Columbia’s Serve and Connect organization has recognized the College of Social Work and the West Columbia Police Department as recipients of the 2025 Serve & Connect Community Champion Award for their work with the Law Enforcement Assisted Diversion (LEAD) program. The award was presented at the annual Serve & Connect Illuminight gala on March 14, honoring individuals and organizations that make a lasting impact on public safety through community partnerships.

The Community Champion Award highlights those who work alongside law enforcement to address critical needs and increase access to resources. It is given annually to individuals and organizations that demonstrate a sustained commitment to public safety by creating solutions to community problems and strengthening relationships between law enforcement and the communities they serve.

This year’s award specifically recognized the efforts of West Columbia Police Chief Marion Boyce and faculty member Rhonda DiNovo for their leadership in advancing collaborative, community-based solutions to public safety.

The LEAD program is an initiative developed as a partnership between the college and the West Columbia Police Department and staffed by two social work alumni, Erin Flaxman and Sophie Sumpter. It diverts individuals struggling with substance use and other challenges away from the traditional criminal justice system and into supportive services. Through the partnership, social workers and law enforcement work together to provide resources and create ways to recovery.

“This award reflects our partnership in creating safer, healthier communities,” said Rhonda DiNovo. “By working together, LEAD is providing community-based alternatives to prosecution and incarceration and providing support to people with substance use and mental health challenges to help rebuild their lives.”

Serve and Connect, a partner of LEAD, is a nonprofit dedicated to strengthening relationships between police and the communities through community-led initiatives and support programs. The organization identifies needs and solutions to address the root causes of crime. This is the first time the College of Social Work and the West Columbia Police Department have received this honor, illustrating the impact of collaboration in advancing public safety and community well-being.