LEADERSHIP IS HOPE FOR THE FUTURE SPITE ADVERSITY

Featuring Anne Markley, Chief Executive Director of TESSA

Anne Markley is a strong, inspiring, and dedicated woman who empowers others to thrive in the middle of adversity. Her broad vision and warm heart have built her into a leader who seeks to support and encourage those who have been victims of domestic violence, stalking, trafficking, and assault. Currently, Anne Markley serves her community as the Chief Executive Director of TESSA, a non-profit organization in Colorado Springs dedicated to offering crisis intervention, advocacy, safe housing, and counseling services to empower survivors and help them rebuild their lives.

Markley holds a Bachelor of Science in Human Development and Family Studies from Colorado State University and an MBA from the University of Colorado, which have contributed to her leadership in nonprofit work. She started working as a volunteer and board member for TESSA until 2020, when she accepted the CEO position.

Through her leadership, Markley has been a support and advocate for victims of domestic violence, where her heart extends to victims and families in a cross-sectional practice. The work of Markley has enhanced and afforded TESSA growth opportunities supporting new programs that carry on the mission of the organization. Her experience in the non-profit sector has allowed her to see the community's struggles from both sides. With her marketing and advocacy experience, she is able to reach out to those who need her and make sure that the community backs them up.

Markley understands the problem that domestic violence and trafficking have been on the rise, and with the problematic reduction of funds, they may struggle to provide the services the community needs. However, her determination and perseverance do not allow her to give up; she is looking for innovative ways to promote their work with continuous support from the local community. TESSA’s work has provided immediate safety at their confidential Safehouse for women, children, and other victims escaping abuse; empowered survivors through programs and support such as Advocacy and Counseling; and created a safer future through Education and Outreach to schools, businesses, and other organizations.

Beyond her work at TESSA, Markley is an active voice in policy discussions on domestic violence and survivors’ rights, advocating for improved legal protections and resources. She participates in various coalitions and advisory boards, where she lends her expertise to shape policies that support survivor advocacy, trauma-informed care, and violence prevention. Markley’s influence extends to the media, educational forums, and public speaking events, where she raises awareness and drives community action on behalf of survivors.

With her arduous work and commitment, Markley is creating a legacy of strong women who seek to get out of their difficult situations no matter what they are and provide the opportunity for a new and bright future. Thanks to her work, victims of domestic violence, sexual assault, and human trafficking can have hope for tomorrow and freedom.

ADVOCACY FOR THE FUTURE GENERATIONS

Featuring Nicole Neily, President of Parents Defending Education

Nicole Neily is a committed and passionate advocate for freedom of speech and academic liberty. Her aspirations led her to founded and led Parents Defending Education, a non-partisan organization focused on promoting and restoring education to be healthy and non-political for kids. Her commitment and desire to encourage parents to stand up for their children’s education guided Neily to become a figure for conversations covering education reform and civil liberties, empowering parents to stand up against ideological curricula and advocating for school transparency.

Neily’s early life was shaped by her commitment to individual rights and freedom of expression. As a graduate of the University of Illinois and the Graduate School of Political Management at George Washington University, her academic background in public policy and communications has set the foundation for her future work. Early career experiences in advocacy organizations like the Cato Institute and the Independent Women’s Forum further strengthened her resolve to fight for freedom in education and government accountability.

Neily’s advocacy focuses on safeguarding the First Amendment rights of students, parents, and educators in K-12 education. Her work has exposed numerous instances of critical race theory and other politically driven curricula, helping spark a nationwide debate on the role of ideology in education. Through Parents Defending Education, she has partnered with legal organizations and other advocacy groups to help communities challenge school policies that infringe on free expression and parental rights. Her efforts have resonated with countless parents nationwide, who have found a voice and advocate through her leadership.

In addition to her work at Parents Defending Education, Neily has held positions in leading advocacy organizations, including serving as President of Speech First, where she defended students’ rights to free speech on college campuses. Neily’s voice has become influential in media, policy forums, and legislative efforts. She has appeared in numerous interviews and written extensively on education and civil liberties issues. Her work has earned her recognition within the conservative movement and from parents and educators who share her concerns about modern education.

Nicole Neily is driven by the belief that education should be free from political indoctrination and that parents have the fundamental right to influence their children's education. She advocates for a future where academic freedom is restored, schools are accountable to parents and taxpayers, and students are empowered to think critically and independently. She aims to continue building a national movement that challenges overreach in schools and ensures that future generations receive a balanced, unbiased education.

Nicole Neily’s work has struck a national conversation on parental rights in education, making her a leading voice in the movement to restore school transparency and accountability. Through her leadership, thousands of parents and educators have been empowered to push back against educational ideological agendas, leaving a lasting impact on the broader fight for free speech and academic freedom. Her legacy inspires others to stand up for their rights and protect the future of education in America.