Christine Ward

Christine Ward has been a leading advocate for victims’ rights and services for more than 30 years. As Executive Director of Crime Victims Alliance and a survivor of violent crime, she understands the critical importance of ensuring victims have access to essential services and protections throughout the criminal justice system and beyond.

Christine has championed smarter, stronger laws to enhance public safety and worked extensively with the California State Legislature and multiple Governors to advance victims’ rights. She believes every victim’s voice should be heard.

To unite advocates passionate about improving the lives of victims and driving systemic change, Christine founded the Victims’ Rights and Policy Consortium. She is a sought-after speaker and trainer on topics including victim advocacy, compassion fatigue, and trauma-informed care.

Christine holds a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology and a Master’s in Public Administration with an emphasis on nonprofit management. Her leadership spans decades of work within the California parole hearing system, assisting victims through hearings, touring California prisons to engage with correctional staff, and collaborating with CDCR Secretaries on issues impacting victims. She has also partnered with law enforcement agencies nationwide to train officers and improve victim response.

In addition to her role at Crime Victims Alliance, Christine serves as Executive Director of Crime Victims Assistance Network (I-CAN) and President of Citizens for Law and Order. She has held gubernatorial appointments to the California Council on Criminal Justice and the Domestic Violence Advisory Council, and currently serves on the Advisory Board of the California Victim Compensation Board.

Her dedication has earned numerous honors, including the California Governor’s Crime Victim Advocacy Award, recognition from the California District Attorneys Association, and a Special Recognition Award from the Trenton Police Department.