Campus Surge 2025 Brings Hope and Advocacy to the University of Central Arkansas
Students, advocates, and state leaders gathered in Conway to celebrate recovery and build leadership for change.
Mobilize Recovery brought the Campus Surge 2025 initiative to the University of Central Arkansas in Conway, marking another inspiring stop in the national effort to address substance use and mental health challenges among college students.
The event took place on September 30 at the Student Center Amphitheater, coinciding with both National Recovery Month and International Recovery Day—a global celebration recognizing that recovery is possible and that hope thrives after addiction.
Throughout the afternoon, students and community members participated in educational workshops focused on addiction, recovery, and mental health, led by experts and advocates from across the state. The event also featured empowerment and leadership training, equipping students with tools to become effective advocates and changemakers on their campuses and in their communities.
The celebration included musical performances, giveaways, and interactive exhibits designed to foster connection and conversation around recovery. Attendees also had access to life-saving resources, including overdose reversal agents and fentanyl test strips, to help reduce fatalities and strengthen community safety.
Special guests added inspiration and insight to the day’s program, including:
- Noah Thompson, country artist and 2022 American Idol winner
- Tom Farley, New York Times bestselling author of The Chris Farley Show, recovery advocate, and Community Outreach Director at Recovery.com
- Luke Niforatos, Executive Vice President of Smart Approaches to Marijuana
The University of Central Arkansas event captured the essence of the Campus Surge movement—uniting education, empowerment, and celebration to remind students everywhere that recovery is possible, hope is real, and their voices matter.
