2019 Winner: David Pratt
Hi, I’m David and I am in my senior year at Oregon Institute of Technology. It’s been a long time getting here, but it feels amazing to be graduating this year! My college career started many years ago when a bright future turned dark. I had tried opioid pain pills and soon became addicted. I dropped out of school and spent many years in a living hell. Clarity came at the age of 26 when I realized that I needed to make a drastic change. I have now been sober from all drugs and alcohol for over 5 years!! I spend my free time with my family, connecting with struggling addicts, speaking at rehab centers, and corresponding with inmates who are trying to better themselves.
Reaction Statement: When I got the call that I had won the Whitley Law Firm Opioid Crisis Scholarship, I could not believe it!! I have worked so hard to turn my life around and get to this point. Being recognized for this award gives me strength to continue on the right path. I am so grateful for receiving this award to help me get through my last year of undergraduate studies!
2018 Winner: Harrison Peddle
My name is Harrison Peddle and I am a freshman at the University of North Carolina at Charlotte! I love working with people and encouraging them to make positive decisions that will impact them for the rest of their lives! During my sophomore year of high school a peer of mine passed away due to a drug overdose. The fear and shock that spread across my school led me to the creation of what I call the CORE Club. C stands for Character, O stands for opposing drugs, R stands for responsible choices, and E stands for expectations! To address the opioid crisis I believe that recovery and prevention programs must openly communicate with government programs and laws that encourage society to “LIVE FOR TOMORROW”. The CORE Club is an organization that I wanted to bring to my college campus! I challenge myself to reach more and more individuals each day! During my first semester of college I was able to establish the CORE Club on campus and begin recruiting members who will aid me in reaching out to students!
Reaction Statement: I am truly honored to have been selected as the recipient of the Whitley Law Firm Opioid Crisis Scholarship! When I received the phone call that I had won, I was totally surprised and overwhelmed with excitement! The scholarship will aid me in continuing my education and leadership as President of the CORE Club! With the Whitley Law Firm Opioid Crisis Scholarship I am able to continue my passion as I look forward to encouraging my peers to live a drug-free lifestyle!
