Stigma—a set of negative beliefs held by a group or society—creates significant challenges for individuals facing substance use disorder (SUD). The World Health Organization recognizes stigma as a harmful force, hindering treatment and recovery efforts. Alarmingly, public perceptions often view individuals with SUD more negatively than those with mental health disorders, perpetuating the destructive cycle of this disease.
In Alabama, stigma serves as a major barrier to seeking treatment and deeply impacts how individuals perceive themselves. This summit is dedicated to breaking down these barriers by dispelling myths, sharing evidence-based practices, and shining a spotlight on stigma as a critical public health issue. Join us in fostering understanding, compassion, and meaningful change.
Upcoming 2026 Summit Dates
February 19 – Mobile
Mobile RegistrationFebruary 20 – Prattville
Prattville RegistrationFebruary 23 – Huntsville
Huntsville RegistrationFebruary 24 – Birmingham
Birmingham RegistrationFebruary 25 – Dothan
Dothan Registration-
Who Should Attend?
Physicians, nurse practitioners, physician assistants, registered nurses, social workers, counselors, first responders, law enforcement, criminal justice, and any professional who is interested in developing compassion and an understanding of stigma around substance use disorders.
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Keynote Speakers
Dr. Brian Anderson
Dr. Anderson is a Certified Peer Specialist, Recovery Educator, Whole Health and Wellness Coach, WRAP facilitator, Mental Health First Aid trainer, and founder of Beautiful Scars Inc. He is a three-time author, best-selling co-author, and recipient of the Presidential Lifetime Achievement Award from the Office of the President of the United States (2024). Dr. Anderson has also received the Andrew Young Center’s Dream Keepers Grant Award.
Chef Jeff Henderson
Praised for his extraordinary journey of self-transformation and culinary excellence, Chef Jeff Henderson has become one of America’s most inspiring chefs. Recognized by USA Today as “the high-profile chef to watch” and hailed by Oprah Winfrey as “a true role model” and “a remarkable success story,” Chef Jeff has captivated the world with his unique blend of culinary mastery and motivational insight. Jeff’s culinary journey began in the most unlikely place: a federal prison kitchen. During his nearly 10-year sentence, he discovered a passion for cooking that would transform his life. Upon release in 1996, he pursued his culinary career with relentless determination—working his way up from dishwasher to line cook under the tutelage of Chef Robert Gadsby. Alongside his culinary success, Jeff launched The Chef Jeff Project, a nonprofit dedicated to transforming the lives of at-risk youth and formerly incarcerated individuals. Through mentorship, vocational training, and hands-on opportunities in the culinary industry, the program has given hundreds of men and women a second chance at success.
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Approved Continuing Education
ASBSWE – The University of Alabama, School of Social Work is an approved provider of continuing education by the Alabama Board of Social Work Examiners. This training offers 6 contact hours for social workers.ABN – This program has been reviewed and is acceptable for up to 6 nursing contact hours.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 6 credits.CRCC – 6 hours – Pending.APOST – Alabama Peace Officers Standards & Training Commission credits, if approved by your agency head. This training offers 6 APOST credits.CRSS – This program is sponsored by the Alabama Department of Mental Health and has been approved for 6 continuing education credit hours for Certified Recovery Support Specialists.JPO – 6 hours – Pending.
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Cancellations and Refunds
A cancellation charge of 100% of the registration fee will be assessed on cancellations occurring within seven (7) days of the start of this session. Refunds will not be granted after the program has begun. The University of Alabama reserves the right to cancel, postpone or combine class sections, to limit registration or to change instructors. To cancel your registration, contact the Registration Services department at 205-348-3000 or registration_services@ua.edu. View the OTIDE Cancellation Policy: https://ua-public.policystat.com/policy/14682703/latest/