Sandy’s work is driven by a lifelong passion to help, serve, and give back. She began her career as a middle school counselor—a role she truly loved—and through that experience felt called to address the devastating realities of human trafficking and to bring hope and support to those impacted.

Drawing from extensive experience, Sandy developed trauma-informed trainings that have been requested by first responders and emergency room staff working directly with victims of trafficking. These trainings focus on understanding victim trauma, how it shapes behavior, and practical ways professionals can respond with compassion and effectiveness.

Recognizing how traffickers target and manipulate youth, Sandy turned her focus to prevention in schools. From a counselor’s perspective, she created a comprehensive prevention education program that can be easily implemented without adding strain to educators, while empowering young people to be part of the solution and carry the voice of their peers.

Through Project SHIELD, Sandy and her team educate, protect, and empower schools and communities to recognize risks, prevent exploitation, and safeguard our youth.