Deborah Lauseng is the 2025 recipient of the Starfish Thrower Award. The Starfish Thrower Award celebrates an HSLI member whose individual contributions have made a meaningful and lasting difference in the organization—reflecting the spirit of the story that inspired it, where one person’s actions can have a profound impact.
Deborah exemplifies this spirit through her quiet dedication and tireless work. As Chair of the Bylaws Committee, she is currently leading the important effort to update our organizational bylaws. She also plays a vital role on this year’s Conference Planning Committee, contributing across multiple subcommittees—including Continuing Education and Speakers, Program/Publicity/Website, and Registration.
Her behind-the-scenes efforts have been instrumental in ensuring the success of this year’s conference. Deborah consistently completes tasks with excellence and humility. In announcing the award at the 2025 HSLI conference, HSLI President Betsy Sterner noted “I’ve always appreciated her warm encouragement at in-person events—she’s someone who naturally helps others feel welcome and included.”