RCC Sexual Violence Resource Center leader to receive award

MADISON, Wis. – Marsy’s Law for Wisconsin will recognize Dana Pellebon, a Madison crime victim advocate and Executive Director of the RCC Sexual Violence Resource Center, with its Champion of Crime Victims’ Rights Award, which honors professionals who have worked to strengthen the implementation and enforcement of victims’ rights in the criminal justice process. 

“Dana Pellebon has been relentless in her efforts to help survivors recover from the trauma of being victimized only to then be thrust into the criminal justice system through no fault of their own,” according to Nela Kalpic, state director for Marsy’s Law for Wisconsin. “Pellebon has dedicated her career to improving victims’ experiences and outcomes within the criminal justice system and outside of it as well.”

Through her work at the RCC, Pellebon has led an overhaul of client advocacy and counseling, brought licensed therapists on staff to provide free services to survivors in crisis, and most recently established a forensic nurse at RCC’s own office for a safe, neutral option for victims. She has been able to reach out to survivors who have been historically neglected out of services, and advocate for sustained funding of victim services in Wisconsin. 

Pellebon additionally co-chairs the Dane County Sexual Assault Response Team and the Coordinated Community Response Team, and works with law enforcement and prosecutors through the Sexual Assault Kit Initiative to make sure survivors are informed and supported at every stage of the justice process. She has consistently placed Marsy’s Law values at the forefront of her work, amplifying victims’ voices. 

“The Madison community is fortunate to have Dana Pellebon dedicated to upholding victims’ rights. Her ‘Champions of Crime Victims’ Rights’ award is well deserved,” said Kalpic.

The event will be at 3:30 p.m., Sept. 16, at the RCC Sexual Violence Resource Center, 2801 Coho Street, Suite 301, Madison. The event will also be livestreamed on the Marsy’s Law for Wisconsin Facebook page.

Media Note: For media who wish to schedule an interview with a representative from Marsy’s Law for Wisconsin or receive additional information, please contact Madelyn Hughes at mh@platform-communications.com.