Coroner Kriste Ross Receives National President's Award

Cass County Coroner Kriste Ross has been recognized nationally as the recipient of the 2025 President's Award from the American Board of Medicolegal Death Investigators (ABMDI).

The President's Award is a prestigious honor presented annually by the ABMDI president to an individual who has made significant contributions to the organization and the field of medicolegal death investigation.

Ross began her involvement with ABMDI in 2017 and has since demonstrated an exceptional level of dedication, leadership and professionalism. Over the years, she has served on the organization's board in multiple capacities, including treasurer, secretary and chair of outreach and retention. Her consistent integrity and strong work ethic have left a lasting mark on the organization and her peers.

During the past year as secretary, Ross has taken on the crucial responsibility of recording and maintaining documentation for nearly every organizational meeting. Her meticulous recordkeeping has helped ABMDI navigate a period of transition and growth, ensuring that members remain grounded in the organization's mission and history while charting a clear path forward.

In addition to her professional excellence, Ross is celebrated for the spirit of camaraderie and compassion she brings to every meeting-whether virtual or in person. Colleagues describe her as a source of positivity, humor and support who strengthens the ABMDI community through her kindness and lightheartedness.

"Kriste brings a spirit of camaraderie, caring and lightheartedness that brings us all together and makes us laugh exactly when we need it," said ABMDI President Jackie Ulven in the award announcement. "Thank you, Kriste, for your friendship, support and continued commitment to ABMDI and for the care that you show to us all."

Ross' recognition reflects not only her national impact through ABMDI but also her ongoing dedication to serving the residents of Cass County with professionalism and compassion in her role as coroner.