About the Academy

The New York State Victim Assistance Academy (NYSVAA) provides interdisciplinary, academically-based learning experiences for crime victim service providers, advocates and allied professionals. It provides a foundation in the principles and policies of victims’ rights work and a comprehensive set of skills, knowledge and resources to enable service providers to better meet the short and long-term needs of crime victims in New York State.

Buffalo State College hosted the first three six-day basic program of victim services education. Staying on campus provides students with an ideal academic setting and networking opportunities

Experts from victim services professions and academic faculty teach over 30 topics covering criminal justice systems, types of victimizations, the needs of special populations, mental health and vicarious trauma, case management and program administration. The core curriculum uses a variety of adult education teaching strategies including panels, workshops, discussions and exercises that complement classroom lectures. Participants receive the NYSVAA Textbook and Resource Manual with historical, theoretical, practical, statutory and resource information.

The NYS Victim Assistance Academy is modeled on the National Victim Assistance Academy (NVAA) that was piloted in 1995 as the centerpiece of the US Department of Justice’s efforts. New York State was one of three states selected by the Federal Office for Victims of Crime in 2003-04 to develop an intensive education and training academy founded on state laws, policies and practices governing services and remedies for victims of crime; one of the first 10 states in the nation to develop such an academy.

Academy Goals
The goals of the New York State Victim Assistance Academy (NYSVAA) are to improve direct services and outcomes for victims of crime, especially for populations that are not currently well-served. The academy will:

• Establish a statewide standard of knowledge and skills necessary to provide effective services to victims of crime
• Emphasize strong collaboration between victim service practitioners, criminal justice, law enforcement, policymakers, educators and researchers
• Lay a foundation for academic courses and degree programs in victim services
• Create opportunities for victim service professionals to earn credentials for professional development and improved careers opportunities
• Prepare New York State providers to respond to terrorism and other criminal threats to our safety both nationally and regionally