Remembering D’An Anders
Victim Rights Advocate

For over 3 decades D’An Anders has been a leader in the fight to provide greater protections for victims’ of Family Violence and Sexual Assault.  She strived to ensure victims’ needs and rights were met along with individual and community safety.  This individual of greatness brought with her the tools that are essential to be an effective victim advocate: Compassion, Empathy, Knowledge, Perseverance,  Understanding and  a Commitment to justice for crime victims.

She has trained professionals at the Attorney General’s conference, Texas Association Against Sexual Assault Conference and the Texas Sheriff’s Association Annual Conference.  She began her career as the Rural Outreach Director for the East Texas Crisis Center in Tyler, Texas and as a Legal Advocacy Specialist with the Texas Council on Family Violence in Austin, Texas and went on to the Women’s Advocacy Project, Texas Lawyers Care Services and upon her passing with the Texas Association Against Sexual Assault. 

D’An has fought with great heart and courage on behalf of crime victims.  She helped pave the way to turn the tide on how Family Violence and Sexual Assault Victims were viewed and treated. What an amazing person and what an accomplished life she has had, yet D’An remained humble and unassuming.  As with most victim advocates, D’An witnessed the horrific actions perpetuated against victims of crime, however, she never lost her sense of humor nor her kindness.

 When asked, what do you consider your greatest accomplishment as an Advocate for Crime Victims…without hesitation D’An will respond “being able to share the knowledge she has gained over the years and collaborate by networking across the state with colleague’s to achieve a common goal for crime victims”…what noble accomplishments she contributed to the State of Texas.

D’An Anders will be missed greatly.  She was an advocate, she was also a friend to many and a much loved mother.  Rest in Peace my friend, you did your very best for so many people and you earned your wing many times over.