SUMMIT COUNTY, Ohio — The County of Summit Alcohol, Drug Addiction and Mental Health (ADM) Board will celebrate the 2025 Trailblazer Awards on Thursday, October 9, at the John S. Knight Center in downtown Akron.

Trailblazer Award recipients are recognized for their unwavering commitment to supporting mental health and recovery in Summit County.

The Dr. Bob Smith Innovation Award recognizes individuals who stand out for their creativity and innovation when treating and serving those with a substance use disorder. This year’s recipient isHonorable Joy Malek Oldfield, Summit County Court of Common Pleas.

The Drs. Fred & Penny Frese Education Award spotlights individuals who have made a significant, positive impact in educating others in an effort to decrease stigma that affects those with mental health disorders and substance use disorders. This year’s recipient is Dr. Eileen M. Schwartz, Medical Director Psychiatry, Community Support Services.

The Sister Ignatia Hope Award honors individuals who demonstrate compassion and kindness and who offer hope to inspire change in others. This year’s recipient is Lauren Munk, Prevention Coordinator at CHC Addiction Services.

The Maggie Carroll Smith Advocacy Award recognizes an individual who has demonstrated exceptional compassion for people in recovery and who have served as a results-focused agent of change. This year’s recipient is Chief Jerome T. Klue, Director of Public Safety and Chief of Police at Akron Children’s Hospital.

For more information about the Summit County ADM Board and the Trailblazer Awards dinner, visit admboard.org.