Meghann Simpson is a passionate advocate, trainer, and consultant who uses her lived expertise, academic background, and professional experience to reform systems and uplift communities. As someone who has navigated trauma, mental illness, addiction, and recovery firsthand, Meghann brings a rare depth of empathy and understanding to her work. Her personal healing journey —from surviving neglect, sexual violence, and interpersonal violence to building a career rooted in resilience— shapes her commitment to helping others thrive.

Meghann earned her B.A. in Interdisciplinary Social Science with a Minor in African American Studies from the University at Buffalo. She has worked with a wide range of populations, including youth with severe emotional and behavioral challenges, adults with serious mental illness, LGBTQIA+ communities, and formerly incarcerated individuals. Her professional experience includes leadership roles in peer support services, survivor-centered services, civic engagement initiatives, and community training and education.

As the Co-Founder of Now She Speaks, a peer-led nonprofit, Meghann leads efforts to support survivors of human trafficking and domestic violence through training, advocacy, and empowerment. She also serves on multiple advisory boards and councils, collaborating with local, state, and national agencies —as well as grassroots organizations across the state and country— to promote youth voice and survivor leadership.  Her work is grounded in the belief that healing is possible and that everyone deserves the chance to reclaim their story, speak their truth, and live a happy, successful, fulfilling, and meaningful life.