Human Development and Family Studies professor, Pat Fling, was was recognized as the top chief executive officer for mid-sized agencies at the National Big Brothers Big Sisters conference. Fling is the CEO and chapter president of Big Brothers Big Sisters of Northern Nevada.

Additionally, the Reno-based chapter of the non-profit organization was recently named a top-three finalist for mid-sized agencies in the United States out of 420 competing agencies.

"The award I received at the national Big Brothers Big Sisters conference is really an award for all of us," said Fling. "I'm only the public face that represents all the hard work, blood, sweat and tears that everyone here."

Big Brothers Big Sisters of Northern Nevada was founded by Fling in 2001. Since that time she has lead the organization to become one of the top 35 performing Big Brothers Big Sisters agencies in the country, garnering support from the community and experiencing double-digit increases in the percentage of children served each year. The 104-year-old national organization chose the northern Nevada agency as a finalist in recognition of its sustained, successful match growth, in which child partnering and revenue both increased by 40 percent in 2006. The agency served 652 children locally and is on track to serve at least 750 in 2007.

For more information on Big Brothers Big Sisters of Northern Nevada, including volunteer, donation and career opportunities, visit Big Brothers Big Sisters of Northern Nevada or call (775) 352-3202.

Big Brothers Big Sisters of Northern Nevada is a 501 (c)(3) organization serving Reno-Sparks, Carson City and the Carson Valley. Established in 2001, Big Brothers Big Sisters of Northern Nevada's goal is to provide a successful mentoring relationship for all children who need and want one, contributing to brighter futures, better schools and stronger communities for all.