support specialist on Hennepin HealthCare’s inpatient psychiatric unit, was honored for her pioneering leadership. Frey developed the peer support program from the ground up, empowering patients and fostering dignity and respect in their care.

Criminal Justice Award: 

Stearns County 

Probation Team

The Stearns County Probation Team—comprising Aaron Gosling, Brittany Swenson, and Rob Hastings—received recognition for their work in supporting individuals with mental illnesses who are involved in the criminal justice system. Their compassionate approach helps connect people to vital community services and resources.

Media Award: FOX 9 

Investigative Team

The FOX 9 Investigative Team received the Media Award for exposing a county’s practice of billing individuals for crisis services despite existing grant funding. Their reporting prompted the county to rescind the policy and inspired NAMI Minnesota to draft and successfully advocate for legislation preventing future abuses. Reporter Nathan O’Neil accepted the award.