Our Team

Cindy Brew, Executive Director

Cindy Brew joined the Children’s Advocacy Center in 2020, bringing over 21 years of experience in victim services. She began her journey as a volunteer supporting crime survivors and has since built a robust career in the field. Cindy’s expertise includes program development, public speaking, fundraising, grant management, team engagement, trauma-informed care, leadership, and providing direct services as an advocate. She leads with empathy and a growth mindset, often reiterating:

“You are allowed to be both a masterpiece and a work in progress, simultaneously.” — Sophia Bush

Leanne Biltz, Assistant Director

Leanne Biltz joined the CAC in 2022, bringing over a decade of experience in victim advocacy. She began her work with survivors of crime in the field of community corrections after earning her Bachelor’s degree from Kent State University in 2011. Leanne’s background includes program development, public speaking, marketing and fundraising, leadership, trauma-informed care, and providing direct services as a victim advocate. Her extensive experience and commitment to empowering survivors make her an integral part of the CAC team.

Jessica Hoskin, MSN, RN, CPNP-PC, Nurse Interviewer

Jessica Hoskin joined the CAC in 2019 and has been a Registered Nurse since 2012. She completed her graduate nursing education in Pediatric Primary Care in 2017. Jessica is trained in NCAC’s Forensic Interviewing of Children and Pediatric Sexual Assault Nurse Exams. At the CAC, she provides forensic interviews, medical exams, testing, and treatment for children and teens who have experienced abuse. Jessica is passionate about promoting health and safety while delivering compassionate medical care to youth in Portage County.

Jessica Gealy, Advocacy Program Coordinator

Jessica Gealy joined the CAC in 2021, bringing over 11 years of social service experience and three years of focused victim advocacy. Her background includes direct service advocacy for adult sexual assault survivors, crisis intervention, and case management. Jessica is skilled in trauma-informed care and has a deep understanding of how trauma affects the body. She also provides education to law enforcement on the impacts of sexual assault and offers court advocacy to support survivors. Jessica is dedicated to helping clients navigate the pain and confusion of trauma with empathy and expertise.

“Our lives begin to end the day we become silent about things that matter.” — Martin Luther King

Madison Emanuel, Advocate

Madison Emanuel joined the CAC in 2023, beginning her journey as an intern and seamlessly transitioning into her current role as an Advocate. She is currently pursuing a degree in Social Work at the University of Kentucky. Madison brings valuable experience in Trauma-Informed Care, social media marketing, community collaboration, and advocacy. Her passion for supporting others and commitment to making a positive impact are evident in all she does.

Kendall Crawford, Advocate

Kendall Crawford joined the CAC in 2023, bringing over three years of direct service victim advocacy experience. She is a registered advocate through the Ohio Advocate Network and holds national credentialing as a Credentialed Advocate. Kendall holds an educational background in criminology, sociology, and anthropology, and is currently working toward her Master of Social Work at Ohio University. Her experience includes supporting survivors of domestic violence through case management, safety planning, and crisis intervention. Kendall’s dedication and multifaceted expertise make her a vital part of the CAC team.

Izzy Rowlands, MSW, LISW

Izzy Rowlands joined the CAC in 2024 as a Licensed Independent Social Worker. She holds a Master’s degree in Social Work and brings a strong background in supporting youth and survivors. Izzy has experience providing school-based therapy to children and adolescents, and previously served as an advocate at the Rape Crisis Center in Akron. Her clinical expertise and compassionate approach make her a valuable asset to the team.

“Only you can decide what breaks you.” – Sarah J. Maas

• Victor Vigluicci, President
  Portage County Prosecutor
• Randy Griffith, Vice President
  Maplewood Career Center
• Claudia Amrhein, Treasurer
  Portage Area Regional Transportation Authority
• Scott Flynn, Secretary
  Flynn Keith & Flynn
• Bill Benoit
  University Hospitals Portage — Medical Center
• Sabrina Christian-Bennett
  Portage County Commissioner

• Mike Finley
  Hall-Green Insurance Agency
• Keith Fletcher
  Family & Community Services
• Shawn Gordon
  UH Portage Medical Center Foundation
• Kathy Hartung
  Community Member
• Kellijo Jeffries
  Portage County Job & Family Services
• Amanda Lewis
  Paoloni & Lewis Attorneys
• Kathy Regal
  Children’s Advantage

• Melissa Roubic
  Portage County Municipal Court Judge
• Heidi Singer
  Kent City Schools
• Geri Strange
  Community Member
• Ben Ribelin
  Ravenna City Schools
• Bruce Zuchowski
  Portage County Sheriff
• Brian Byard
  Aurora Police Chief & President of the Chiefs Association
• Pat Dennison
  Community Member
• LaJoyce Harris
  Family & Community Services