2025 Award Recipients

UPAWS is excited to announce the recipients of our 2025 Awards to honor animals, individuals, and programs! The awards will be presented at the Cause for Paws UPAWS 50th Anniversary Gala on Saturday, April 5 at the Holiday Inn, Marquette. We received many deserving and amazing nominations and truly appreciate the support from the community and all the nominees. Thank You!

The 2025 Assisi Award is being presented to Jeanie Wilcox for her enduring dedication to the health and well-being of all animals and for making a significant impact on the mission of UPAWS.

The 2025 Silver Tag Award is being presented to Welles for his longtime service as a service and therapy dog and his presence on NMU campus and in the community offering a comforting and supportive presence.

The 2025 Legacy Award is being presented in honor of Sally Paajanen. Honoring Sally’s life and passion for helping all animals. In Memory of Sally Paajanen “Sally’s Fund” has been developed through friends and family to foster horse protection and education throughout the region. The establishment of “Sally’s Fund” managed by UPAWS, offers equines throughout the region the protection they deserve and also creates equine education opportunities to prevent unnecessary neglect.

2025 Certificates of Appreciation are being presented to Kim & Rick Custard of TacoMo Dog Training and to Sue Kapla of Canine Consultants Behavior & Training Center in recognition of their lasting contributions and dedication to the animals of UPAWS.

Congratulations to the award winners – We cannot wait to celebrate at the Cause for Paws Gala!

Click here to purchase tickets to the Cause For Paws Gala on Saturday, April 5, 2025 at the Holiday Inn, Marquette.