Devon Anderson

Secretary

 

My name is Devon Anderson, and I am the Secretary for the Board of Directors here at Light After Loss. I hold a Master’s Degree in Higher Education and a Bachelors in English, and my goal is to one day create and sustain programs for LGBTQ+ and other marginalized groups of students on college and university campuses to help them feel safe, seen, and supported while in the college environment, as far too many of them choose to end their lives due to the toxicity sometimes found on campus combined with a lack of support. Education is at the core of all I do, both through my work at Stark State College and my work at Akron Children’s Hospital in education and outreach. I am also a writer, working on my second novel, which is a sequel to my debut.

My journey to Light After Loss came through the community. Suicidal ideation is nothing new to me, and I had planned many ways to end my own life in the past. Meeting survivors in the community and hearing their stories here at Light After Loss really helps drive home the message to me (and many like me) that life is simply better when you are in it! I am a tireless advocate for mental health and suicide awareness – especially for the LGBTQ+ population, women, and girls – and I am working on becoming a QPR and Youth/Adult Mental Health First Aid trainer, to enhance ways I can serve my community.

No matter what I am doing, I am a mother first and foremost, and I am raising three girls to believe they breathe fire. If I am not out in the community or working, you can find me with those little ladies, hiking, reading, or just enjoying a good snuggle. I am proud to support and serve Light After Loss and believe 100% in our mission and work done through our incredible programs, educational opportunities, and support for survivors and all struggling with life after the loss of loved ones.