Hundreds of community members turned out for a day of discussions and resources centered on substance use disorder at Holy Family University’s 2nd Annual Collegiate Recovery event on May 4 on the University’s Philadelphia campus.

“We know that substance use disorder and mental health challenges affect families and communities nationwide,” said University President Anne Prisco in opening the event. “Each statistic reflects a personal story of struggle and resilience. Families face emotional turmoil, often feeling helpless and heartbroken. And yet, despite these challenges, there is hope. This event marks on those bright lights of promise.”

“It is vital for me to go up to Harrisburg and bring back the necessary resources, tools, and legislation so that recovery from drug and alcohol addiction stays on the forefront,” said State Senator Jimmy Dillon who showed up in support of the event. “We are taking an intergovernmental approach in making sure that we are giving everyone the treatment and rehabilitative services that they need and deserve.”

Holy Family University and Beck Institute Faculty Member Patrick McElwaine, Psy.D., LPC, delivered the keynote address, “Dear Recovery, You Saved My Life.”

Attendees also had an opportunity to participate in a panel discussion, moderated by Nicholas Emeigh, Associate Director of the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) Bucks County, that featured the insights of a panel of five addiction specialists including Christina Loftus, Dr. Pat Mullen, Joe Owens, Katie Kennedy, and Mark Ryan.

A Recovery Resource Fair, staged by 45 area centers dedicated to addiction and mental health counseling, offered valuable information and resources on site.

The Collegiate Recovery Program at Holy Family University is made possible by a grant from the Independence Blue Cross Foundation.

Learn more at Holy Family University, a private institution in the Catholic tradition with campus locations in Philadelphia and Newtown. Holy Family embraces diversity and inclusion, ensuring a welcoming and accessible learning community for all. Holy Family University is a sponsored ministry of the Sisters of the Holy Family of Nazareth.