We’re honored to welcome Ryan Leaf as our keynote speaker for both summit dates. A former NFL quarterback whose personal journey through addiction, incarceration, and recovery has inspired audiences nationwide, Ryan brings a powerful, firsthand perspective on the intersection of justice and substance use. His story of resilience and redemption will set the tone for a summit focused on hope, healing, and real change.
Ryan Leaf, former NFL quarterback turned motivational speaker and mentor, draws from his personal journey—from professional downfall to redemption—to offer guidance on navigating difficult relationships, especially in high-pressure environments. In his talk or writings on how to work with complicated people, Leaf emphasizes:
Ryan Leaf’s insights carry extra weight because they come from someone who was once considered one of the biggest “busts” in NFL history. His fall was public and brutal, but his comeback story is rooted in vulnerability, accountability, and service to others—particularly those facing addiction, incarceration, or personal crisis.
His approach to complicated people isn’t theoretical; it’s been lived out in locker rooms, jail cells, rehab centers, and counseling sessions. By focusing on humility and healing, Leaf flips the script on traditional views of conflict—reminding us that behind difficult behavior is usually a deeper struggle. His message challenges us to lead with grace, not just strategy.
Leaf’s voice is especially relevant for leaders, coaches, mentors, and anyone working in high-stakes environments where personalities often clash. His story also reinforces a core truth: People don’t need to be perfect to be powerful catalysts for change.
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Event Description
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Statement of Need – The growing prevalence of substance use disorders among incarcerated individuals highlights a critical need for education and enhanced understanding among professionals working within the justice system. Many individuals in this system struggle with serious mental illness, substance use disorders, or co-occurring disorders yet face significant barriers, including a lack of resources and inadequate coordination with care providers upon release. As noted by the Bureau of Justice Assistance, these challenges prevent access to essential SUD treatment and continuity of care, ultimately resulting in a high rate of recidivism. Most individuals return to their communities without the necessary treatment, which often leads to a relapse into substance use and further encounters with law enforcement. Therefore, there is a need for initiatives like the upcoming summit, which will provide valuable insights into the work of the Alabama Bureau of Pardons and Paroles, Community Corrections, and Peer Support Specialists. By addressing these issues, we can work towards reducing stigma and improving outcomes for individuals with substance use disorders within the justice system.
Learning Objectives – After attending this course, participants will be able to:
- Describe the role and value of cross-sector collaboration between justice agencies, public health organizations, and social services in addressing substance use and justice involvement.
- Analyze how integrated services, such as PEERs and behavioral health professionals, contribute to long-term recovery and a reduction in recidivism.
- Explain the components of trauma-informed Crisis Intervention Training and demonstrate how it can be integrated into justice system practices.
- Evaluate current diversion and substance use treatment programs within the justice system, identifying strengths and areas for improvement.
- Assess the impact of stigma on individuals with substance use disorders in the justice system and propose strategies to reduce its effects.
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Continuing Education
NBCC – The Office of Teaching Innovation and Digital Education at The University of Alabama has been approved by NBCC as an Approved Continuing Education Provider. This program is approved for 5.50 credits. ACEP No. 7285. Programs that do not qualify for NBCC credit are clearly identified. The University of Alabama is solely responsible for all aspects of the programs.
ASBSWE – The University of Alabama is an approved provider of continuing education by the Alabama State Board of Social Work Examiners (Provider #0290). This training offers social workers 5.50 contact hours.
APOST – Alabama Peace Officers Standards & Training Commission credits, if approved by your agency head. This training offers 5.50 APOST credits.
CLE – This training has been approved by the Alabama State Bar for 5.50 credits of continuing legal education.
CRSS – This training has been approved for 5.50 continuing education credit hours for Certified Recovery Support Specialists.