pleasure to meet you.

My name is Bev and in 2014, I created the domestic violence survivor-led hashtag, #WhyIStayed. I was honored by Investigation Discovery and Glamour Magazine as their 2015 Inspire A Difference "Everyday Hero."

I was featured in a Toyota commercial discussing The Bolt Bag Project, my initiative to provide emergency escape bags to victims of intimate partner violence at no cost. Freedom from abuse should be free. In July 2017, I linked up with the Allstate Foundation's "Purple Purse" to produce web videos explaining financial abuse.

Originally from Cleveland, OH, I’m a graduate of Hampton University (B.A. in Journalism), and Loyola University Chicago (M.A. in Social Justice), where my master’s thesis examined institutional responses to single women experiencing intimate partner violence. I'm passionate about art, advancing equity, and accessible beauty - because to thrive also means to love how you look and feel.

I love sleep, hot tea, rom-coms, film music, bowling, and long walks in the park. My debut memoir, SURVIVING: Why We Stay & How We Leave Abusive Relationships, is available now.

All the best to you!