On July 17, 2025, the Friends of the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) convened a powerful congressional briefing, “Advancing the Science of Addiction Recovery,” at the Rayburn House Office Building in Washington, D.C. The event underscored the vital role of research in shaping effective recovery policy and practice, bringing together leading voices in addiction science and advocacy.

Congressman Paul Tonko (NY), a longtime champion for evidence-based addiction policy, opened the session with remarks highlighting the urgency of translating scientific discovery into real-world solutions that support recovery at every stage.

The briefing featured a distinguished panel of researchers, including:

• Dr. Nora Volkow, Director of NIDA, who emphasized the federal agency’s commitment to supporting cutting-edge research that deepens our understanding of recovery pathways.
• Dr. John Kelly, of Massachusetts General Hospital, a pioneer in recovery science whose work continues to inform best practices across clinical and community-based settings.
• Dr. Aaron Hogue, of the Partnership to End Addiction, who presented on family-based and youth-focused recovery interventions.
• Dr. Noel Vest, of Boston University, who shared new findings from a multi-method investigation into Collegiate Recovery Programs.

Dr. Vest’s presentation spotlighted how student-led mutual-help groups, recovery-supportive campus cultures, and strong institutional leadership contribute to the success of Collegiate Recovery Programs (CRPs). His research offers critical insights into how universities can create environments where students with substance use disorders are empowered to thrive academically and personally.

The event served as a call to action for lawmakers and advocates to invest in recovery research and implement policies that reflect what the science tells us: recovery is not only possible, it’s supported and sustained through connection, compassion, and community.

As part of our mission at Mobilize Recovery, we are proud to amplify these conversations and push for policies that make recovery accessible and sustainable for all.

A fantastic day on the Hill. Wonderful seeing recovery science taking center stage. https://t.co/9O6vbLLKiM

— Noel Vest, PhD (@noelvest) July 20, 2025