Liz Betz

Executive Director

Liz became the executive director of Capital Area CASA Association in 1993.  She holds a Bachelor of Science degree from Louisiana State University and her professional experience includes sixteen years with not-for-profit, volunteer-based organizations.  During her tenure with CASA, the program has grown to provide more than 600 volunteer advocates for more than 1,200 children.

"People often ask me how I do this work – they assume it is depressing to work with abused children.  That mindset always surprises me because what I do is far from depressing.  To feel powerless to help abused and neglected children would be depressing.  To know you can mobilize the community to make a difference is extremely rewarding. "

Margaret Bonham

Training Coordinator

From Houston, Texas, Margaret joined CASA's staff in January to assist with the program's quarterly training courses for new volunteers. A senior public relations major at Louisiana State University, Margaret will graduate in May 2008. Margaret recently completed a marketing internship with CASA, and hopes to continue with a career in public relations in the non-profit sector after graduation.

"My work with CASA has helped me to learn how much you can enjoy your career if you're working for a cause you truly believe in."  

Lisa Catanese

Administrative Assistant

A native of Baker, Louisiana, Lisa joined the Capital Area CASA staff in February 2007. Bringing with her 10 years of accounting experience, Lisa is also working on an Associates Degree in General Studies with a concentration in Business from Baton Rouge Community College. As administrative assistant, Lisa handles CASA's bookkeeping and assists with all fundraising efforts.

"Children should always know that somebody is on their side. I'm proud to be part of an organization that's focus is being there."

Ricketta Cotton-Monroe

Advocate Supervisor

After earning a Bachelor’s Degree in Child and Family Studies from the University of Louisiana at Lafayette, Ricketta began her career serving children in need in Houston.  After returning to Baton Rouge, she joined the CASA staff in March 2002.  As an advocate supervisor, Ricketta oversees the advocacy efforts of CASA volunteers as they speak for the best interests of abused and neglected children.

"I strongly believe that children are our most valuable resource and we must do everything in our power to preserve and protect them."

Sheila Gross

Advocate Supervisor

Sheila joined Capital Area CASA Association in 2006.  She holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Sociology from Southern University and her 10 years of professional experience include work in court environments and children's case management. Her role as advocate supervisor is to guide CASA volunteers' efforts as they work to help abused and neglected children reach permanent, safe and stable homes.

"Children are our future and we must find a way to protect them. CASA lends that helping hand to abused and neglected children. "

Christy Kayser

Recruitment Coordinator

As a Kappa Alpha Theta alumnae, Christy is a longtime supporter of CASA. A CASA staff member since July 2006, Christy works throughout the community to increase awareness of CASA and recruit volunteer advocates to serve as voices for the children we serve. She earned her undergraduate degree in English and psychology from Westminster College in Missouri.

"It is so important for a child to know that someone cares about his or her well-being. CASA is a way of giving a child comfort and assurance in a time of instability."

Kristi LaMattery

Advocate Supervisor

Kristi joined the Capital Area CASA Association staff as an advocate supervisor in July of 2005. A former CASA volunteer, she brings more than 13 years of work experience and 10 years of volunteer experience to her role at CASA. Her background includes seven years of collegiate philosophy training, with study at Louisiana State University, the University of San Diego and St. Clair’s in Oxford, England.

"CASA is about respecting the unique experience of each child, validating them and showing them their futures are not hopeless. Their resiliency teaches me about the strength of a survivor."

Susan Murrell Martin

Advocate Supervisor

Susan brings 16 years of working with child victims of domestic violence to her position at CASA, which she began in January 2004. Susan is passionate about her belief that children deserve safety, nurturing and a permanent home in which to grow and develop.

"Children can never have too many good people in their lives."

Tony J. Pryer

Advocate Supervisor

Tony received a Bachelor of Science degree in Social Work from Southeastern Louisiana University.  He previously worked as a social work supervisor for a residential treatment facility for male youth.  An advocate supervisor since April 2001, Tony was named the Louisiana CASA Association Program Staff Member of the Year in 2003.

"Children need to be able to grow and thrive in an environment that’s conducive to their well-being.  CASA helps  make that happen."