About Us
Our Mission
UTD Crissa’s Community Outreach (CCO) serves community members on campus that have suffered from domestic violence & educate the student body about its different forms, and available services. We believe that everyone deserves to live a life free from violence and we strive to provide a safe and supportive environment for those who have experienced it. Our team of dedicated professionals and volunteers work tirelessly to empower survivors and educate the community on how we can all work together to end domestic violence. We welcome you to join us in our mission to create a safer campus and a better world for everyone.
In Memory Of
Michelle Crissa Bearden
1971-1996
Michelle Crissa Bearden, also known as Crissa, grew up in Plano and was a 1989 graduate of East Plano Senior High School. After her abusive four-year relationship ended in 1996, Crissa moved out of her abuser's home. Crissa later agreed to meet with him for one last farewell at an Addison restaurant. When Crissa refused to leave the restaurant with him, he pulled out a handgun and killed her, the restaurant manager, and himself. After her tragic death, Crissa's former employer, Innova Solutions, made a generous donation to Hope's Door in Crissa's memory. As a direct result of this donation, Crissa's Closet soon became a reality. Crissa's Closet is a resale boutique that sells gently used women's items and donates the proceeds to Hope's Door, a shelter and counseling center. Hope's Door save lives by supplying a safe haven to survivorsof domestic abuse and their children, as well as counseling services to help these survivors become self-sufficient and independent women.
Taking inspiration from these two organizations and efforts in the Dallas area, Crissa's Community Outreach was created at the University of Texas at Dallas. Similar to Hope's Door and Crissa's Closet, CCO's mission is to support domestic violence survivors in their journies on campus and around the Dallas area.
"Overcoming abuse doesn't just happen, it takes positive steps every day. Let today be the day you start to move forward."
- Assunta Harris"