Collegiate Recovery Week, an annual celebration organized by the Association of Recovery in Higher Education (ARHE), will take place from April 14-18, 2025. This year marks the 15th anniversary of ARHE, and the theme, “15 Years of Growth: Rooted in Support, Branching into the Future,” highlights the progress and impact of Collegiate Recovery Programs (CRPs) over the past decade and a half.
What is Collegiate Recovery Week?
Collegiate Recovery Week is a time to celebrate and advocate for CRPs, which provide crucial support for students in recovery from substance use disorders, mental health challenges, and other issues. These programs foster safe, supportive campus communities where students can thrive academically, socially, and personally. Since its inception in 2010, ARHE has grown to include more than 150 institutional members across North America and beyond, reflecting the increasing recognition of recovery as an integral part of higher education.
2025 Highlights and Events
This year’s celebrations will include a variety of events focused on reflection, education, and connection. Key activities include:
- April 14: Celebrating Our Roots: Kickoff Town Hall with ARHE staff to launch the week’s events. Andy Finch will give a historical presentation on the evolution of collegiate recovery programs.
- April 15: Collegiate Recovery Day: Participants are encouraged to wear purple and share photos using hashtags like #WearPurple and #CollegiateRecoveryDay—a presentation by Dr. Noel Vest on research findings about CRPs’ impact on students and institutions.
- April 16: Cultivating Community: An interactive session led by Jason Parete focusing on mindfulness and creative expression as tools for recovery.
- April 17: Nurturing Growth: Discussions on shifting paradigms around substance use and addiction in higher education. A panel exploring the past and future of recovery initiatives.
- April 18: Branching Into the Future: A session on accessibility in higher education for students with chronic illnesses or substance use disorders.
Why Celebrate Collegiate Recovery?
Collegiate Recovery Week is an opportunity to honor the resilience of students in recovery and recognize the transformative power of supportive communities. As Dr. Kristine De Jesus, ARHE Advisory Council co-chair, explains, “Collegiate Recovery Week provides an opportunity to celebrate and honor the incredible things that students in recovery do when they are provided with the support necessary to thrive.”
The week also serves as a platform to advocate for increased accessibility to recovery resources on campuses worldwide. By sharing stories of success and raising awareness, CRPs aim to inspire institutions to expand their support systems for students in need.
How to Get Involved:
– Participate in campus events or virtual sessions hosted by ARHE.
– Wear purple on April 15 to show solidarity with students in recovery.
– Share your stories or events on social media using #CollegiateRecoveryWeek.
– Encourage your institution to join ARHE’s efforts by developing or enhancing recovery programs.
Looking Ahead
As ARHE celebrates its 15th anniversary, it remains committed to fostering a future where every student in recovery has access to the support they need. Collegiate Recovery Week is not just a celebration but also a call to action—inviting everyone to join hands in building stronger communities that prioritize health, well-being, and academic success for all students.
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If you or someone you know is struggling with alcohol use disorder, substance use disorder, a co-occurring illness, or a behavioral health disorder, we urge you to seek help. While the task may seem daunting, it’s important to remember that support is readily available and that there are people out there who want to help.
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