This week’s Spotlight focuses on Magdalena Leininger, a third-year student double majoring in Commerce and Studies in Women and Gender. “I have made it a life-long commitment to work to end sexual and domestic violence in any capacity that I can,” she said. At UVa Magdalena is the president of Sexual Assault Facts and Education (SAFE), which encourages students to discuss these serious issues without apprehension. She is also the vice president of the White Ribbon Campaign, an organization that attempts to educate the University about violence within dating and relationships. Magdalena still finds time to intern for the Women’s Center and help coordinate Domestic Violence Month.
Magdalena believes in combating the real threat of sexual violence against women by informing as many students as possible. It is a staggering fact that 1 in 4 women have lived through rape or attempted rape. She hopes that dialogue throughout the community will inspire people to stop such violence. “My goal is to make each survivor know that they can and will heal from violence and that they have someone to support them every step of the way,” she said. Magdalena has made tremendous progress for women at UVa and plans to continue her work after she graduates next year.
To learn more or get involved contact Magdalena at mrl3ty@virginia.edu
