October 14, 2026

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Governor's Council on Domestic Abuse Presents

Outstanding Achievement in Domestic Abuse Issues Awards

MADISON - Governor Tony Evers today presented awards to honor three individuals and organizations for their contributions in assisting survivors of domestic violence in a special ceremony held at the state Capitol. The ceremony was hosted as part of Domestic Violence Awareness Month, a statewide effort to raise awareness about the effects of domestic abuse.

This is the 34th year the Governor's Council on Domestic Abuse has selected recipients for the Outstanding Achievement in Domestic Abuse Issues awards.

"These dedicated folks represent the many people across our state who are working hard to support survivors and their families. Whether they're hotline workers, advocates, law enforcement, and legal and judicial partners, these folks are critical pillars in the work to respond to and prevent violence across our state," said Gov. Evers. "In the most challenging moments, their compassion, expertise, and support pave the way from crisis to stability and hope. Wisconsin is stronger because of their commitment to supporting survivors and their choice to do this work every day, and I'm incredibly grateful for their efforts."

At the ceremony, Governor Tony Evers and council members presented awards in three categories:

Hmong American Women's Association (HAWA) of Milwaukee was honored with the Sharon Lewandowski Justice Award. This award recognizes survivors of domestic abuse who have overcome adversity and had the courage to survive, have empowered themselves, and serve as an inspiration for others. With more than 30 years of experience, the Hmong American Women's Association has filled a critical gap in services for communities that have faced barriers seeking help. Through crisis intervention, HAWA ensures that survivors can access support in ways that honor their language, culture, and lived experiences. The impact that the Hmong American Women's Association has made is immeasurable and has forever changed the lives of survivors.

Geri Segal of Eau Claire was honored with the Patricia J. Waschbisch Lifetime Achievement Award,which honors an individual who has provided exceptional services to many survivors of domestic abuse over the course of a career and who has promoted a vision of ending violence and achieving social justice. The award is named for and commemorates the legacy of an advocate who lost her life in a domestic homicide in 2013. Geri, previous executive director of Family Support Center (FSC), dedicated her 28-year career to helping thousands of survivors in their hardest moments feel connected, comfortable and safe. Although Geri retired from FSC in June, her professional impact and unwavering support continue to inspire survivors, staff members, and the larger community.

Stacey Cicero of Shawano was also honored with the Patricia J. Waschbisch Lifetime Achievement Award. Stacey, administrative coordinator for Shawano County, has devoted 25 years to the domestic abuse movement in Wisconsin, beginning her career in 2001 as Executive Director of Safe Haven Domestic Abuse Center in Shawano County. Later, she served as the domestic abuse program coordinator for the Department of Children and Families (DCF). During her time at DCF, her steadfast, behind-scenes work overseeing grants, budgets, contracts, reporting and technical assistance helped ensure thousands of survivors across the state were able to access services. She has been a calm and powerful voice in the domestic violence movement, helping carry priorities through state government, leading with determination, successful collaboration, and ensuring programs provide exemplary services to Wisconsin survivors.

"The resilience and strength from these leaders fuels the resilience of survivors. These leaders and agencies work relentlessly to provide survivors the safety and resources they need to keep moving forward," said acting DCF Secretary Nadya Pérez-Reyes. "Thank you for standing on the front lines of advocacy and showing up with unwavering care and support each day."

In federal fiscal year 2025, DCF domestic abuse funding provided critical assistance for more than 26,000 survivors with more than 240,000 nights of safe shelter for 4,834 survivors and their children. Of the people staying in safe shelter, 47 percent were children and youth. DCF domestic abuse funding also provided these survivors with supportive advocacy, counseling, and other community-based services.

Through strong partnerships and innovative approaches, individuals across the state are receiving specialized trauma-informed care that supports them in healing and becoming independent again.

Learn about the types of domestic abuse and where to find domestic abuse services at https://dcf.wisconsin.gov/domesticabuse.

Stay connected with DCF by following @WisDCF on Facebook.