Mobilize Recovery’s Campus Surge made an unforgettable stop at Rutgers University–New Brunswick, hosted in collaboration with the Rutgers Recovery House. The event brought together students, faculty, and community members for an evening of learning, connection, and celebration of recovery.

The program opened with a resource fair featuring more than 25 organizations sharing information on mental health, recovery, and harm reduction — including access to overdose reversal agents and fentanyl test strips. Attendees also enjoyed a buffet dinner and opportunities to network and build community before the main program began.

One of the evening’s highlights was the premiere of “The History of Collegiate Recovery at Rutgers,” which celebrated the university’s pioneering leadership in the collegiate recovery movement.

The event featured an impressive lineup of speakers, including:

• Dr. Francesca Maresca, Interim Vice Chancellor for the Student Experience, Rutgers University
• Keith Murphy, Director, Alcohol and Other Drug Assistance Program (ADAP), Rutgers University
• Frank Greenagel, Head Therapist for the New York State Troopers and Clinical Director of Tidal Shift
• Kim Govak, Founder and CEO, EmPanda Perspectives
• Creighton Drury, CEO, Partnership to End Addiction
• Lauren Sisler, ESPN reporter, broadcaster, and author
• Tom Farley, Community Outreach Director, Recovery.com
• Izzy M., Rutgers alumna and grief support advocate

Through their stories and expertise, each speaker highlighted the power of connection, peer support, and advocacy in sustaining recovery on college campuses. The evening concluded with a moving musical performance by American Idol winner Noah Thompson, whose music brought the room together in celebration and hope.

At Rutgers, the Campus Surge once again demonstrated what makes this movement so special — the unity, courage, and compassion that drive a new generation of recovery leaders.

Mobilize Recovery

What a powerful event! Mobilize Recovery's Campus Surge 2025 at Rutgers University successfully brought together the community to address substance use and mental health among students. We...