Rachael Denhollander speaks at CU-Lock Haven, shares her story with university community

On Tuesday, March 29, Lock Haven University welcomed attorney, author, advocate and educator Rachael Denhollander to campus.

Denhollander is recognized as a leading voice on the topic of sexual abuse.

She became known internationally in 2016 as the first woman to pursue criminal charges and speak publicly against team USA gymnastics' doctor Larry Nassar, one of the most prolific sexual abusers in recorded history.

Speaking to a large crowd that included nearly all LHU student-athletes and coaches in the Price Performance Center Auditorium, Denhollander spoke about doing the right thing - the choice to speak up and to raise your voice to help others.

Her message emphasized asking each one in attendance who they are, to analyze their worth and define their purpose.

"The It's On Us PA grant allowed us to bring Racheal Denhollander to campus. The grant is the first statewide campaign to address the crisis of sexual assault in schools and on college campuses," said Sherry Moore, LHU associate director of human resources and deputy Title IX coordinator. "It's On Us brings together university presidents, administrators, teachers, students and community members to reframe the conversation around sexual violence and pledge to be part of the solution. Being able to bring a speaker who is recognized nationally as a leading voice on the topic of sexual abuse is invaluable to our campus culture."

"Rachael has an unmatched combination of experience, expertise and personal courage that inspired our campus community to stand up for what's right," Moore added.