03/02/2026
Women Who Changed History, Virginia Lynch.
Virginia Lynch is the founder of forensic nursing, a specialized field that combines health care with the legal system.
As a registered nurse, Lynch identified a critical gap in the medical treatment of victims of violence, particularly in cases involving sexual assault and abuse. She worked to improve how evidence was collected and preserved while ensuring patients were treated with dignity and compassion.
In 1992, Lynch founded the International Association of Forensic Nurses (IAFN), helping establish professional standards, education, and certification for forensic nurses worldwide. Her work transformed the way health care and justice systems collaborate, and her contributions continue to influence victim-centered care and forensic science today.