LSPA Legislative Staff Achievement Award

Debra Childs

Deputy Chief of Staff, Speaker's Office, New Hampshire House of Representatives 

Debra Childs began her legislative staff service as deputy chief of staff in December 2020, in what would be tumultuous times for the New Hampshire House of Representatives. Following the passing of newly elected Speaker and personal friend, Dick Hinch, Debra was thrust into the busiest time of the legislative term, needing to quickly assimilate in order to meet the demands of the institution and her position.

She brought years of private sector senior management, non-profit management, and entrepreneurial experience and quickly identified ways to do things bettering the Speaker's office. She has been a resource for continuous improvements within the office and throughout legislative operations. She has developed systems to manage the body's appointment process for over 200 committees and commissions. She has developed internal policies that help us better serve the needs of our members. She has worked with our technology services team to develop new tools for staff to utilize to help streamline processes. She has developed valuable documentation to ensure continuity in services in the event of a transition of staff or administrations.

She is a team leader and has earned the respect and gratitude of staff and elected members from across the institution. She selflessly endures a long commute and works at all hours of the day and night to make sure the work is done. She is often the first one in the office and the last to leave. Her job extends beyond the office walls but she willingly fields communications at all hours to ensure that all members and staff have the tools and resources they need to do their job to their best ability.

She is a frequent participant in NCSL events where she embraces all opportunities to learn and grow into her role as deputy chief of staff. She has traveled to multiple conferences where she has been able to share her experiences working with New Hampshire’s 400 House members.

She did not seek out legislative employment but heeded the call to public service when recruited to serve in her current position. She has been indispensable to the institution; to our House members, legislative staff and to the People of New Hampshire. She is an exemplary legislative staff leader and I nominate her for this award with the highest accolades.

Sara Kalaoram

Chief of Staff, Office of the Speaker, Nevada State Assembly

Sara Kalaoram is an accomplished government strategist currently serving as chief of staff to Steve Yeager,  the Speaker of the Nevada Assembly. With a diverse background in political roles, including communications director for the Assembly Democrats and campaign manager, she brings a unique perspective to her leadership position. Her experience extends to working with one of Nevada's largest unions in research, communications, and political operations.

A graduate of Arizona State University, she is recognized as the first Asian American woman to hold the role of chief of staff in Nevada and is among the youngest in both state and congressional government service. Her dedication to intentional policy-making and innovative leadership has been pivotal in ensuring home means Nevada to all.