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FAMU MMERI created an award-winning anti-vaping campaign designed to curb the habit\n among young people, who are impacted the most. (Photo special to FAMU)<\/p>\n
Honor presented during the National Drug and Alcohol Screening Association’s (NDASA)
\n 2026 Annual Conference and Trade Show <\/p>\n
Florida A&M University\u2019s Medical Marijuana Education and Research Initiative (MMERI)
\n received a national award during the 2026 National Drug and Alcohol Screening Association
\n (NDASA) Annual Conference and Trade Show, held in Los Angeles.<\/p>\n
FAMU MMERI created an award-winning anti-vaping campaign designed to curb the habit
\n among young people, who are impacted the most. (Photo special to FAMU)<\/p>\n
NDASA recognized MMERI\u2019s Youth Vaping Education and Empowerment Initiative, a prevention-focused
\n effort designed to inform and equip young people with tools to make healthy decisions,
\n build refusal skills, and understand the real-world impact of vaping on learning,
\n well-being, and long-term health. The initiative also equips parents, caregivers,
\n educators, and community partners with practical strategies to prevent youth vaping.<\/p>\n
\u201cOur goal is simple: empower families, support schools, and protect our youth through
\n education,\u201d said GP Mendie, assistant vice president for research and executive director of MMERI. \u201cThis recognition
\n from NDASA reinforces the urgency of youth vaping prevention and the power of youth-centered
\n information that helps young people navigate pressure and make healthy choices.\u201d<\/p>\n
NDASA\u2019s annual conference brings together prevention, education, and screening professionals
\n from across the country to share best practices and strengthen community-based approaches
\n that support safer, healthier workplaces and communities. This year\u2019s theme, \u201cPowered
\n by Purpose,\u201d spotlighted mission-driven work that strengthens communities through
\n education, prevention, and proven best practices.<\/p>\n
\u201cProviding education on the risks of vaping fulfills a critical public service as
\n the future health of a generation of America\u2019s youth is at stake,\u201d said Jo McGuire, CSAPA, executive director of the NDASA. \u201cI am grateful to FAMU MMERI for creating
\n a culture of care through this essential education and awareness campaign. It matters.\u201d<\/p>\n
\u201cThe National Drug and Alcohol Screening Association proudly recognizes FAMU MMERI
\n for their outstanding commitment to youth prevention through the Youth Vaping Education
\n & Empowerment Initiative,\u201d said NDASA Chairman Mark Magsam. \u201cAt a time when vaping continues to present significant challenges for young people,
\n their leadership and dedication to education are helping create healthier futures.
\n This work demonstrates that when we invest in awareness and prevention, we empower
\n youth to make informed decisions that can positively shape their lives for years to
\n come.”<\/p>\n
For more information about MMERI and its youth education initiatives, visit MMERI\u2019s About MMERI<\/p>\n The Medical Marijuana Education and Research Initiative at Florida A&M University About NDASA<\/p>\n The National Drug & Alcohol Screening Association advocates for safe and drug-free Main Contact<\/p>\n Rachel James-Terry
\n website at MMERI.FAMU.edu<\/a><\/p>\n
\n is a statewide initiative that educates and informs Floridians about medical marijuana
\n and the potential consequences to health and well-being from illicit use. MMERI ensures
\n widespread dissemination of educational information about cannabis across the state
\n through an interactive website, community outreach activities, and engaging conversations
\n on cannabis. Visit MMERI.FAMU.edu<\/a> for more information. <\/p>\n
\n workplaces and communities through legislative advocacy, education, training, and
\n excellence in drug and alcohol screening services. With more than 3,000 members, the
\n NDASA is the largest trade association representing the drug and alcohol testing industry,
\n including collectors, laboratories, medical review officers, and employers across
\n the country. Visit ndasa.com<\/a> for more information. <\/p>\n
Senior Director of Strategic Communications
rachel.jamesterry@famu.edu<\/a>\u00a0\u00a0<\/p>\n