Elizabeth Smart Opens Inaugural 'COD Presents' Speaker Series Oct. 19 at College of DuPage

Glen Ellyn, Illinois--(Newsfile Corp. - September 13, 2023) - Nationally recognized speaker Elizabeth Smart brings her personal story of perseverance as a child-abduction survivor facing unimaginable adversity to College of DuPage as part of the inaugural "COD Presents" series Thursday, Oct. 19, at the McAninch Arts Center at College of DuPage, 425 Fawell Blvd., in Glen Ellyn.

Elizabeth Smart

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The presentation will begin at 7 p.m., followed by a Q&A session moderated by COD Dean of Students Nathania Montes, Ph.D., a licensed clinical professional counselor. Smart also will be on hand to sign copies of her latest book, "Where There's Hope." FT Cares Foundation is the presenting sponsor.

Smart's abduction on June 5, 2002, shocked the nation, and her subsequent nine months in captivity under constant threat and fear held the attention of millions. Miraculously, on March 12, 2003, she was safely reunited with her family. Her unwavering determination led her to testify against her captor, resulting in his conviction.

Today, Smart is a passionate advocate for change in areas related to child abduction, recovery programs and national legislation. As the founder of the Elizabeth Smart Foundation, she has been instrumental in promoting crucial initiatives such as The National AMBER Alert and The Adam Walsh Child Protection & Safety Act, tirelessly working to prevent abductions and protect children.

She is author of the New York Times best-selling book "My Story," in which she courageously shares her experiences. In collaboration with other abduction survivors, she contributed to the creation of the survivors' guide "You're Not Alone: The Journey From Abduction to Empowerment," which provides solace and encouragement to young individuals who have faced similar trials.

In her latest book, "Where There's Hope," Smart offers a profound and inspiring perspective on overcoming trauma, finding resilience and reclaiming life. This book embodies her mission to guide readers toward embracing the future while making peace with the past.

College of DuPage students are admitted free with a student ID. Attendees will receive a copy of "Where There's Hope" while supplies last. Students will obtain a list of mental health resources.

For more information or to purchase tickets, visit atthemac.org.

Contact: Jennifer Duda
dudajen@cod.edu

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