Georgetown University Hilltop Campus
On October 7, Mobilize Recovery brought Campus Surge 2025 to Georgetown University. The O’Neill Institute’s Center on Addiction and Public Policy together with the Georgetown School of Health Master of Science in Addiction Policy and Practice and Hoyas for Recovery hosted an energizing, community-driven experience grounded in hope, healing, and recovery.
Mobilize Recovery is part of a nationwide effort among college communities to dismantle barriers, raise awareness, and champion the vital truth that hope, healing, and recovery are achievable for everyone. This event brought together students, faculty, advocates, and community organizations to support students in starting or furthering their advocacy journey for recovery within their communities.
A resource fair on Red Square kicked off the day, where representatives from 10+ community organizations provided information on critical resources, how to engage with others in the recovery community, and the latest community-based addiction advocacy efforts. Organizations present at the fair included DC Recovery Advocacy Project, HIPS, The Truth Initiative, and Song for Charlie.
Following the resource fair, a powerful panel discussion took place on the importance of building communities of recovery on campuses. Boston University’s Dr. Noel Vest presented groundbreaking research on collegiate recovery. Dr. Vest then moderated a panel featuring members of Hoyas for Recovery, Amber Lashbaugh, Jacob Lignell, and Spencer Morrissey. They shared moving testimonials of their personal experiences, as well as underscored the impact of campus recovery programs in developing and fostering inclusive, supportive recovery communities.
This year’s Campus Surge provided an opportunity to foster community connection and dialogue, as dozens of community members — from students in the Master of Science in Addiction Policy and Practice program to alumni, community advocates, and policymakers — came together to address substance use and mental health issues facing college students.
The event concluded with a live musical performance by 2022 American Idol Winner, Noah Thompson.