OLYMPIC SWIMMER/CHILD ADVOCATEMargaret Hoelzer is proof that if you put your mind to it, anything is possible. Overcoming sexual abuse as a child, Hoelzer rose to the top in her sport of swimming & continues to excel as an internationally recognized motivational speaker & advocate. In 2008 after competing in her 2nd Olympic Games becoming a 3x Olympic medalist, & breaking a World Record, Margaret revealed to the world that she had been sexually abused as a child. Leveraging her platform as an Olympic athlete to help spread awareness, Margaret was one of the 1st professional athletes to speak out about her experience with sexual abuse. She is currently a spokesperson for the National Children's Advocacy Center & is a featured survivor in the national award winning Darkness to Light training video, "Stewards of Children." Margaret has received numerous awards for her advocacy work. She enjoys sharing her experiences with Olympic hopefuls & businesses all around the country by teaching youth swim clinics & speaking to local communities. She has a degree in psychology with a minor in criminology, & pursued a graduate degree in sociology from Auburn University.Athletic BioIn 2002, Margaret was the top ranked American in the 200m back after winning gold at the Pan Pacific Championships. She then earned silver in the 200m backstroke at the 2003, & 2005 World Championships. In 2004, Hoelzer made her 1st Olympic team, competing in the 200 back. She placed 5th at the 2004 Olympic Games. In 2006 she placed 2nd in the 200 Back at the Pan Pacific Championships. In 2007, Hoelzer broke through for her 1st gold at the World Champs where she broke her 1st American Record. In 2008, Margaret made her 2nd Olympic team & swam for the US in 3 events, taking the bronze in the 100m back, & 2 silvers in the 200m back. Hoelzer retired from competitive swimming in 2010 having been on the US National team for 9 years. Margaret is also a 22x All-American & a 6x National Champion for Auburn.