MEMA December 3rd, 2025  Meeting!

​

Hosted at: Bloomington FD #1

Speakers: Suzanne Elwel & Dawn Shewmaker, "Office of Justice Programs Presentation Overview"

Networking starts at 9:30am

Meeting starts at 10:00am

*”A virtual link is emailed to members only”

​

 
December Presentation and Speaker Bios

Office of Justice Programs Presentation Overview:
The recent mass victimization incident (MVI) at Annunciation Church has brought the role of victim service professionals in MVI response planning to the forefront. This presentation will discuss the MVI response planning efforts by Office of Justice Programs (OJP) prior to the event, particularly with regard to increasing the capacity of victim service providers to assist in an MVI response, and the continued efforts of OJP moving forward. The presentation will review the resources available to victims from OJP and the role of OJP in applying for federal funds that can be used for response and recovery efforts following an MVI.  The presenters will describe the role OJP took in the recent MVI incident including a presence at the emergency operation center and staffing at the family and neighborhood assistance centers. The presenters will share how this experience has reshaped OJP’s view about its role in an MVI and has informed and re-energize its efforts to increase the capacity of victim service providers to respond to an MVI in their community.
 
Suzanne Elwell
Suzanne Elwell is the director of the Crime Victim Justice Unit in the Minnesota Office of Justice Programs, a victim rights ombudsman’s office that investigates complaints of crime victim rights violations and victim mistreatment. In addition to responding to victim complaints and concerns, she trains on crime victim related issues, coordinates and participates on statewide multi-disciplinary efforts and teams, and assists with legislative initiatives related to crime victims. Suzanne has been working in the area of crime victimization for over 30 years, with experience spanning prosecution, domestic violence advocacy and legal assistance, and court monitoring and research. Suzanne is a graduate of the University of Iowa College of Law.
 
Dawn Shewmaker
Dawn was born and raised in North Dakota and went to the University of North Dakota, graduating with degrees in criminal justice and psychology. Following graduation, she worked as a correctional officer in her home state and then moved to Oregon to work for the Federal Bureau of Prisons.  During her almost 18 years with the federal government, Dawn worked in victim services for the U.S. Air Force (Massachusetts), the U.S Attorney’s Office (Alaska), and the National Guard (Minnesota).  While working for the Air Force, she went back to school and obtained her Masters in Social Work.  Dawn has lived in Minnesota since the end of 2022, lives with her soul dog, Demeter, and enjoys exploring the many parks the area has to offer. She has been with the Crime Victim Justice Unit since July 30, 2025.