The fourth annual Yezbak Award was given to Stephen Leicht for his dedication to the Children’s Trust mission.
Stephen Leicht introduced the keynote speaker at the 2019 Home Visiting Summit.
Stephen Leicht, the former chair of the Children’s Trust board of directors, was presented the Yezbak Award for his service to the organization at the September board meeting.
The award, which is named for former board chair David Yezbak, highlights Leicht’s commitment to the prevention of child abuse and neglect in South Carolina.
“It is an enormous personal honor to be bestowed with the David Yezbak award. I cannot speak highly enough of David Yezbak personally. He was my mentor, and he served as an inspirational leader,” Leicht said.
Sue Williams
Children’s Trust CEO Sue Williams acknowledged Leicht’s significant accomplishments over a five-year period. Leicht served as a true advocate for the organization’s prevention programs and strategies that play a part in creating better conditions for healthy and safe children, strong families, and resilient communities across South Carolina.
“Stephen has fully demonstrated all that the Yezbak Award represents in his commitment to Children’s Trust,” Williams said. “He always goes above and beyond, leading by example and doing whatever he can to ensure Children’s Trust succeeds.”
Leicht is the fourth recipient of the annual award. Jane Pulling (2018), Elizabeth Gressette (2019) and Tiffany Santagati (2020) were named the winners in the award’s first three years of existence.
“Additionally, I am honored to be recognized with past winners and colleagues,” Leicht said. “All were long-time ambassadors, supporters, donors, and evangelists for Children’s Trust. Because of our overlapping time on the board, I am particularly honored to call them my friends.”
Steven Moon
Children’s Trust board member Steven Moon noted the award recognizes one whose dedication and leadership transcend typical service to the organization. Moon added that Leicht, in his role as board chair, kept a focus on the current mission without losing the long-term view. He also helped fellow members work more efficiently and effectively while standardizing operations.
“His interest and commitment to the mission of Children’s Trust is evidenced by his actions in putting his time and effort into leadership and stewardship,” Moon said. “He actively engaged other board members in service of both time and resources. He contributed – and still does – financially at a leadership level.”
Leicht is most thankful for the work the organization’s staff members are doing daily to ensure that prevention programs are being delivered to a high standard through its local grantees across the state.
“I am conscious that the real heroes of Children’s Trust are the staff and the incredible organizations and individuals they support,” Leicht said. “It is the personal sacrifice of our staff to serve our children and families – highlighted during the pandemic period – that is truly remarkable. The staff has my most cherished trust, gratitude and admiration.”
