“At TA, we know that taking care of our people is good business. Aryn and her “That’s Not OK’ workshop was a powerful and enlightening experience for our employees. As a company, we understand that our people truly are our differentiator. As we invest and advocate for our people both in and out of the workplace, we are able to attract and retain incredible talent. 

The authenticity and compassion Aryn brought to the conversation aligns perfectly with our culture and delivers on our promise of being dedicated to caring holistically for our people. For businesses looking to create a powerful connective opportunity for their employees, we highly recommend working with Aryn.” Steve Bartholomew, Chief Executive Officer, Thomas Associates.

“Given the relevance of the topic, I believe that this should be made available to all young people. I am a firm believer in the power of education, awareness and empowerment. With this in mind, I would like to strongly endorse your program as a life-saving tool for college-aged young women and men. I will be writing to my former program to make them aware of your work.” Alana Philip, Honors Program Coordinator, John Jay College

“I wasn't sure how the girls would respond to the subject and presenters.  I thought there would be more behavior management needed, however, Aryn was so engaging that both the staff and girls were completely focused on the presentation. The content was presented in such a relatable way that it was hard not to make actual connections to our personal lives.  I did not expect to feel the impact so immediately.” Corinne Santiago, Program Director, Girls Inc. Brooklyn

Being able to break down specific characteristics that signify signs of an abusive person or an unhealthy relationship can only impact student success rate positively. What they learned with Aryn can be used to navigate all types of relationships, which in turn will keep them out of stressful situations that could deter them from being active students.  There is also a sense of empowerment that is instilled once they attend this workshop because they now have the prevention tools.  I strongly recommend this education for all young people.” Michelle Bernabe, School Nurse, Cathedral High School

“Teaching girls to be in healthy relationships not only benefits them personally, but it helps them be successful students, employees and citizens. Each time a student comes into my office and brags about her jealous boyfriend, brags about how her boyfriend loves her so much he doesn't let her go to the police academy after school, brags about how her girlfriend loves her so much that she controls how she dresses – I can carry on the message of “That’s Not OK!” and help them identify the difference between love and abuse. 

Aryn’s mission of empowerment and education is helping break the cycle of abuse and letting girls know, many for the first time, what love looks like.” Alice D’Orazi, Director of Medical Gateways

“When speaking with my students yesterday, they all unanimously agreed that this type of presentation should be given to all grade levels, even 9th graders, because abuse happens to all groups.  Students handed in written evaluations and all stated how useful the presentation was and that they took away much needed information. They all mentioned the brochure "Share The 8 before It's Too Late" and indicated they would share this information with friends and family.

We had presented a similar program entitled "Love is not Abuse" however, the students felt Aryn’s presentation was more relatable coming from a young woman who was willing to share her difficulty with them. I believe her willingness to speak so openly and sensitively truly brought home the information.” Saint Ann’s School

We think that many of the students have experienced or witnessed violence.  The presentation kept them highly engaged and interested because it was relevant to their lives.  Aryn was able to tap in to the students’ personal struggles in a thoughtful manner which helped them participate. Also, I felt that the presentation brought up good points about surrounding ourselves with positive people in general. We feel at St. Barnabas that the students should be armed with a lot of knowledge for the real world.  Having them aware of different issues such as intimate partner abuse, and knowing what help there is out there, will encourage them to seek the help and be able to move forward.  I highly recommend this education!” Liz Murray, Guidance Counselor, St. Barnabas High School

“The students’ feedback that stand out in my mind…

"I had no idea abuse is so common", (this from several students); "I thought the presentation was going to be boring but it was the opposite - I could have listened longer", (several students); "I now realize that the relationship I was in for two years was an abusive one - because of yesterday, I feel a sense of closure", (student who came to talk about her own situation, this morning).

I believe that this workshop gave the students the vocabulary to articulate what they see and experience, to be able to recognize abuse, as well as the confidence to speak more openly about their experiences. Many of them reported being surprised at how many of their classmates were familiar in one way or another with the reality of abusive relationships. I strongly recommend Aryn’s workshop to other schools and organizations.” Mary D’Emic, Lead Guidance Counselor, St. Saviour High School

I was surprised at just how comfortable the girls felt sharing very personal testimonies with one another during her workshop but Ms. Quinn created a sense of safety. I struggled in the beginning to establish trust with this group. They have known each other for a long time but for many of them, they were just getting to know me. After this workshop I finally feel that we have obtained that trust with each other.

I believe that the girls have taken something very valuable from the presentation. The eight signs were extremely powerful. I believe that seeds of confidence were planted today.” Dosha Truick, Lead Advisor, The Young Women’s Leadership School of Queens

“I heard about Aryn and “That’s Not OK” from the other deans who had workshops last year. They seemed to think the presentation was really good so I decided that I wanted to do one for my year. What differed from my initial expectations was how upbeat and dynamic the presentation was.

The overall participation of so many students really stands out in my mind! I believe that the information imparted at the workshop will enable many students to recognize the signs of an abusive relationship sooner and do something about it.” Doriann Murphy: Dean of Seniors, The Mary Louis Academy

“In the past when we have had speakers, it was primarily about them telling their stories.  What was different about this workshop was that while Aryn’s story was important, audience participation and education were the primary focus.  The 8 signs were clearly defined and presented in a way that was relevant and memorable. I would love to bring Aryn back to LIU Post.  Our female students were so engaged during the program and it was great to see them not only present, but actively listening and participating.”” Sarah Boles, Event Coordinator, Long Island University  

“I was listening to the workshop and getting more and more upset when I realized the abuse that was happening to my own sister. But the more I thought about it, I was shocked to realize that I had totally repressed what had happened to me, as well. I had such a burst of emotions later that day, all I could do was sit down and cry. But it was so good to let it out. It opened my eyes to what had really happened to me. And I never shared it with anyone until that day, when I decided to tell my friend all about it. She was shocked because I had never said anything but was also very supportive.

I used to blame myself and feel really bad for ending the abusive relationship but now I'm really comfortable. I realize that I had to do what I did. For the first time I actually have closure. I'm proud that I survived and I look at all the things I've accomplished even with the abuse that I went through. 

The workshop was life changing. Thank you!!!” Sabrina Gargano, Event Coordinator, St. Joseph’s College