A Governor’s Victim Service Pathfinder Award is the most prestigious award that Pennsylvania gives to a victim service professional or program.  The award may be presented to one program and up to seven individuals who have made notable contributions to the program for which they work, the community they serve, or the field of victim services. 

The 2018 Governor’s Victim Service Pathfinder Awards are normally presented at the Pathways Conference. However, since the conference will not be held this year, the awards will be presented at an event of the nominator and winner's preference.  This will provide an opportunity to have the award winners recognized in their own community where their elected officials, board members, family, friends, and peers can easily attend.  The award presentations may be held anytime, with the event being as small or as large as the nominator and/or nominee would like.  It could be held during a local Victims' Rights Week event, at an annual board meeting, a special event, a County Commissioners meeting, or as a presentation in the office.  The nominator is responsible for coordinating the event and notifying PCCD of the date and location.  A PCCD staff member or a Victims' Services Advisory Committee (VSAC) member will attend the event to present the award to the recipient.  

The selection process for recipients of the Governor’s Victim Service Pathfinder Award is highly competitive.  To be considered, each nomination must meet the criteria and eligibility exactly as outlined.  

View photos and accomplishments of past Governor’s Victim Services Pathfinder Award Recipients. 

Submitting a Nomination

Pathfinder nominations will be performed via an electronic submission process.

• Nomination Packet Requirements (PDF)
• Criteria and Eligibility for Award Categories (PDF)
• Submit applications

Need Assistance?

For questions regarding the nominations, contact:      
Heather Hewitt
e-mail:  hhewitt@pa.gov

Phone:  (717) 265-8730