Eagles in Recovery is run by Health Promotions and Student Success Specialist Ray Tuttle (left) and Peer Recovery Specialist Devin Walsh (right). Along with the recovery coffee bike (seen here), they serve up hot beverages, education and outreach to the campus community. Photo by Parker Michel Boyce.
The Eagles in Recovery Program at University of Mary Washington has been awarded a $104,227 grant from the Virginia Opioid Abatement Authority (OAA) to expand support for students in recovery from substance use.
Eagles in Recovery, which began in 2017, offers resources for students in all stages of recovery, from the sober-curious to those overcoming addiction. The state funding will assist with program services, staffing and training. It’s renewable annually for the next four years through a reapplication process, which UMW plans to pursue.
“Eagles in Recovery has become a cornerstone in UMW’s efforts to support student well-being,” said Peer Recovery Specialist Devin Walsh. “This grant helps ensure that students have access to a supportive community and resources to succeed academically while maintaining their recovery.”
The program includes weekly meetings and initiatives, such as recovery ally training, a dedicated clubhouse where students in recovery can connect, and a coffee bike that provides hot beverages, education and outreach. Through the years, additional support for the program’s substance-free mission have come through donor contributions and Fund for Mary Washington Impact Grants. Read more.