Laura Sudkamp Receives NSVRC Visionary Voice Award for Outstanding Advocacy in Ending Sexual Violence
Frankfort, KY – Laura Sudkamp, a trailblazing advocate nominated by the Kentucky Association of Sexual Assault Programs (KASAP), has been honored with the prestigious Visionary Voice Award by the National Sexual Violence Resource Center (NSVRC). Sudkamp’s remarkable career spanning nearly three decades, marked by unwavering dedication and groundbreaking initiatives, has made an indelible impact on the fight against sexual violence.
Laura Sudkamp’s journey began at the Kentucky State Police Central Crime Lab, where she served with distinction for nearly 30 years, culminating in her retirement as the Director of the Forensic Services Division in 2023. Her pivotal role in addressing the Sexual Assault Forensic Evidence kit backlog in Kentucky, which commenced in 2015, underscored her commitment to justice and survivor empowerment.
Sudkamp’s initiative and persistence were instrumental in initiating the statewide effort to address the backlog of untested sexual assault evidence kits. Her pivotal question, “where are the kits?” sparked a comprehensive audit in collaboration with the Attorney General’s office, revealing over 2,000 untested kits languishing in law enforcement evidence rooms across the state.
In collaboration with her team, Sudkamp secured funding to eliminate the backlog and expand testing to include kits dating back to the 1970s, resulting in testing about 5,000 kits. Recognizing the profound impact on survivors, Sudkamp championed a trauma-informed notification process, working closely with law enforcement and advocates to ensure survivors were informed and empowered throughout the process.
Moreover, Sudkamp’s advocacy extended to the creation of the KSP SAFE Kit Tracking Portal, in collaboration with KASAP and legislators. This innovative platform not only empowered survivors to track the status and results of their kits but also instituted crucial oversight mechanisms to prevent future backlogs and ensure accountability within the forensic evidence collection and testing systems.
Beyond her instrumental role in addressing the backlog, Sudkamp’s leadership has facilitated the growth and enhancement of the Forensic Services Division, resulting in decreased testing times and the incorporation of rapid DNA testing. Her tireless advocacy, mentorship, and allyship have been instrumental in ensuring that survivors who choose to submit forensic evidence are heard, respected, and supported.
Missie Quillen, Executive Director of KASAP, remarked, “Laura Sudkamp’s dedication and leadership have been instrumental in advancing the movement to end sexual violence in Kentucky. Her tireless efforts have not only brought justice to survivors but have also transformed systems to ensure accountability and prevention. We are proud to nominate Laura for the Visionary Voice Award and celebrate her unwavering commitment to creating safer communities for all.”
Laura Sudkamp’s exemplary dedication and advocacy embody the spirit of the Visionary Voice Award, inspiring hope and catalyzing change in the movement to end sexual violence.
Media Contact:
Missie Quillen
Executive Director
Kentucky Organization of Sexual Assault Programs
+1 (502) 226-2704
mquillen@kasap.org
About the National Sexual Violence Resource Center (NSVRC): The National Sexual Violence Resource Center (NSVRC) is the leading nonprofit organization providing information and tools to prevent and respond to sexual violence. NSVRC translates research and trends into best practices that help individuals, communities, and service providers achieve real and lasting change. For more information, visit www.nsvrc.org.
About the Kentucky Association of Sexual Assault Programs (KASAP): The Kentucky Association of Sexual Assault Programs (KASAP) is the coalition of Kentucky’s 13 regional rape crisis centers and the Kentucky Foundation for Women. KASAP’s mission is to speak with one voice against sexual victimization. KASAP’s objectives include providing technical assistance and training to member programs, conducting public education and awareness, and advocating for public policies that prevent sexual violence and provide justice and healing for victims. For more information, visit www.kasap.org.
