Presentation

From Hindsight to Foresight

(Alissa Parker & Michele Gay)

The mothers of Josephine Gay and Emilie Parker, killed in the Sandy Hook School tragedy, and co-founders of Safe and Sound Schools, share their stories and lessons that sparked this national movement.

Biography

Alissa is the mother of Emilie Parker, one of the 20 children who died tragically in the Sandy Hook School Shootings on December 14, 2012. In the wake of the tragedy, Alissa was moved to engage parents in securing the safety of their children’s school by becoming an active member of the Newtown Public Schools’ Safety Committee. Now, Alissa is a nationally-recognized advocate for school safety, speaking to school communities, educational leadership events, and top news sources across the United States.

Alissa graduated from Weber State University in her hometown of Ogden, Utah. She is a co-founder of Safe and Sound Schools, and also co-founded The Emilie Parker Art Connection, which gives to art programs for kids across the country. She is the author of the book, An Unseen Angel, a memoir of faith, hope and healing. Alissa brings a powerful perspective and passion to Safe and Sound Schools. She is devoted to creating a legacy of safety for our nation’s children in honor of her beloved Emilie.