Tess Fletcher, Executive Director
Tess Fletcher is the Executive Director of the Children’s Advocacy Alliance. She earned her bachelor’s degree from Central Baptist College in management information systems and her master’s degree from Arkansas State University in public administration.
Tess currently serves on the board of directors for Children’s Advocacy Centers of Arkansas and is president of the Conway Morning Rotary Club. She was born and raised in Louisiana and moved to Conway to attend college. Tess resides in Conway with her husband, Eric, and two children
Vacancy, Development Coordinator
Coming soon.
Lisa Johnston, Forensic Interviewer/Family Advocate
I’m finishing my BS with a double major of Sociology and Criminology, graduation in May. Honor societies for both of those. Former Girl Scout leader. Mom of three daughters. Volunteer my time when I can. Was a stay at home mom prior to finishing my degree work. Intern turned Clinical Coordinator. I LOVE all things music and believe in laughter. I’m honored to do my small part in order to help the kids and families we see begin to get their lives back on track.
I’ve been married to my husband for 16 years and settled in Conway when we got married. Originally from Kirby, Arkansas which is in the southwest part of the state. Prior to going back to school I was also an Escalation Manager for Hewlett Packard.
Vacancy, Family Advocate/Forensic Interviewer
Coming soon.
Deb Kennemer, Lead CASA Coordinator
Deb is the Lead Advocate Supervisor of the CASA program. She began volunteering for the CASA program in 2002 and became a staff member in 2010. Deb has a heart for the children we serve; she is always working in their best interest. She is originally from California and has been married to Joe Kennemer for 18 years. Between them, they have 5 grown children, 14 grandkids, and 2 great grandbabies. She also loves her many dogs, cats, and horses. She chose this line of work in hopes she could help kids. Deb is dedicated to finding a way to provide advocates for every child in our district. She is for the abused, neglected, and forgotten child. “I love working with the kids and families, I just hate the reasons we have to.”
Leia Smith, Outreach and Marketing Coordinator
Leia Smith is a Development Intern for the Children’s Advocacy Alliance. She has a degree in Early Childhood Education from the North American Montessori Center. She is currently studying Public Relations and Communication at the University of Central Arkansas. She has been working with the CAA since February of 2016.Leia is an avid advocate for children in our community. “These kids just need someone to be a support system in their lives; they deserve more than anyone can give. The best we can do is make an active effort to be their voice, their support, and their guiding light to a safe and permeate home.”
Debra Lance, Office Manager
Debra is an Advocate Supervisor with the CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocates) Program. She has been a part of CASA for 6 years and loves meeting new people and helping children in need. Debra chose this profession to help those children who are in need of safe permanent homes find their forever home.
Debra is originally from Whittier, CA and loves spending time with her Parrot, Sweetie, and being involved with her church. Debra’s favorite motto she relishes is having the faith of a mustard seed.
Jessica Hess, CASA Supervisor
I will be graduating Spring 2018 with a BA in Interdisciplinary Studies, emphasis: Social Work, Psychology, Sociology. I have always been determined to pursue a career that focuses on making a positive impact. When I heard about CAA’s mission to be a voice for the unheard abused and neglected children, I knew I wanted to get involved. Seeing what these children go through is tough on the heart but being a part of helping to bring hope into their lives is a huge blessing.
I am passionate about three things: traveling, exploring the outdoors, and kindness. I, truly, believe that even the smallest act of compassion and kindness will move mountains. I am grateful to work alongside a group of people who all share the same passion of kindness.
Jasmin Joseph, CASA Supervisor
Colossians 3:12 “So, as those who have been chosen of God, holy and beloved, put on a heart of compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience.”
I am currently attending Central Baptist College to obtain a B.S. in Psychology. I initially started as a CASA volunteer before being presented with the opportunity to become a staff member at Children’s Advocacy Alliance as a CASA Coordinator. I am originally from a small town in McCrory, AR. and moved to Conway in 1997. After moving to Conway, I was blessed to meet my husband, the Chef, who I have been married to for 16yrs. I have lived in Chicago, IL and Longview, TX. but somehow, kept making my way back to Arkansas and now I have a purpose that keeps me grounded here. Working for the Children’s Advocacy Alliance has touched my heart and given my life better meaning.Growing up my mom noticed how empathetic I was towards those around me and so she would say “you know you can’t fix everyone’s problems” this is true but if I can only provide hope, care, and compassion to just one I will have given that one hope and joy when before they felt hopeless and helpless.
The Children’s Advocacy Alliance gives that voice to the voiceless and I am honored to be a part of an organization that has a HEART!
