The Ohio Victim Witness Association (OVWA) has announced the election of new officers to its Board of Directors, reaffirming the organization’s commitment to advancing excellence in victim advocacy across Ohio. Ginger Young (The Childhood League Center) will continue as Board President, joined by newly elected Vice President Adam Kempf (Mental Health Recovery Board of Clark, Greene, Madison Counties), Secretary Lisa Duty, Ph.D. (Leadership Ohio), and returning Treasurer Courtney Kennedy. 

The OVWA board also welcomed four new members: Tommy Young (IMPACT Community Action), Kara Sprosty (Netcare Access), Lynanne Gutierrez (Groundwork Ohio), and Stephanie DeLuca (The MetroHealth System) – each bringing diverse expertise and deep dedication to serving some of Ohio’s most vulnerable populations. New members join incumbents Sheri Sweeney (Lake County Prosecutor Victim Assistance Program), Heather Katafiasz (University of Akron College of Health Professions), Carmela Daniels (Department of Veterans Affairs), and Victoria Frye (Oakmont Education LLC).

“OVWA is rooted in the belief that every survivor deserves to be heard, supported, and empowered,” said Ginger Young, President. “I am honored to continue this work alongside a board that is passionate, experienced, and fully committed to strengthening Ohio’s response to victims of crime.”

Through provision of training, policy leadership, and a strong network of professionals, OVWA empowers the advocates, prosecutors, and allied professionals who stand beside victims in their most vulnerable moments, impacting survivors of domestic violence, human trafficking, sexual assault, trauma, abuse and grieving families navigating loss of loved ones from violent crimes.

“I’m committed to amplifying the voices of victims and ensuring the professionals who serve them have the tools and resources they need,” said Adam Kempf, Vice President.

Dr. Lisa Duty, newly elected Secretary, emphasized the need for continued investment in the field. OVWA is an advocate for the preservation of VOCA (Victims of Crime Act) funds and is actively calling for a dedicated line item in the state budget to sustain and strengthen victim services providers. “The stakes are high, and OVWA’s mission has never been more urgent,” said Duty.

Courtney Kennedy, Treasurer, added: “Our work extends beyond support—it’s about public awareness, elevating best practices, and systems change across the state.”

With this new leadership team in place, OVWA is poised to deepen its impact in 2025 and beyond—ensuring that no victim walks alone, and every advocate is supported.