WASHINGTON (January 25, 2016) -- The newest civilian aide to the secretary of the Army (CASA) was invested during a ceremony conducted earlier this month at the Pentagon. M. Janet was selected by former Secretary of the Army Eric K. Fanning for the California (Greater Los Angeles) region.

"I am truly honored to be invested with this esteemed new group of CASA's through Secretary Fanning's move to expand the CASA program," Chin said. "As an Army vet, there is no better way to give back than to serve our Army as a CASA -- we invest in our soldiers -- past, present and future."

CASAs are a vital part of the Army, promoting good relations between the Army and the public and advising the Secretary about regional issues.

Each state, the District of Columbia and the five U.S. territories have one or more CASAs appointed to provide a vital link between the Army and the communities for which they serve. CASAs are usually business or civic leaders who possess a keen interest in the welfare of the Army and their communities.

Chin is a graduate of the Santa Monica College School of Entertainment Business Industry, where she majored in business and communications; and she is also a graduate of the Masters In Governance-CSBA (California School Boards Association).

CASAs serve a two-year term without compensation. Terms may be extended to a total of 10 years of service. The secretary may recognize a civilian aide as a CASA Emeritus after 10 years of distinguished service.