Audrey Cress will lead the unit that serves victims of crimes committed by offenders who are now under the supervision of the KDOC. The Office of Victim Services provides victims with information, resources, notification of changes in the status of offenders, and offers victims a voice in the corrections process.  During FY 2012, approximately 8,900 victims received services from the Office of Victim Services.

With experience in domestic violence and sexual assault, Cress brings diverse training to the position of director of the Office of Victim Services, said Roberts.

“Audrey has been involved in various aspects of advocacy and counseling, and she has a strong background as an educator,” said Roberts. “She will be highly motivated and passionate about providing the best possible service to the victims with whom we work.”

She has worked since 2007 with SAFEHOME, Inc., a non-profit Kansas organization that works to reduce domestic violence by offering shelter, advocacy, counseling and prevention education programs. She has also recently worked for The Family Conservancy, which promotes the healthy development of children.

"In my role as Education and Prevention Advocate at SAFEHOME, I had the privilege of working with the OVS to facilitate training to correctional staff across Kansas,” said Cress. “I look forward to leading a strong and committed team of advocates who provide high quality services to victims and survivors in our state. I am thrilled to have the opportunity to serve in this new capacity."

Cress holds a bachelor’s degree from Kansas State University in Family Studies and Human Services. She earned a master’s degree from Washington University in St. Louis in Women’s Issues.