VCU Expands Fentanyl College Ambassador Program — A Step Forward with 2 End the Stigma
- Matthew Boone
- 1 day ago
- 2 min read
Last week, Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU) announced the expansion of its Fentanyl College Ambassador Program — an initiative that empowers students to raise awareness about the dangers of fentanyl and provide support and resources on campus. The expansion is part of It Only Takes One, an effort supported statewide by Suzanne Youngkin. CBS 6 News Richmond WTVR.
Why This Matters
The opioid and fentanyl crisis continues to pose a serious threat — not just off campus, but in college communities. Even a single “pill” can carry deadly risks when fentanyl is involved. By expanding the Ambassador Program, VCU is recognizing the urgency of the crisis and mobilizing students to lead prevention, awareness, and peer support.
The Human Stories Behind the Effort
Among those who spoke at the announcement was Jill Cichowicz — founder of 2 End the Stigma — who shared the heartbreaking story of losing her twin brother to a fentanyl overdose. She described how he was once a healthy, active man running gyms, but after a back injury and reliance on prescription opioids, a single pill — disguised as OxyContin — turned out to be laced with enough fentanyl to be lethal. CBS 6 News Richmond WTVR.
Also featured was Tom Bannard, who after his own struggles with addiction helped create Rams in Recovery at VCU. His message reminded everyone that addiction is not a sign of moral failure or bad parenting — it’s a health issue, and people deserve help, compassion, and a second chance. CBS 6 News Richmond WTVR.
These personal stories remind us why stigma must end — behind every statistic is a human life, impacted families, and the potential for recovery if help is offered instead of judgment.
What the Expanded Program Does
Raise Awareness: Ambassadors will educate peers about the dangers of fentanyl — including how a single pill can be deadly. CBS 6 News Richmond WTVR.
Peer-to-Peer Outreach: Students can connect with peers in a non-judgmental environment, offering support and resources.
Overdose Response Training: The program includes opportunities for training in overdose response — a critical skill in a time when fentanyl overdoses can happen suddenly. CBS 6 News Richmond WTVR.
Why We Support This
At 2 End the Stigma, we believe in saving lives through compassion, honesty, and awareness. By supporting initiatives like the Fentanyl College Ambassador Program, we help communities shift from fear and silence toward prevention, support, and healing.
This expansion at VCU is more than a campus program — it’s a symbol of hope: that education, empathy, and honest conversations can help protect students and give families a chance to heal.
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