First Lady Suzanne S. Youngkin, Secretary of Health and Human Resources Janet V. Kelly, former Secretary of the Commonwealth Kay Coles James, and JMU Leadership at James Madison University.Photo: Office of First Lady Suzanne S. Youngkin
On Thursday, August 21, 2025, Virginia First Lady Suzanne S. Youngkin visited James Madison University to officially kick off the Fentanyl College Ambassador Program in recognition of National Fentanyl Prevention and Awareness Day. She was joined by Secretary of Health and Human Resources Janet V. Kelly, university officials, and student leaders for the event.
The new program is part of a broader statewide push against the opioid crisis, which—through policy changes, naloxone access, education, and law enforcement—has helped drive a 46% drop in overdose deaths since the state’s peak in 2021.
The launch began with a reception at the Atlantic Union Bank Center, where Youngkin met with student organizations and highlighted the “It Only Takes One” (IOTO) campaign. She emphasized that students are critical to saving lives: “This initiative equips students with the tools and courage to make a difference on their campuses and in their communities. It only takes one person, one conversation, and one decision to save a life.”
The day concluded at Sentara Park during JMU’s men’s soccer match, where the First Lady shared more about IOTO and the Ambassador Program with the broader community.
Local statistics also reflect progress: between 2023 and 2024, Harrisonburg and Rockingham reported a 16.7% decline in overall drug-related deaths and a 70% reduction in fentanyl fatalities, while deaths from non-opioid substances have remained steady.
SOURCE: Rocktown Now