Amanda-Lee Pitzer, Ed.D., is a self-proclaimed “master of starting over” who holds fast to the belief that restoration is always possible—even when it comes in unexpected forms. Widowed at 36, she found herself navigating grief while raising her two boys alone. In time, God answered the prayers she had carried for years, bringing her the love of her life and his daughter, forming a new family and a powerful picture of healing and hope. Out of her personal journey, Amanda-Lee discovered a renewed sense of calling. She earned her Doctor of Educational Psychology with a focus on trauma studies and has since dedicated her career to supporting children, families, educators, and communities impacted by trauma. Today, she is an author, speaker, professor, and advocate who combines research with storytelling to help others find restoration and purpose in the face of hardship. Amanda-Lee has written multiple books, including The Relieved Widow and When Children Are Hurting, and her upcoming textbook, Classroom Strategies for Trauma-Informed Teaching, equips educators with tools to restore trust, connection, and hope for students. She also leads the Hampton Roads Chapter of Angels of America’s Fallen, a nonprofit supporting children of fallen military and first responders. You can follow her work and encouragement on Instagram at @dr.amandalee.pitzer