Judge Chad Kerkman (center) is presented with the Governor’s Champion of Adoption Award by DCF Secretary Eloise Anderson (left) and Fredi Ellen Bove, Administrator of DCF’s Division of Safety and Permanence. /Submitted photo
Judge Chad Kerkman, Kenosha County Circuit Court, received the 2012 Champion of Adoption Award at the annual presentation ceremony of the Governor’s Outstanding Adoptive Parent Awards at the State Capitol last week.
The ceremony was held in the Assembly Chamber and hosted by the Wisconsin Department of Children and Families (DCF). DCF Secretary Eloise Anderson presented awards to individuals and families who have dedicated themselves to supporting adoptions in Wisconsin. Jockey International was instrumental in the success of the event, presenting backpacks to all the children and offering the closing remarks.
Kerkman was recognized for his efforts to promote and raise awareness about adoption in Kenosha County. Judge Kerkman conducted the second annual Kenosha County Adoption Day on Nov. 9 at the courthouse in Kenosha at which 12 children were legally adopted.
“Today’s event was a joyful recognition of the dedication of these families and advocates to the children of our state,†said state Rep. Samantha Kerkman, Judge Kerkman’s wife, after the ceremony. “I’m proud of the work Chad has done to highlight adoption in Kenosha County and thrilled that his efforts were recognized today at the state level.â€
Judge Kerkman is serving his first term as a Circuit Court Judge in Kenosha County. He was elected in 2009 and is currently serving in the Family and Juvenile Court rotation.
