FIGHTING FOR THE FUTURE

Forensic Services Director Kris Cano talks supporting the Valley’s LGBTQ youth with one n ten

As an employee of the City of Scottsdale for over 20 years, Kris Cano is making a big impact in the community, in the world of forensics and beyond.

“I have always had a passion for forensics. It’s a field that is never the same and allows one to apply science to criminal investigations,” Cano says. “Being able to provide critical results and make a difference behind the scenes is a big driver for me.”

Early in her career, Cano worked in crime laboratories specializing in in DNA analysis, and attributes her advancement from technician to director to a little bit of luck and a whole lot of persistence. During her nearly 30-year career, Cano – who has a bachelor’s degree in biochemistry from Florida State University and a master’s in chemistry from the University of South Florida – has worked in everything from state to federal to municipal organizations.

Today, as Scottsdale’s forensics services director, she oversees budget development, quality assurance and administrative functions in the forensics laboratory, the property and evidence warehouse, the digital forensic unit, and much more.

In her involvement with a wide range of organizations in the forensics community, including the American Society of Crime Laboratory Directors and the American Academy of Forensic Scientists, Cano works tirelessly to help develop standards for forensic science. In addition to training and mentoring new employees, one of the highlights of her career has been watching technology advance over the years, especially in the area of digital forensics.

“Most people now have a small computer at their fingertips that can provide useful investigative information that was not even thought of 30 years ago,” she says. “Back then, you needed a nickel-sized stain of blood to obtain a DNA profile through a manual process. Today, DNA can be obtained from items that people touch, and the process is automated.”

While forensics often takes the center stage in crime dramas like CSI: Crime Scene Investigation, Cano knows firsthand that real life is rarely like they show it on TV.

“One misconception about the field is that we can make things happen instantaneously. We have to comply with policies and procedures that allow the work to be credible in court proceedings – this takes time and attention to detail which can’t be completed by the end of a TV show.”

In addition to a fulfilling, jam-packed career in forensics, Cano’s passion project is her involvement with one n ten, a local nonprofit that serves lesbian, gay, bisexual, and questioning (LGBTQ) youth through social and service programs. With its social networking events, housing assistance, suicide prevention services and life skills classes, one n ten (www.onenten.org) aims to support a new generation of leaders who prioritize self-expression, self-acceptance, and healthy lifestyle choices.

Cano’s first experience with the nonprofit was as an attendee at an annual fundraiser. “I was so inspired by the stories of the youth and what incredible programs the organization offered,” she says. “I was looking for resources for my own child and this organization provided a safe space to ask questions and obtain much-needed help.”

One standout moment from Cano’s time with one n ten came last October, during the National Coming OUT Day celebration at the Heard Museum. The fundraiser provided the opportunity for youth to share their coming out stories in front of a supportive and receptive audience. Cano and her daughter were among the storytellers, and witnessing her daughter’s strength up on stage is something Cano knows she’ll never forget.

“I was so proud of [my daughter’s] bravery,” says Cano, who emphasizes the importance of mental health awareness for parents of LGBTQ children. “Kids often feel ashamed or uncomfortable being honest with who they are, which can lead to depression and social anxiety. Let them know that this is your journey too. Be supportive, provide them that safe space, and ask your kid what they need so you can provide them with the tools to be confident, brave, comfortable and happy.”

This year, in addition to her role on one n ten’s governance committee, Cano will serve as vice chair of the board of directors, helping raise and distribute funds, update bylaws, recruit new board members, and adopt policies consistent with the nonprofit’s mission to build a brighter future, one where LGBTQ youth are engaged in their communities and accepted for who they are.

And through it all, Cano has one motivating factor in mind – her family. “My children definitely inspire me. In this world, they have to be brave, strong, and resilient. I try to set an example for them by working hard, being kind and giving back, which I hope they will carry on. The best legacy I can leave my kids is for them to remember how much I loved them.”