Saint Rose to Host Jane Doe No More Founder; 2019 Cold Case Conference

True crime series and documentaries have exploded in popularity over the past few years. Although entertainment for some, these stories involve real people, many who are still seeking answers and awaiting justice. Aligning with Saint Rose’s mission, the College will host two events this spring that focus on true crime and survivor advocacy.

Starting Wednesday, March 20 at noon, special guest lecturer and author Donna Palomba will discuss her experience as a sexual assault survivor and survivor advocate in Saint Joseph Hall Auditorium. The 2019 Cold Case Conference will follow on April 15 and 16 and features dozens of professional true crime investigators, authors, podcast hosts, and more.

Palomba will discuss her case and how it influenced her to create Jane Doe No More, a national nonprofit dedicated to empowering survivors of sexual crimes.

In 1993, Palomba survived a brutal home invasion and sexual assault. She transformed her life, moving from victim to warrior to survivor, and changed police policy and Connecticut state law along the way. To learn more about Jane Doe No More, visit janedoenomore.org. The event is free and open to the public.

The 2019 Cold Case Conference is sponsored by the American Investigative Society of Cold Cases (AISOCC) and will take place at various locations on campus. The conference features true crime notables such as world-renown forensic scientist Dr. Henry Lee, who will discuss new concepts in cold case investigations. Aphrodite Jones, a bestselling author and star of the TV series “True Crime with Aphrodite Jones,” will discuss the infamous trial of Michael Peterson and true-crime docuseries “The Staircase.”

Saint Rose Cold Case Analysis Center advisor and adjunct faculty member Christopher Kunkle is the vice president of AISOCC and will present opening remarks alongside President Kenneth Mains. Cold Case Analysis Center interns are members of a student chapter of AISOCC and will attend the conference as well as Palomba’s talk.