Nominated by: NAMI Anne Arundel County

In times of hopelessness, one voice has brought compassion, optimism, and healing to others — that voice belongs to Rosamond (Roz) Dove. For 18 years, 24/7, Roz has been the steady, calming, and reassuring counsel when someone in crisis needs to feel heard. As the sole person who manages the National Alliance on Mental Illness/Anne Arundel County (NAMI AAC) Warmline, Roz has been the heroine for many — including people suffering from mental challenges, and their family members. Beyond the Warmline, Roz has been deeply involved with NAMI AAC as a past president, board member (serving in all executive roles except treasurer), support group and Family-to-Family facilitator, and member of the gala, nominating, NAMIWalks, and advocacy committees. Roz also served six years on the NAMI Maryland State Board and 15 years on the NAMI Maryland Government Board where she helped investigate deaths in mental health facilities.

“Roz Dove is a woman of strength and courage who gives a loving and encouraging word to all,” said nominator and NAMI AAC Executive Director Fred Delp. “She is the first point of contact for those seeking information and resources for families and individuals with a mental health challenge, many of whom are in crisis.”

NAMI AAC Board President Kia Chandler, Esq. agreed, “Roz has become a wealth of information for all. She is able to bring together various businesses and organizations that share a similar mission as NAMI and provide those resources to county residents.”

In 2024, NAMI AAC presented Roz with a newly created “Special Recognition Award” at its Mental Health Gala and Awards Dinner. She was the first to be honored with this award where she was recognized for her dedication, commitment, love, passion, and extraordinary years of service to NAMI AAC.

“Roz Dove is more than a volunteer; she is a lifeline, a mentor, and a symbol of enduring compassion,” said Jill DePaola, who first met Roz at the Family-to-Family course she and her husband attended after her son, Bo, was diagnosed with a serious mental illness. “Her impact on our lives — and on the lives of so many others — is profound and lasting. For 12 weeks, Roz guided us with patience, wisdom, and compassion, helping us understand the illness, navigate resources, and feel less alone. Her support during that time was invaluable.”

Roz also guided Jill and her husband, John, through the darkest of times when Bo passed away from an accidental overdose. In their grief, they created a mental health awareness fundraiser in his honor. “Without fail, Roz has shown up — volunteering, managing the NAMI information tent, and gently offering words of hope and understanding to individuals and families facing mental health challenges,” said Jill. “Her presence has been both a comfort and a source of strength.”

Beyond NAMI, Roz has dedicated decades to service, including 17 years on The Key School board, lifetime and board member of the National Garden Club, and active involvement in various horse and dog clubs. She lives in her childhood Annapolis home with her husband Jay and their dogs. She has two grown children and two grandchildren.