Attending the Academy
The Tommy Burks Victim Assistance Academy training is appropriate for individuals working in victim advocacy programs, prosecutors’ offices, law enforcement, probation, corrections, emergency responders, domestic and sexual violence programs, child advocacy centers and other victim service agencies. The Academy is also appropriate for students who are interested in the field of victimology. The training addresses issues specific to Tennessee crime victims and offers people who are new to the field of victim advocacy opportunities to expand their skills and knowledge of Tennessee law by learning from experts and each other.
The 2025 in-person Academy will take place June 1st-6th, 2025 at the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga.
A limited number of applicants are accepted to attend each year. Applications for the 2025 Academy will be accepted December 2024 – March 2025.
Summary of qualifications:
YOU are the ideal candidate for the Tommy Burks Victim Assistance Academy training if you:
- Have worked in the field as a paid employee OR as a volunteer for less than five (5) years
- Have worked directly with crime victims
- Are willing to commit to attending the week-long, 40-hour Academy training (Sunday evening-Friday afternoon)
What about cost?
The Academy is free to all attendees, and a limited number of attendees may also qualify for travel expense reimbursement and free lodging during the Academy as well.
How to Apply
The application window for the 2025 Tommy Burks Academy will be open December 1st, 2024 through March 29th, 2025.
Have questions about the Academy? Email academy@tncoalition.org.
What former students have to say about the Academy
“I absolutely loved the academy. I cannot stop talking about it with friends and family. I feel very blessed with the opportunity to take this course before I go into the field.”
“I truly enjoyed the entire week of training, presentations, and meeting new people to collaborate with.”
“My toolbox is full of new and helpful tools. I will approach every client with more sensitivity and understanding.”
“I’m taking home with me a lot of resources, processes, and research [about] what I as an advocate can do.”
“Loved the combination of group think and lecture.”
“This was amazing!”
Reach us 8am-5pm Monday through Thursday at our phone number: 615-386-9406
24-hour State-Wide Domestic Violence Hotline- 1-800-356-6767
This project is funded under an agreement with the State of Tennessee, Finance and Administration, Office of Criminal Justice Programs. The opinions, findings, conclusions or recommendations contained within this website are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of the State of Tennessee.