Valina is a Policy Development Coordinator in the Criminal Justice Policy and Planning Division, where she utilizes her extensive experience in victim services to create impactful legislative and policy recommendations. With a diverse background in victim services, including serving as the Deputy Director at the State of CT Office of Victim Services, she has been a dedicated advocate for crime victims and their families for over 25 years.  Additionally, Valina shared her expertise as an adjunct professor at the University of New Haven's Henry C. Lee College of Criminal Justice, specializing in victims’ rights and service administration. Valina is not only a leader in her field, but also a tireless advocate, committed to making a meaningful difference through her work and educational initiatives. She holds a Master of Arts from Wesleyan University and a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology and Sociology from Smith College.