The Gabby Petito Foundation visited Arkansas Tech University-Ozark Campus on Monday, March 30, to bring its Unseen Advocates program to students across several health programs.
Gabby Petito went missing at 22 years old and was found to have been murdered as a result of domestic violence in 2021. Jim and Nichole Schmidt, stepfather and mother of Petito, shared Gabby’s story throughout the program and how early intervention is important and can save lives.
“The Unseen Advocates program, led by Jim and Nichole Schmidt from the Gabby Petito Foundation, focused on helping future healthcare providers recognize the warning signs of domestic violence and understand how to respond appropriately and connect patients with critical resources,” said Tangela Felkins, ATU-Ozark practical nursing program chair. “As program chair of the practical nursing program, I am incredibly proud that the ATU–Ozark PN program was able to bring this training to our campus. Education is key to giving providers the tools needed to be proactive. Since health care professionals are uniquely positioned to intervene early, this type of training is essential in improving patient outcomes and potentially saving lives.”
