Caty Davis
Lee University will host “Restoration and Recovery: Faith Communities and the Opioid Crisis,” a panel discussing the Bradley County opioid epidemic, on Wednesday at 6:30 p.m. in the Dixon Center on Lee’s campus.
This event, a collaboration between Lee’s Department of Behavioral & Social Sciences and The Bridge, is the second of two panels to occur. The Bridge is a local organization whose mission is to protect the next generation from substance abuse and prepare them to become responsible citizens.
The evening will include three speakers and follow with a Q&A session.
“There have been many attempts to treat people with their addictions and promote a more sustainable recovery, but research somewhat shows otherwise,” said Dr. Arlie Tagayuna, associate professor of sociology at Lee. “Many promising studies show the value of community in recovery programs. I believe that the heart of dealing with the opioid crisis is for people of faith to come together and empower the community life as a tool to show Christ’s forgiveness in their way to restoration.”
Panelists for this event include Caty Davis, Dr. Bob Fisher, and Brian Keplinger.
Ms. Davis, 2017’s Miss Tennessee, is dedicated to promoting awareness and fundraising for substance abuse prevention and treatment across Tennessee. Her family has been plagued by a multi-generational addiction to alcohol and opioids, and she has multiple family members who have battled or are struggling with addiction.
Dr. Fisher is a professor of psychology at Lee, where he teaches courses in physiological psychology and drugs and behavior.
Mr. Keplinger is a substance abuse counselor and director of South Cleveland Church of God’s Celebrate Recovery program, which helps attendees find love, hope, and freedom from their hurts, habits, and hang-ups.
The event is free, non-ticketed, and open to the public.
For more information, contact Robin Tirey at rtirey@leeuniversity.edu.
Dr. Bob Fisher