Each year, West Virginia CASA recognizes outstanding individuals whose work embodies the highest standards of child advocacy. At the FY26 WV CASA Awards Gala—held under the theme Love Our Children—those honors were given to professionals who dedicate their careers to protecting and uplifting children across the state.
This year, CASA of the Eastern Panhandle was proud to nominate Daja Elliott, who was named WV CASA Attorney of the Year.
As Sarah Pauletti, Director of Programs at CASA-EP, shared during the nomination remarks, “When we were asked to submit a nomination for Attorney of the Year, one name rose above a long list of dedicated professionals—Daja Elliott.”
Daja began serving children in the Eastern Panhandle during a time of intense strain on the child welfare system. Caseloads were rising, turnover was high, and consistency within multidisciplinary teams was difficult to maintain. In that environment, CASA often found itself as the only steady presence for many children.
Then came Daja.
Sarah recalled, “And then came Daja—bright smile, warm presence, and a collaborative spirit that immediately brought hope into a chaotic time.”
From the very beginning, Daja’s approach set her apart. She didn’t simply review case details. She problem-solved, strategized, and actively sought input from CASA volunteers and staff. As Sarah shared, “She valued CASA’s observations and treated our input as essential to the child’s wellbeing.”
That spirit of collaboration is consistent across every role Daja touches. CASA volunteers, staff, and community partners echoed that sentiment:
From a CASA volunteer:
“Daja was the first GAL I worked with. She always thanked me for updates, asked questions, and even sought my opinion. Any advocate who works with Daja is lucky.”
From CASA staff:
“Daja is a fierce advocate with a nurturing heart. She goes above and beyond her legal obligations for every youth she serves.”
From a CPS social worker:
“Daja always has the child’s best interest at heart. She is amazing with her kids during visits.”
Daja’s dedication shows up in countless ways—ensuring CASA is included in every conversation, thinking creatively to support struggling youth, meeting advocates face-to-face to handle sensitive matters with care, and traveling across the state when a child’s safety depends on it.
As Sarah shared, “She doesn’t just represent children—she champions them. She doesn’t just do the job—she embodies the heart of it.”
That heart was perfectly reflected in this year’s theme, Love Our Children. As Sarah concluded, “Daja lives that theme every day.”
CASA-EP was honored to have Sarah Pauletti and Kim Naiman attend the WV CASA Awards Gala to celebrate this well-deserved recognition. On behalf of CASA staff, volunteers, judges, caseworkers, and, most importantly, the children whose lives she has touched, we extend our heartfelt congratulations.
Congratulations, Daja Elliott—WV CASA Attorney of the Year.
