Tia Joy Peterson
Co-Founder & Director of Research, Learning & Strategy
Tia Joy Peterson is a survivor, public health professional, and systems leader whose work connects research, lived experience, and community action. Her background spans sexual exploitation prevention, domestic and sexual violence response, and maternal and child health. A 2026 Bush Fellow and PhD student in Nursing Science at the University of Minnesota, she examines how systems can better support women navigating violence, incarceration, and reentry, with particular attention to Black women’s experiences.
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At Beyond Survival Institute, Tia leads research, learning, and strategy to turn community knowledge into meaningful change. She is committed to ensuring that women affected by trauma have the resources, opportunities, and decision-making power to shape their futures and the systems that affect their lives.
Meet the Co-Founders
Beyond Survival Institute is co-founded and led by Tia Joy Peterson and Rea Smith.
Rea Smith
Co-Founder & Executive Director
Rea Smith is a leader and advocate whose lived experience with incarceration informs her commitment to expanding opportunity for women and families. She brings firsthand understanding of the barriers people face during reentry and the importance of support that recognizes their strengths, dignity, and potential.
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At Beyond Survival Institute, Rea guides the organization’s vision and work to create pathways to healing, leadership, and opportunity. She champions the voices of people directly affected by incarceration and trauma, advancing a future in which their experiences inform solutions and their leadership helps shape lasting change.