Raise Your Voice Symposium Keynote with Liz Hanlon Sands ’04

At 17 years old, Liz Hanlon Sands ’04's life changed forever when she became the victim of a violent sexual assault. What followed was years of navigating trauma while her case became public and, during her time at Saint Mary's College, returning to court to testify at the trial of one of her attackers. In this powerful and hope-filled session, Sands shares how she found the courage to move beyond surviving and began using her voice to help others heal. Her journey ultimately led to the founding of The Courage Closet, a nonprofit dedicated to supporting survivors of sexual abuse through financial assistance, community partnerships, and advocacy. Through personal storytelling and practical insights, attendees will leave inspired to embrace resilience, support others with compassion, and discover how courage can transform pain into purpose and create lasting change.

 

Liz Hanlon Sands is a proud alumna of Saint Mary's College. As a student, she was a member of the varsity golf team, served as team captain of the golf team during her junior and senior years, and was inducted into the Saint Mary's College Athletic Hall of Fame in 2019. Sands has transformed her personal journey into a mission of advocacy, believing healing begins when survivors feel seen, heard, and supported. She is a Certified Public Accountant, corporate leader, proud mother of four, and lives with her family in Northern Virginia. Through her speaking, she inspires others to find their voice, embrace resilience, and create meaningful change.