The tragic death of 22-year-old Riley Strain during a college spring break, with a blood alcohol level of 0.228% and THC levels beyond testing limits, highlights the dangers of excessive partying. This incident underscores the urgent need for increased awareness and preventive measures against substance misuse among students.

Rich Lucey, a senior prevention programme manager at the DEA, and Erin Ficker, a regional director at SAMHSA’s Strategic Prevention Technical Assistance Centre, are pivotal in combating these issues. Lucey brings over 30 years of experience in planning educational programmes and advising on prevention strategies. Ficker excels in training and technical assistance, using the Strategic Prevention Framework to empower communities.

Their work with organisations like the DEA and SAMHSA is essential in promoting responsible behaviour and safe practices among college students. By fostering a culture of awareness and prevention, they aim to prevent future tragedies and ensure that students can enjoy their college years responsibly.

Experts like Lucey and Ficker are helping to make college life safer for students. Their work encourages healthier choices that can have a lasting, positive effect on young people’s lives.

Source: Campus Drug Prevention