Every Connection Matters

32nd Annual Conference

JUNE 21-24, 2022

Penn Stater Hotel & Conference Center, State College

View Conference Pricing

Register for Conference

Keynote Speakers

Carlton-Hall

Carlton Hall

Founder & CEO, Carlton Hall Consulting

The Fierce Urgencies of Now! The Role of Prevention, Commercialization and Inequity

Dr-Deborah-Carrera

Dr. Debora Carrera

Executive Deputy Secretary, Pennsylvania Department of Education

Our Vision of Prevention

Clara-Gibbons

Clara Gibbons

Principal Strategist, FrameWorks
Institute

Changing the Narrative on Prevention

Jaime-Grant

Jaime Grant

Founder & Principal, Transformations Consulting

Love and Solidarity: Staying Sober Across Time, Space, Race, Gender, and Sexuality

Darlene-Nipper

Darlene Nipper

Chief Executive Officer, Rockwood Leadership Institute

Love and Solidarity: Staying Sober Across Time, Space, Race, Gender, and Sexuality

Pricing & Registration

Full (in person) Conference Registration includes both pre-conference virtual deep dives and the sessions detailed below. Virtual Conference Registration includes both pre-conference virtual deep dives and all the sessions highlighted in blue in the schedule below. All virtual sessions will be recorded and available for ALL conference registrants until Friday, July 8th, 4:00 p.m. EST.

Registration will close on Friday, May 27 for the in-person event and Friday, June 10 for the virtual event.  

Full Conference

CPA Members - $475
Non-members - $575
Students - n/a

Includes pre-conference virtual sessions

Virtual Sessions Only

CPA Members - $275
Non-members - $375
Students - $90

Includes pre-conference and select streamed conference sessions

Scholarships & Registration Instructions 

Unfortunately, we are unable to offer scholarships this year. We are grateful to provide a virtual option for those who aren't able or can't travel at this time.

This year we are hosting both in-person and virtual options and they require separate registrations.  Please consider registering early for the conference as we are going to cap the number of in-person attendees.

Please review our COVID-19 and Cancellation policies before registering.  To review and download the full conference registration details and instructions, please go HERE.

Become a CPA Member and save!

Enjoy significant savings by becoming a CPA Member or renewing your old membership.

Pre-Conference Deep Dives

The following pre-conference sessions are virtual and included in both Full and Virtual Conference Registrations.

Presenter: Andy Duran, CEO, LEAD

Dates:

  • Part I:  June 14
  • Part II:  June 16

Time: 10:00 - 11:30 am

Have you ever seen or heard something and wondered what it was that someone was trying to tell you? What is it that makes certain messages "sticky" and other messages forgettable? Have you ever wondered how to take a negative story and insert yourself and your prevention work into it, in order to change that story for the good?

Join in this session for a deep dive into what type of prevention messaging works and what type doesn't. We will discuss how coalitions, prevention organizations, and community non-profits can take advantage of social media marketing opportunities in an effort to make our communities safer and healthier.

As a result of this session, participants will be able to:

  • Optimize your organic and targeted reach on social media platforms
  • Understand best practices in effective prevention messaging
  • Use built-in analytics to realize greatest ROI (return on investment)

Presenter: Aaron Weiner, Licensed Clinical Psychologist, Bridge Forward Group

Date: June 15
Time: 1:00 - 2:30 pm

Depictions of substance use and sex are widespread in current media, including shows often viewed by teenagers such as Stranger Things and The Queen's Gambit on Netflix, and HBO's Euphoria. Given that research indicates that exposure to these messages increases teenage substance use and sexual behavior, what can parents do to protect their children? Join Dr. Weiner for an exploration of the psychological impact of drug use in media, as well as actionable strategies for parents and caregivers to help teenagers navigate this complicated social and cultural terrain.
As a result of this session, participants will be able to:

  • Describe how exposure to on-screen smoking impacts youth nicotine use behavior
  • Describe how media exposure to sexual messaging impacts perceptions of descriptive and injunctive norms
  • List at least three discussion topics to help prepare teens to be exposed to mature themes in popular media.

Full Conference Main Event

Tuesday, June 21 (blue highlighted columns are the sessions available virtually)

Presenter: Craig Bowman, President, Common Ground Consulting, LLC

Date: June 21
Time: 12:00 - 3:30 pm

It is such a dynamic and challenging time to come together in prevention settings and in other organizing contexts to build strong, healthy, and resilient communities. On the upside, more people are talking about substance misuse and recovery than ever before. Dry January and sober bars are popular. The ravages of substance use disorder, however, are well documented and deeply felt—especially through the pandemic. There has perhaps never been a time when awareness has been higher about the need for prevention programs and community engagement involving health, safety, addiction, and recovery.

And yet, we are also in a moment when bringing people together across differences is fraught with difficulties. The last two years of the pandemic have wrought tremendous losses—of life, family, businesses, wages, and community. When we meet—virtually or in person—and work to build and support prevention projects together; or work to secure our health or recovery; or promote equity and inclusion practices in our work—we do so in perhaps an unprecedented moment of both exhaustion and alienation. People who have worked long and hard in our communities may be worn out and demoralized. People who are just coming to the table to get involved may feel daunted by the needs of those most vulnerable and intimidated by a lack of experience with navigating differences in language, embodiment, religious beliefs, geography, and values.

During this pre-conference training, three seasoned community organizers—with more than 60 years of practice in building communities and supporting recovery, having led trainings all over the world in youth development, LGBTQI+ equity, racial justice, dismantling oppression, fighting for health equity, and more—will share their expertise facilitating for transformation.

As a result of this session, participants will be able to:

  • Define best practices for welcoming and affirming workshop participants
  • Facilitate intense story sharing activities to encourage communication amongst diverse groups
  • Identify unique challenges in facilitating equity and justice conversations, and describe how to overcome them

Presenter: Craig Bowman, President, Common Ground Consulting, LLC

Date: June 21
Time: 4:00 - 5:30 pm

For the past couple of years, CPA has been very focused on ways to embrace and integrate diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging (DEIB) into all of its activities. It has worked hard to include more representation on its board of directors and in its conference planning. This year, the board has also approved a new strategic plan, which includes new values, a new vision, and a new mission. This new strategic plan fully embodies CPA’s DEIB commitments.
In this CPA Town Hall, we’ll create a space for CPA’s leadership to share more about its work in these areas and for you to share your personal stories, ideas, and suggestions for how CPA can further affirm its leadership on DEIB issues. This Just TalkTM conversation will be facilitated by the team leading our pre-conference workshop on facilitating for transformation.

Common Ground, LLC™ is a strategic consulting firm working globally to create spaces for people from diverse backgrounds and experiences to come together, build trust, define areas of shared and common interest, and achieve transformational, mission-critical goals. For 29 years, Craig Bowman and his firm have been providing world-class consulting services to community-based, national, and international social profit organizations and NGOs. His work assists leaders to harness an entrepreneurial spirit in advancing social justice and supporting the public good. Common Ground has provided assistance to more than 300 clients in 47 U.S. states and 32 countries with clients that include global NGOs, CSOs, PSOs, foundations, governments, nonprofits, colleges, universities, and other consulting firms. As a leading social sector futurist, Craig Bowman has spent his career developing a philosophy of learning and management that harnesses passion as a bridge between human potential and social responsibility. He provides valuable advocacy, management, and fund development training; offers executive-level one-on-one coaching and board development; prioritizes diversity, equity, and inclusion issues; manages difficult multicultural organizational development and structural issues; teaches beginners and advanced courses in facilitation skills and curriculum development; and specializes in the creation and implementation of youth and community development programming strategies.

Date: June 21
Time: 6:00 - 7:30 pm

Whether attending the In-person Tuesday
pre-conference sessions or traveling into State College for the Wed-Fri full conference, join us at the Arboretum at Penn State for an evening reception and gathering.  It’s been so long since we've been able to meet in person and this is just that chance to casually talk with others and stroll through the beautiful Arboretum. We will have heavy hors d’oeuvres, refreshments, great conversations, and prizes! And, the Penn State Creamery is only a few blocks away. The reception is part of your conference registration so there is not an additional charge. When registering, please check the box to attend this event so we have a good estimate for food and refreshments.

Presenter: Alicia Kline, Prevention Specialist, Council on Chemical Abuse, Berks County

Date: June 21
Time: 1:00 - 2:15 pm

Today we rely on technology more than ever. While we recognize the positives in technology we must also understand the negatives to protect ourselves and our youth. However, rather than attempt to deny youth the use of their technology we need to assure we are raising positive digital citizens.  A positive digital citizen is someone who uses technology responsibly to learn, create, and participate. This program discusses:

  • Defining Digital Citizenship
  • Creating safe spaces on line
  • Warning signs of scams and inappropriate contact
  • On line dating abuse
  • Cyberbullying
  • Skills to maintain an on and offline balance

As a result of this session, participants will be able to:

  • Define Digital Citizenship
  • Identify skills needed to strengthen and create positive digital citizens
  • Develop strategies to help youth build the skills needed to become positive digital citizens

We are very excited to offer the Tuesday Pre-Conference sessions as part of the overall conference registration fee! If you're unable to join us in-person on Tuesday, but are traveling into State College for the Wed-Fri sessions, please consider joining us at the Arboretum for a reception. Just remember to check this box when registering.

Wednesday, June 22 (blue highlighted columns are the sessions available virtually)

Welcome (9:00 - 9:30 am)

Presenter: Jennifer Smith, Secretary Department of Drug and Alcohol Programs

Date: June 22
Time: 9:00 - 9:30 am

Jennifer Smith, PA’s Secretary of Drug and Alcohol Programs will welcome in-person and streaming attendees to the 32nd annual CPA conference and provide an update on their prevention efforts.
Jennifer (Jen) Smith currently serves as Pennsylvania’s Secretary of Drug and Alcohol Programs. As Secretary, she leads the department’s efforts to fulfill its mission of engaging and coordinating the state’s effort to prevent and reduce substance use disorder and problem gambling; and to promote recovery, striving to reduce the human and economic impact of the disease of addiction. Smith was first appointed Secretary of DDAP in March 2018 and reappointed in April 2019 under Governor Wolf’s second term. Since assuming the role of Secretary, she has led the department’s focus on strengthening Pennsylvania’s drug and alcohol treatment landscape by increasing drug take-back opportunities, launching Pennsylvania’s Get Help Now Hotline, expanding access to naloxone in communities around Pennsylvania, and overseeing the distribution of more than $500 million in federal grant funding from the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Administration. Secretary Smith has fostered collaborations across the state to improve access to quality services for Pennsylvanians impacted by substance use disorder.

Keynote (9:30 - 10:30 am)

Presenter: Carlton Hall, Founder & CEO, Carlton Hall Consulting

Date: June 22
Time: 9:30 - 10:30 am

The role of prevention is critical in addressing addiction, which is directly and indirectly, impacting all Americans from coast to coast. The cost of Marijuana use is high. But it's not that simple. Communities are still in the midst of an opioid epidemic, while addressing emerging challenges like rising vaping injuries and a meth resurgence, during a global pandemic.

This session will discuss poly-drug misuse, racial disparities, and other social factors. The implications of creating an inequity among those who misuse, seek recovery and are exposed to the emerging commercialism

The presenter will reframe perceived “gaps in the national conversation” as opportunities to change the conversation and offer “strategies” as critical skills required to specifically impact population-level reductions in polysubstance misuse and abuse with scale and scope in diverse communities.

As a result of this session, participants will be able to:

  • Understand the importance of addressing vulnerable populations
  • Define behavioral Health Disparities
  • Understand the relationship between commercialization and marijuana myths/dangers

Workshop Options (11:00 am - noon)

Presenter: Eric Webber, CCPG Director, Legal Professionals Program, and Senior Clinician of Specialty Services, Caron Treatment Center

Date: June 22
Time: 11:00 am - noon

This presentation will examine the connections and interplay of gambling/gaming, substance use, and other addictive behaviors, how they have increased in the past years during the pandemic, and which demographics may be more susceptible to problematic involvement. It will provide specific information on various types of gamblers, gambling, addiction interaction disorders, substances, and how they interact and can cross addict.
As a result of this session, participants will be able to:

  • Identify the six types of gambler, as well as the two types of gambler
  • List specific ways in which both chemical and behavioral addictions have increased during the pandemic
  • Identify and describe 4-6 different types of addiction interaction disorders and how they relate to gambling

Presenter: Dr. Sean Fogler, Co-Founder, Elevyst

Date: June 22
Time: 11:00 am - noon

This workshop will introduce participants to the philosophy and practice of harm reduction. Foundational principles will be discussed as well as the evidence based strategies that save lives while providing a pathway to recovery. The presentation will highlight the power of the harm reduction approach as a strategy to build bridges with unlikely partners and deliver a health-centered response to the overdose crisis. Current Pennsylvania harm reduction initiatives and legislation will be discussed as well as ways to advocate for improved policy that improves the health and safety of individuals and communities across the Commonwealth.
As a result of this session, participants will be able to:

  • Discuss the foundational philosophy and practice of harm reduction
  • Discuss and analyze current Pennsylvania specific initiatives and legislation
  • Discuss the strengths of the harm reduction approach and advocate for its integration into the continuum of care


Presenters: Matt Weaver, Program Manager Compass Mark & Jeff Hanley, Executive Director, CPA

Date: June 22
Time: 11:00 am - noon

As PA continues to explore the legalization of adult use recreational marijuana, Jeff Hanley, Executive Director of CPA, will provide an update on the most recent legislative movements at the Capitol. Last year, with the support of Smart Approaches to Marijuana (SAM), CPA was able to assemble a statewide group of stakeholders that oppose legalization. Jeff will share the work of this group and how they can assist your prevention efforts while promoting the public health of all communities. Matt Weaver, Program Manager at Compass Mark, will discuss the local impacts of legalization and what it means to prevention coalitions and organizations. In addition, he will detail the importance of having a universal upstream prevention message that can be applicable to counter legalization attempts as well as combat the impacts on youth. A call to action will be shared so you can support the mission when called upon to mobilize.
Matt currently serves as Program Manager for Compass Mark, an addictions prevention nonprofit located in Lancaster County. In 2012, Matt received his Associates Degree in Psychology from Harrisburg Area Community College-Lancaster. In 2015, Matt graduated summa cum laude from Alvernia University with a degree in Behavioral Health and Addiction Studies. Prior to graduating from Alvernia, Matt interned with Compass Mark where he enjoyed a robust experience fulfilling facilitation roles throughout several programs with an emphasis on Compass Mark’s Skills for Life program; an experiential group program that pairs education with skill-building to promote healthy coping opportunities for resiliency and success. In 2016 Matt was hired full-time as a Prevention Coordinator to oversee Compass Mark’s School and community-based programs in Lancaster County. Throughout his tenure with Compass Mark, Matt has most enjoyed the daily opportunities to build impactful relationships with students of all ages, school personnel and various community members. Matt earned his Certified Prevention Specialist credential in 2020 through the Pennsylvania Certification Board. With every interaction Matt has, his hope is to help guide young people to meet their potential and achieve their own individual meaning for success. 

In January 2019, Jeff Hanley was named the first executive director of the Commonwealth Prevention Alliance (CPA), a statewide organization that supports drug and alcohol prevention professionals in eliminating substance misuse/abuse and other risk related behaviors. Jeff is not new to the world of prevention; after graduating from the University of Mount Union in Ohio, he was employed by the American Red Cross and then journeyed into the prevention field, in 2004, with Mercer County Behavioral Health Commission. Jeff and his wife, Carrie then moved to Colorado where he was hired as Special Projects Administrator of Opioid Programs, at the Jefferson County Public Health Department with a focus on Provider Education Programming and Coalition Development.

Lunch (12:15 - 1:45 pm)

Workshop Options (2:00 - 3:00 pm)

 

Presenter: David S. Anderson, Ph.D., Professor Emeritus of Education and Human Development, George Mason University

Date: June 22
Time: 2:00 - 3:00 pm

  Active leadership at the local level is essential for sustaining and improving impactful prevention direction and strategies. The Pyramid of Success and its focus on Competence, Confidence and Commitment aids new and seasoned professionals with their efforts of planning, preparation, organization and sustainability. This session blends conceptual grounding with practical insights garnered from dozens of long-term prevention advocates, with attendees gaining greater inspiration and practical insights for leading meaningful initiatives.
At the end of this session, participants will be able to:

  • To gain a renewed understanding of leadership for prevention professionals, affiliates and alcohol abuse, its root causes, and helpful strategies.
  • To provide new perspectives regarding leading organized and sustained efforts at the individual and organizational levels.
  • To enhance the competence, confidence and commitment of participants and those reached by them.

Presenter: Frank Leone, Director, Comprehensive Smoking Treatment Program, University of Pennsylvania

Date: June 22
Time: 2:00 - 3:00 pm

The Tobacco Epidemic Feeds The Opioid Epidemic! The Biological Basis for Overlap in Dependence Syndromes means that addressing the opioid epidemic absolutely require a simultaneous approach to treating other substances of abuse, including tobacco. The biological basis for the overlap between these two important public health crises is explained, and strategies for integrating tobacco treatment without disruption of SUD treatment workflow are discussed.
At the end of this session, participants will be able to:

  • Describe the biological basis of overlap between tobacco use and other substance use disorders
  • Describe the impact tobacco treatment may have on recovery outcomes
  • Identify simple tactics for integrating tobacco dependence into SUD treatment routines

Presenter: Lisa Schneller, Director, ATOD Prevention, Child Guidance Resource Centers

Date: June 22
Time: 2:00 - 3:00 pm

Over the past two years, many of us have focused on the pandemic which has resulted in increased isolation, anxiety, depression and substance misuse. Many are like a traveler out on the ocean, feeling tossed about in various directions. The winds of the media, concerns about loved ones and our well-being have thrown us off course. We will discuss external forces and how to orient north.

The North Star is a metaphor that has been with us for thousands of years, offering hope, guidance, and connection. Participants will reflect on personal and external forces that are a constant in their life. It may be a close friend or family member. Tending to a garden. Practicing yoga. Tapping into creativity. Through journal writing and discussion, we will discuss perspective, values, and gain understanding. Participants will develop self-care strategies and learn through shared experience.

As a result of this session, participants will be able to:

  • Recognize the impacts of a pandemic and how it may contribute to stress and anxiety in individuals, families, and communities
  • Reflect on who and what experiences have influenced them in a positive way and learn strategies to manage stress
  • Define their own strategies for ongoing self-care

Workshop Options (3:30 - 4:30 pm)

Presenter:  David S. Anderson, Ph.D., Professor Emeritus of Education and Human Development, George Mason University

Date: June 22
Time: 3:30 - 4:30 pm

All-too-often, college campuses and the local community conduct prevention efforts without collaborative endeavors. By working together with shared agendas, and identifying areas of overlap and varied specializations, mutual benefit can be obtained. This session highlights ways that campuses and communities can collaborate, how outreach can be made to college leaders, and areas for greater impact with their shared settings.  
At the end of this session, participants will be able to:

  • To learn about current policies, services, and strategies of colleges and universities regarding drug and alcohol misuse prevention.
  • To understand prevention overlapping and separate needs at the community and campus level.
  • To learn specific strategies and opportunities for collaboration, including campus and community coalitions

Presenter: Christina Getz, Student Assistance Program Coordinator / Children & Teens Program Coordinator, Caron Treatment Centers

Date: June 22
Time: 3:30 - 4:30 pm

The main rule in a family that is dealing with substance use is “Don’t Talk, Don’t Trust, and Don’t Feel.” That means that the children in our communities often suffer in silence. So how do we, as prevention professionals, identify these children and let them know that we are here to help? During this presentation you will be able to develop an understanding of issues that affect children impacted by a loved one’s substance use. You will also be able to gain insight on resources and support that you can offer to these children. Most importantly, you can help to let these children know that they are not alone!
As a result of this session, participants will be able to:

  • Better understand of how substance use impacts the family.
  • Recognize the various challenges of growing up in a home with substance use
  • Gain resources that can help them provide support to families impacted by substance use


 

Presenter: Melissa Perkins, Community Programs Manager, Persad Center in Pittsburgh, PA

Date: June 22
Time: 3:30 - 4:30 pm

LBGTQ youth experience a high rate of health disparities compared to their heterosexual peers.  Increasing protective factors, including family and community support and access to health care for LGBTQ youth, can help to decrease the risk for behavioral health concerns including depression, anxiety, substance use and suicidal thoughts and behavior.  Cultural competency training and assessment provide health, medical, and social service providers with an increased capacity to address health disparities, setting the stage for improved health outcomes and higher quality of life for maternal and child health populations, specifically the LGBTQ+ population. It is critical that professionals who provide health, medical, and social services recognize their own implicit biases so that they can provide care in ways that are culturally responsible.  The training is geared towards a wide network of professionals who work with youth to strengthen the capacity of partners to address the needs of a diverse population of AYAs.
As a result of this session, participants will be able to:

  • Discuss name and pronouns
  • Describe the fluidity of sexual and gender identity & expression
  • Recognize the social bias
  • Examine the health disparities
  • Review assessment tools
  • Identify how to be an ally
  • Review best practices and resources

Thursday, June 23 (blue highlighted columns are the sessions available virtually)

Welcome (9:00 - 9:30 am)

Presenter: Geoff Kolchin, Deputy Director in PCCD's Office of Justice Programs

Date: June 23
Time: 9:00 - 9:30 am

Geoff Kolchin, Deputy Director, PCCD’s Office of Justice Programs will provide an update from his organization and share his vision for prevention and detail why making connections and building collaborations are important as we continue to promote and prioritize prevention in our communities.
Geoff Kolchin is a Deputy Director in PCCD's Office of Justice Programs. He manages the Unit of Violence Prevention, which oversees the Commission’s Prevention Initiatives, and is responsible for coordination of these initiatives across all PCCD offices, as well as serving as a liaison with other State Agencies' prevention work. Mr. Kolchin serves as the state’s Project Leader for the Pennsylvania Youth Survey (PAYS), a biennial survey of youth in the 6th, 8th, 10th, and 12th grades that collects data on youth attitudes, knowledge, and beliefs about substance use and other problem behaviors. Mr. Kolchin received his BA in Government from Lehigh University and his MS in Public Policy Analysis from the University of Rochester. He has served the Commonwealth for over 24 years.Here

Keynote (9:30 - 10:30 am)

Presenter: Dr. Deborah Carrera, Executive Deputy Secretary of the Pennsylvania Department of Education (PDE)

Date: June 23
Time: 9:30 - 10:30 am

During this keynote session, Dr. Debora Carrera, Executive Deputy Secretary of the Pennsylvania Department of Education (PDE), will present PDE’s vision of prevention. Dr. Carrera will share her own experience of building protections and positive bonds with students by initiating vital prevention, health promotion, and wellness activities. Every connection matters and PDE’s partnerships with PA school districts support community prevention efforts. Helping school districts use the PAYS data to learn more about their students, make decisions, and engage partners is an important step to increase the school districts collaborations with county offices of drug and alcohol (SCA’s), offices of mental health, human services organizations, coalitions, and other community partners.
Dr. Debora Carrera joined the Pennsylvania Department of Education in June of 2021 and serves as the Executive Deputy Secretary. She is a passionate and determined educational leader focused on raising the bar, closing the achievement gap, increasing graduation rates, and ensuring all students have access to a high-quality education. She began her career in education 27 years ago teaching at the Potter Thomas Elementary School within the School District of Philadelphia, and advanced within the district serving in roles that included assistant principal, principal, and assistant superintendent.

She has been featured in American Educator magazine for her transformative work and engagement with community partners that included the Eagles Youth Partnership, PA Horticultural Society, and Mural Arts Program.  She has received the following awards: 2020-21 Fulbright Leaders for Global School Recipients-Singapore, 2018 Schoolmen’s Club Recipient, 2017 Pennsylvania Association of Hispanic School Administrators (PAHSA) Longstanding Commitment Award, 2015 Star Alumnus EDDY Award, 2014 100 Most Influential Latino Award, and the 2012 Lindback Award for Distinguished Principal Leadership.

Dr. Carrera earned a Bachelor’s of Science in Early and Elementary Education from Temple University, a Master’s in Educational Leadership from St. Joseph’s University, and a Doctorate in Educational Leadership from Gwynedd Mercy University.

Workshop Options (10:45 - 11:45 am)

Presenter:Dr. Stephanie Diez-Morel, Professor & Founder, Reboot & Recover

Date: June 23
Time: 10:45 - 11:45 am

Who is at risk for problematic gambling & gaming? What makes them at risk? How can we use the information to help prevent problematic gambling & gaming in PA? Knowing who may be more at risk to developing problematic behaviors is key for effective targeted prevention efforts. In this presentation, research-based information will highlight known risk factors and social constructs with those who have problematic gaming and gambling behaviors (i.e. convergence with gambling and gaming). This evidenced informed presentation will include recent data on who is most at risk for problem gambling & gaming in PA. Discussion will include specific information on specific gambling & gaming behaviors with at-risk groups for targeted prevention efforts. In this presentation, participants will learn what the research says and some ways in which it can be applied to develop targeted prevention programming.
As a result of this session, participants will be able to:

  • Identify the populations who are at risk and most vulnerable for problematic gambling and gaming
  • Understand specific data-driven information on at-risk groups for targeted prevention efforts
  • Describe risk factors that can be utilize to identify areas for prevention work

Presenter: Dr. Michael Lynch, Medical Directo, UPMC

Date: June 23
Time: 10:45 - 11:45 am

The use of cannabis products for both recreational and medical purposes has been the topic of significant debate with evolution of regulation that now varies by state and often in conflict with current federal law. Despite the attention that cannabis products have garnered, many questions remain regarding both the potential benefits and harms of expanded access and use. This presentation will provide background on the physiology and pharmacology of the most common cannabinoids as well as explore existing published peer-reviewed literature.
As a result of this session, participants will be able to:

  • Describe the most commonly used cannabinoids and their clinical effects
  • Summarize existing medical literature on therapeutic cannabinoid use
  • Discuss benefits and harms of expanded access and utilization of cannabis products

Presenter: Courtney C. Gambrell, Counselor & Crisis Clinicia, CORA Services & Main Line Health Systems

Date: June 23
Time: 10:45 - 11:45 am

The purpose of this training is to educate attendees about the following: evidenced-based suicide prevention tools, warning signs of suicidality, debunking myths pertaining to suicide and discussing common crisis intervention avenues. This training will also offer implications for cultural competence with discussing and/or addressing suicidality with someone in distress. Attendees should feel more confident with knowing when and how to offer support.
As a result of this session, participants will be able to:

  • Identify warning signs of suicidality and debunk commonly held myths
  • Identify evidenced-based suicide risk assessments
  • Guide individuals to appropriate crisis intervention avenues

Lunch (11:45 - 1:15 pm)

Keynote (1:30 - 2:30 pm)

Presenters: Dr. Jaime Grant, Founder, Principal, Transformations Consulting & Rev. Darlene Nipper, Chief Executive Officer, Rockwood Leadership Institute

Date: June 23
Time: 1:30 - 2:30 pm

Rev. Darlene Nipper and Dr. Jaime Grant had little in common when they met in 1990 at a tiny recovery meeting in DC. One grew up in a large Black family with deep roots in the city; the other was a transplant from Boston, raised in an immigrant Irish enclave. One worked at the grassroots level, the other at a national non-profit.

Darlene and Jaime shared a few critical connectors: they both identified as LGBTQ+ and were fighting for the lives of people in their communities facing HIV infection. They both were struggling to stay sober.

This keynote explores the role of friendship and resistance in sustaining mental health & sobriety. In a world riven by racism, sexism, and queer and transphobias – how do we connect across difference? How do principles of recovery offer pathways to solidarity and justice? How might our practices in recovery resist the simplistic denial of differences or the recreation of violent, damaging power imbalances? How can we grow love and health, together, against all odds?

As a result of this session, participants will be able to:

  • Think critically about their own story and experiences of intergenerational, familial, and state violence and the impacts of their thinking, their relationships, and their mental health
  • Apply principles embedded in recovery programs to the challenge of reckoning with violence and inequity in our relationships and larger society, forging possible pathways to solidarity and justice
  • Consider friendship and solidarity as powerful medicine, perhaps rethinking where friendship-building lies in our prescriptions for wellness among people recovering from violence and addiction

Workshop Options (3:00 - 4:00 pm)

Presenter:Nicole, Baptiste, CEO, Uproot & Build

Date: June 23
Time: 3:00 - 4:00 pm

Poverty is a complex problem that demands a comprehensive approach. The goal of the Bridges out of Poverty framework is to alleviate suffering, aid those who are making the transition out of poverty and create communities where everyone can live well. This session will provide a fresh perspective on anti-poverty practices, exploring an innovative approach where “no one owns it, yet everyone owns it.” Poverty impacts all sectors including education, healthcare, criminal justice, and employment. Many anti-poverty programs lack a system-wide approach. This session offers insight and strategies on how to break down community silos and ultimately create stability for all.
As a result of this session, participants will be able to:

  • Discuss the concrete experiences of people in generational poverty
  • Understand that knowing a person’s strongest resources assists in determining which interventions will be effective
  • Learn new strategies for improving relationships and organizational outcomes

Presenters : Jordan Joyce, Penn State EPIS, Implementation Specialist

Date: June 23
Time: 3:00 - 4:00 pm

Recent results from the 2021 PAYS data reflect that youth mental health concerns are on the rise.  The COVID-19 pandemic caused individuals of all ages to experience uncertainty, social isolation and abrupt loss taking an emotional, social, and psychological toll on young people, especially.  This 60 minute session will explore evidence-based programs that are implemented in the school setting to address mental health issues for youth.  School representatives and program facilitators will share their experience with programs that improved their student outcomes, as well s how school-based interventions taught students how to effectively manage stress, reduced barriers to mental health supports, and fostered resilience.
As a result of this session, participants will be able to:

  • Describe at least 3 ways the COVID 19 pandemic had an impact on student mental health
  • Identify Evidence-Based Programs to address student mental wellness
  • Describe how Evidence-based Programs improve child and caregiver outcomes

Presenters : Chris Naylor, Legislative and Political Director for the United Food and Commercial Workers Union, Local 1776 Keystone State & Jeff Hanley, Executive Director, CPA

Date: June 23
Time: 3:00 - 4:00 pm

In PA, there are consistent and assertive attempts to expand the access and availability of alcohol in our communities. In 2022, legislation to privatize alcohol sales is moving quickly. And, what is going to happen with cocktails to go and RTD’s (Ready to Drink canned cocktails)? Why are some stores like Sheetz and Wawa’s permitted to sell canned drinks but other establishments aren’t? During this session, Chris Naylor, Legislative and Political Director for the United Food and Commercial Workers Union, Local 1776 Keystone State, will answer these questions and provide information on the most up to date legislation. Jeff Hanley, Executive Director of CPA, will share the statewide efforts opposing privatization, address the impacts of privatization in the state of Washington, and provide options for local community education prevention efforts.
Chris Naylor is the Legislative and Political Director for the United Food and Commercial Workers Union, Local 1776 Keystone State. The union represents 35,000 members who work throughout Pennsylvania, West Virginia, New York, and Ohio in grocery stores, drugstores, food processing plants, government services, manufacturing facilities, nursing homes, professional offices, Pennsylvania’s Wine and Spirits Shops, and medical marijuana facilities.

Naylor joined the staff of UFCW 1776 in 2011 and played a key role in developing the Union’s legislative campaign to fight back against Governor Tom Corbett’s liquor privatization plan which would eliminate 3,500 UFCW members’ jobs who work at PA’s Wine and Spirits stores. He also was responsible for leading the union’s member to member political organizing programs, legislative policy research and media strategy on political and legislative issues. He was named the full-time Legislative and Political Director in 2017 and is the in-house lobbyist on all matters related to state government on behalf of the union’s membership.

Naylor is also the lead representative for UFCW 1776 in local government advocacy – helping pass one of the nation’s strongest Fair Work Week Laws in Philadelphia and defeating the potential privatization of a county run nursing home in Berks County where UFCW 1776 represents 400 members.
Prior to 2011, Naylor was a rank and file member and union shop steward for five years with UFCW while working at Superfresh Supermarkets in Philadelphia. While as a member of the union, he attended and graduated from Temple University in 2011 with a degree in political science.

Naylor resides in Philadelphia, PA with his wife and two daughters.

In January 2019, Jeff Hanley was named the first executive director of the Commonwealth Prevention Alliance (CPA), a statewide organization that supports drug and alcohol prevention professionals in eliminating substance misuse/abuse and other risk related behaviors. Jeff is not new to the world of prevention; after graduating from the University of Mount Union in Ohio, he was employed by the American Red Cross and then journeyed into the prevention field, in 2004, with Mercer County Behavioral Health Commission. Jeff and his wife, Carrie then moved to Colorado where he was hired as Special Projects Administrator of Opioid Programs, at the Jefferson County Public Health Department with a focus on Provider Education Programming and Coalition Development.

Every Connection: A CPA Networking Event (4:15 - 5:15 pm)

The past two years have taxed preventionists in all sorts of challenging ways. It’s forced us to think outside the box and sparked new and creative ways to reach those most in need of our services. Through it all, we’ve come to understand very clearly that Every Connection Matters.
In this fast-paced, high-energy session, you’ll have the opportunity to meet and talk and share stories with a wide range of your colleagues. We’ll have several super fun activities to help you re-connect to old friends and connect to new ones as well. Please join us for this truly special event.

Friday, June 24 (blue highlighted columns are the sessions available virtually)

Welcome (8:30 - 9:00 am)

Presenter: Corinne Dinoski, Director PLCB / Bureau of Alcohol Education

Date: June 23
Time: 8:30 - 9:00 am

Corinne Dinoski, Director of the PLCB Bureau of Education will discuss the prevention efforts of the PLCB, how their funding supports our communities, and how their continued efforts to support and build collaborations across PA.
Corinne Dinoski has been employed with the Pennsylvania Liquor Control Board (PLCB), in the Bureau of Alcohol Education, since 2004. She began her career as an Alcohol Education Specialist in the Responsible Alcohol Management Program (RAMP) division, focusing primarily on conducting the Owner/Manager Training to liquor license holders.In 2007, Corinne was promoted to the Central Region Supervisor of RAMP. In that position, she worked closely with the Division Chief on policies and procedures, creating a standardized Server/Seller Training and implementing online training. Corinne shifted her focus in June 2017 to the bureau’s other division, Education and Grants Management (EGM), where she served as the Division Chief. In this role, she focused on more community efforts with her main focus overseeing the agency’s Reducing Underage and Dangerous Drinking Grant Program. Since December 2017, Corinne has served as the Director of the Bureau of Alcohol Education; overseeing both the RAMP and EGM divisions.

Keynote (9:00 - 10:00 am)

Presenter: Clara Gibbons, Principal Strategist, FrameWorks Institute

Date: June 24
Time: 9:00 - 10:00 am

How can we tell more powerful stories about prevention work? How can we come together to change the narrative around prevention? How can we collectively build support for prevention programs, policies, and practices? Clara Blustein Gibbons, Principal Strategist at the FrameWorks Institute, will offer tools and strategies for crafting effective and inspirational stories about prevention.
As a result of this session, participants will be able to:

  • Articulate the importance of consistent framing to narrative change efforts
  • Apply knowledge of cognitive biases to review organizational messaging
  • Begin to formulate a plan for upcoming high-impact framing opportunities

Workshop Option (9:00 - 10:00 am)

Presenter:  Nicole Wells, Implementation Specialist, Penn State EPIS

Date: June 24
Time: 9:00 - 10:00 am

Recent results from the 2021 PAYS data reflect that youth mental health concerns are on the rise.  The COVID-19 pandemic caused individuals of all ages to experience uncertainty, social isolation and abrupt loss taking an emotional, social, and psychological toll on young people, especially.  This 60 minute session will explore evidence-based programs that are implemented in the school setting to address mental health issues for youth.  School representatives and program facilitators will share their experience with programs that improved their student outcomes, as well s how school-based interventions taught students how to effectively manage stress, reduced barriers to mental health supports, and fostered resilience.

As a result of this session, participants will be able to:

  • Describe at least 3 ways the COVID 19 pandemic had an impact on student mental health
  • Identify Evidence-Based Programs to address student mental wellness
  • Describe how Evidence-based Programs improve child and caregiver outcomes

Workshop Options (10:30 - 11:30 am)

Presenter:Kevin Puskaric, Program Director, Youth MOVE PA & Christopher Lunsford, Call for Change and Youth Care Coordinator, Pennsylvania Mental Health Consumers' Association

Date: June 24
Time: 10:30 - 11:30 am

This 1-hour presentation will focus on building authentic youth engagement by learning how to adopt the youth perspective. Participants will learn how to build, maintain, and retain meaningful youth engagement by incorporating core values of peer support to inspire and empower youth to become the leaders they want to be.
As a result of this session, participants will be able to:

  • Adopt the youth perspective and know how to use it
  • Build effective relationships with youth and young adults
  • Empower youth through leadership

Presenter: Zoe Miner, Public Health Program Manager, Office of Drug Surveillance and Misuse Prevention, Pennsylvania Department of Health

Date: June 24
Time: 10:30 - 11:30 am

This presentation will provide an overview of the Office of Drug Surveillance and Misuse Prevention, with emphasis on the office's prevention programs. The Office of Drug Surveillance and Misuse Prevention leads the Department of Health's response to the overdose epidemic. It started out with legislation in 2014 that created the Prescription Drug Monitoring Program, a system that collects information on filled prescriptions for schedule 2 through 5 controlled substances. Since then, it has grown to its current name with the addition of other public health programs to create the office's robust prevention and surveillance efforts.
As a result of this session, participants will be able to:

  • Better understand the of the role of the Office of Drug Surveillance and Misuse Prevention
  • Identify the prevention programs the office administers
  • Determine what programs can help constituents in their local communities

Presenter: Goeff Kolchin, Deputy Director in PCCD's Office of Justice Programs

Date: June 24
Time: 10:30 - 11:30 am

This is the time to be curious about our data. Join us as we learn to navigate our new reality by better understanding changes in data and what it really may mean. How do these changes inform our long range strategic planning? Guest experts will explore some key principles of data analysis and long term planning. Explore tools to use to assist in this data navigation.
 As a result of this session, participants will be able to:

  • Interpret the nuances in changes in data
  • Translate your new data into existing prevention priorities and strategic plans
  • Plan to use PAYS tools and resources in your local work

Hotel Information

THE PENN STATER CONFERENCE CENTER HOTEL ROOM RATE

Standard Double and Standard King Rooms: $127*

*Rooms are subject to an 8.5% occupancy tax plus 6% sales tax.  If your organization is tax-exempt, you must provide documentation at check-in.

OVERNIGHT ACCOMMODATIONS RESERVATION PROCEDURES

There are two ways to reserve your room at the Penn Stater Conference Center Hotel for the room rate listed above. Reservations must be made no later than Friday, May 20, 2022 by 11:59 pm to receive this rate. Both methods require a credit card to hold your room.

1) Call the Central Reservations Department at 1-800-233-7505 and identify yourself as part of the Commonwealth Prevention Alliance (CPA) Conference. Group Code: CPAC22A.

2) Use the following secure booking link to book your room:  https://thepennstaterhotel.psu.edu/

All reservations made after May 20, 2022 will be made on a space-available basis and will be booked at the hotel’s rate at the time of booking.

Cancellations received within 24 hours of arrival date AND no-shows are subject to a cancellation charge equivalents to a one-night stay, and will be charged to the credit card provided at time of reservation.

Check-in is 4:00pm and Checkout is 11:00am.  Late departures must be requested and approved in advance by calling 1-800-233-7505.  Failure to do so may result in an additional full-night being charged to the credit card provided at time of reservation.

COVID Policy

The Commonwealth Prevention Alliance (CPA) is committed to providing a safe, healthy, and memorable 32nd Annual CPA Conference for all in attendance. We are continuing to monitor the public health situation and the guidelines of the Centers for Disease Control & Prevention (CDC), the World Health Organization (WHO), and the PA Department of Health (PADOH).

  • Specifically, out of an abundance of caution and safety, CPA is requiring all 2022 Annual Conference in-person attendees and presenters to be fully vaccinated against COVID-19. We consider people as fully vaccinated for COVID-19 in accordance with CDC guidelines. Proof of vaccination will be required and testing will not be an available alternative for entry to the event.
  • While on-site at The Penn Stater Hotel and Conference Center, attendees and presenters will be required to wear masks at all times, except when actively eating or drinking. (Conference presenters may remove mask while presenting.)
  • We will be asking all attendees and presenters to monitor their health daily and to notify a conference representative should they feel ill at any time.
  • We are not the only event at the Penn Stater Hotel and Conference Center during our scheduled conference.  Their COVID-19 guidelines may differ from the CPA’s.
  • Refusal to abide by CPA's COVID-19 related procedures may result in removal from the conference and cancellation of registration, without refund.

While we respect the individual and alternative choices of our CPA members and constituents, we are not deviating from our vaccination requirement outlined above.  If any prospective registrant feels uncomfortable attending an in-person, we do offer the Virtual Sessions as a separate Conference Registration option.

Creating a safe and healthy experience for conference participants is our top priority. Each participant has a personal responsibility to abide by all guidelines, instructions, and signs, and to take appropriate steps to stay safe and healthy and to keep other participants safe and healthy. By registering for the conference, each participant assumes the risk of contracting any illness and waives any claims against the Commonwealth Prevention Alliance, its staff, board, affiliates, conference contractors, and conference sponsors, and assigns relating to illness, releases them from any liability relating to illness, and will indemnify them for any third-party claims relating to illness and arising because of the participant’s actions or inactions. These obligations relating to illness supplement and do not replace any other waiver, release, indemnification, or other responsibilities that participants have with respect to Commonwealth Prevention Alliance, its staff, board, affiliates, conference contractors, and conference sponsors.

By registering for the conference, you agree and will adhere to the above policy and procedures.

Should you have any further questions, please contact Jeff Hanley: jeff.hanley@commonwealthpreventionalliance.org.

Cancellation Policy

To cancel a 2022 conference registration and request a refund, you must contact Jeff Hanley, via email, at jeff.hanley@commonwealthpreventionalliance.org by Friday, May 27, 2022, 4:00 p.m. EST.  For cancellations made by this date and time your registration fee will be refunded, less a $25 administrative fee.

No refunds will be given for cancellations made after May 27, 2020, 4:00 p.m. Conference no-shows will forfeit all registration fees paid to the Commonwealth Prevention Alliance.

If you switch to a virtual option (from an ‘ in person’  attendance option) after May 27, 2022 we are unable to give an adjustment in cost. While you certainly can switch to the virtual  format, you must indicate this change by May 27, 2022 or  you will still be charged for the full ‘in person’ rate. We apologize for any inconvenience this causes, but due to our contractual and financial obligations with the Penn Stater, we are unable to make this adjustment after May 27, 2022.

All registration payments must be received by Friday, June 10, 2022. The Commonwealth Prevention Alliance reserves the right to refuse admission if full payment is not received prior to the event.

Registrants may request to send a substitute to the in-person or virtual event up to Friday, June 10, 2022.  To do so, please contact Jeff Hanley, at jeff.hanley@commonwealthpreventionalliance.org.

Conference Sponsors

CPA is incredibly grateful to our state partners who value, support, and assist in guiding the prevention efforts across Pennsylvania.

  • Thank you to the PA Department of Drug and Alcohol Programs (DDAP) for their conference sponsorship!
  • Thank you to the PA Commission on Crime and Delinquency (PCCD) and the Evidence-based Prevention and Intervention Support (EPIS) for their continued support of CPA's events and initiatives!
pa-ddap logo
pccd-logo
EPIS logo