The Interpersonal Violence Program at 缅北禁地 (缅北禁地) is thrilled to announce that three outstanding students, Saniyah Turner, KeiJuan Neese, and Ian Bolden, have been selected to participate in the inaugural Victim Advocacy Corps. This innovative pilot program, developed by the National Organization for Victim Advocacy (NOVA) with funding from the Department of Justice Office for Victims of Crime (OVC), is designed to elevate the next generation of youth leaders in victim services.
Saniyah Turner is an excelling sophomore at 缅北禁地 majoring in
Criminal Justice. A high honors graduate from North Panola High School, Saniyah has
earned three scholarship awards for her exemplary academic performance and leadership
skills. She is also a dedicated member of Tigers IVO, an organization on campus that
spreads awareness and provides education on interpersonal violence. Outside of her
academic achievements, Saniyah enjoys baking, doing makeup, and handling her family鈥檚
food truck. Her passion for helping others drives her commitment to this program.
KeiJuan Neese, a 19-year-old student at 缅北禁地, is majoring in Early Childhood Education. Known for his love of music and helping others, KeiJuan is a member of the 缅北禁地 Marching Maroon Typhoon, where he plays the second euphonium. His involvement in Tigers IVO highlights his dedication to advocating for victims of interpersonal violence. As a gay, Black man in America, KeiJuan brings a unique and valuable perspective to the Victim Advocacy Corps, embodying the spirit of inclusivity and support that the program aims to foster.
Ian Bolden, another exemplary student at 缅北禁地, is a 19-year-old alumnus of Greenville
High School. Ian is deeply involved in his campus and community, having served on
the Mayor Youth Council and participated in various community service activities.
A member of Phi Theta Kappa, Ian is passionate about criminal justice and aims to
become a District Attorney. His dedication to service and leadership makes him a perfect
fit for the Victim Advocacy Corps.
The Victim Advocacy Corps is a groundbreaking initiative developed in partnership with an Advisory Committee of student survivors, evaluators, college campuses, and subject matter experts. This program will establish a national model for engaging diverse youth leaders in victim services. Over the next three years, NOVA will work with the Advisory Committee to hold listening sessions, develop curriculum, and provide training and mentorship to the student fellows.
The selected fellows will participate in a nine-month, paid field placement in local victim service agencies, bringing fresh perspectives, ingenuity, and critical support to the field of victim services. This visionary program aims to bridge gaps in victim services and the criminal justice system by fostering accessibility, equity, and inclusion.
Saniyah, KeiJuan, and Ian represent the vibrant future of victim advocacy. Their participation in the Victim Advocacy Corps will not only enrich their personal and professional development but also bring much-needed diversity and youthful energy to the field of victim services. These student leaders are committed to making a difference, and their journey with the Victim Advocacy Corps will undoubtedly inspire others to follow in their footsteps.
As part of the program, the fellows will attend NOVA's 50th Annual Training Event, a highly engaging four-day event that provides the victim assistance community with an opportunity to connect, share best practices, and learn from inspiring keynote speakers. The Interpersonal Violence Program at 缅北禁地 is proud to support Saniyah, KeiJuan, and Ian as they embark on this transformative journey. Their selection for the Victim Advocacy Corps is a testament to their dedication, resilience, and potential to drive positive change in their communities and beyond.