From (left) Lisa Jennings, Herman Moore, Wendy Klinski, Joique Bell, and Dr. James Miller attended the Sports Impact Luncheon to discuss suicide and the struggles of addiction.
MCCC provided the La-Z-Boy Center’s Meyer Theatre for a Sports Impact Luncheon on April 24.
The event, which is part of the Sports Impact series, contained a panel of five speakers and highlighted the issues and stories of those affected by addiction, suicide and the overall opioid epidemic.
President Kojo Quartey opened the event with a moment of silence. He then thanked the students for attending and lightened the mood by poking fun at the current college bribery scandal.
“You don’t have to bribe us or pay us $500,000 for your kids to get in,” Quartey said.
Following Quartey’s opening remarks was Fox 2’s news anchor, Amy Andrews, who hosted the event.
“This is an issue near and dear to my heart, and I truly care about each one of you and I want you to have bright, healthy, happy futures,” Andrews said.
Andrews said, despite being on T.V., her life isn’t perfect, and the issues of addiction and suicide affect her as well.
“I think each and every one of us has been touched by either addiction or someone they love dying by suicide.”
Last December, Fox 2 was devastated by the loss of meteorologist Jessica Star, who fell victim to suicide.
Andrews also informed the audience that her younger brother struggles with addiction.
Also in attendance was former University of Michigan running back Chris Evans, who said taking care of kids and the younger generation leads to a brighter future.
The event also included: Executive Director for Monroe Community Mental Health Authority Lisa Jennings, former Lions wide receiver Herman Moore, Assistant Director of Behavioral Health Catholic Charities of Southeast Michigan Wendy Klinski, former Lions running back Joique Bell and Dr. James Miller.
