FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE April 28, 2011

Contact: Jeff Wagaman 785-296-3459 jeff.wagaman@ksag.org

Brungardts honored at Victims’ Rights Conference

WICHITA – (April 28, 2011) – Curt and Christie Brungardt of Hays were honored today as State Champions for Victims Rights at the 14th Annual Crime Victim's Rights Conference in Wichita. Attorney General Derek Schmidt presented the award in recognition of the Brungardt’s personal mission of reducing violence against women.

"Curt and Christie have worked tirelessly to prevent domestic violence, across the state and around the country," Schmidt said. "Their efforts have increased awareness and helped develop policies to reduce acts of violence in our state."

The Brungardts came to this work in the most tragic of ways – with the death of their daughter, Jana Mackey, in an act of domestic violence. They founded Jana's Campaign to share Jana’s story in hopes of reducing violence against women. The Brungardts have also organized the 1,100 Torches campaign to recruit community volunteers. So far, they have recruited nearly 400 volunteers in 17 states and four foreign countries. The Brungardts also recently developed the Women's Leadership Project at Fort Hays State University to educate and develop young female leaders.

As co-chairs of the Batterer Intervention Program Advisory Board, the Brungardts helped develop intervention programs that are being implemented throughout the state. They regularly travel throughout the country, sharing Jana's story and bringing awareness to domestic violence.

The Crime Victims' Rights Conference was hosted by Attorney General Schmidt and Governor Sam Brownback. The conference featured a number of speakers and trainers focused on new and innovative ways to assist the victims of crime.