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June 2025—Vol. 14 Welcome to the DEA Educational Foundation (DEAEF) newsletter. It is with great sadness that we open this volume of The Impact with news of the passing of our beloved DEA Educational Foundation Founder, William F. Alden (Bill). Bill was a loyal friend, a dynamic mentor and impressive leader. His vision, motivation and contributions deeply shaped the DEAEF. And, his unwavering dedication to educating our youth and communities on the importance of drug prevention lends to the values we hold today. Bill's passing leaves a deep void in our lives, but we are grateful for learning from his experience, knowledge and passion for making a difference and making an impact on our world.
William F. AldenJuly 11, 1943–April 30, 2025William F. Alden, 81, passed away on April 30th, 2025. He suffered from a rare neurological disease called PSP. Born on July 11, 1943 in Glens Falls, N.Y., he was the son of the late William B. Alden and Beatrice Alden LaPoint. William married Patricia M. Smatko from Fort Edward, N.Y. in September '65. William was retired Chief of DEA's Office of Congressional and Public Affairs, Deputy Director of DARE America, and former Chairman of the Board of Directors of the DEA Educational Foundation. He spent over 40 years in the field of drug enforcement and drug abuse prevention. He was an avid golfer and won many trophies and plaques. He loved listening to country music and baking apple pies. He was an IU Alumni and followed his Hoosiers faithfully. In addition to his parents William was predeceased by his beloved son, Christopher Scott in 1986. Left to cherish his memory are his wife of 59 years, Patricia of Naples, Fla.; his daughter, Juliet of Minneapolis, Minn. Sisters, Patricia Nichols and her husband, Ben Junk of Arizona, Nancy Wilson of So Glens Falls, N.Y.; his brother, Mark Alden and his wife, Diane of New Hampshire; sister-in-law, Margaret Sheehan of Queensbury, N.Y.; as well as numerous nieces and nephews. A funeral mass will be held on Friday, May 30, 2025 at 11:30 a.m. with reception in narthex starting at 11 a.m. at St Agnes Church located at 7775 Vanderbilt Beach Rd, Naples, FL 34120. Memorial Donations in William's name can be made to DEA Educational Foundation 2020 Pennsylvania Ave. NW #165, Washington, DC 20006 or online. To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store. DEAEF Programs and HighlightsSince the start of 2025, the DEAEF staff have been busy connecting with youth in dozens of cities nationwide with the goal of reaching nearly 100 cities. While there has been a recent decrease in drug overdose deaths and fentanyl poisoning, according to the CDC overdoses remain the leading cause of death for Americans aged 18-44. This trend highlights the need for ongoing critical drug awareness and education programs, and positive and healthy outlets for our youth. Our board members, staff, coaches, instructors and community partners continue our collaborative efforts to educate our youth on the risks associated with substance abuse, ultimately striving to save lives and foster healthy lifestyles. In 2025, our DEAEF program team continues to ask, “What can I do to make a difference?” In 2025, the DEAEF Youth Dance Program (YDP) will reach thousands of students in 60 cities nationwide and our waitlist continues to grow. We are thankful to our talented and dedicated dance companies and instructors and we look forward to continuing our mission of “Empowering Youth, One Step at a Time,” incorporating dance with drug prevention education.
Randolph, MA: In January, the Mosaic Dance Company held a Youth Dance Program (YDP) kick-off assembly at Donovan Elementary in Randolph, MA. Dance Instructor Katie Suyematsu, former company director and longtime instructor Henry Kasdon and several dancers from Mosaic Dance Company led a fabulous performance inspiring creativity, healthy lifestyles and a sense of belonging for the youth. At the conclusion of the assembly, interested students from Donovan Elementary signed up for weekly dance classes with Instructor Katie. Her personal journey with dance reflects the power of the art form to create safe spaces and opportunities for growth.
Manchester, NH. Congratulations to our YDP students at Green Acres School who performed their final showcase in January. Since the 2019-2020, the DEAEF has partnered with Granite State Dance Center to bring dance and positive life lessons to students in Manchester, NH. Through both Operation Engage and our National Programs, this collaboration extends beyond teaching dance—it's about fostering resilience, promoting healthy choices, and building community in an area significantly affected by substance abuse. Granite State Dance Center, led by Director Cathy Richard has become a cornerstone of DEAEF’s outreach in Manchester. Granite State Dance Center also runs DEAEF-funded Spring Break programs and summer camps. The summer camps are open to students from participating schools and the Granite State Dance Center community. These camps not only provide dance instruction but emphasizes healthy lifestyle choices, offering kids a constructive way to spend their time when school is out.
Youth Dance Program Instructor SpotlightAtiya Joe, founder of Atiya Dance Academy is a dynamic driven 21-year-old Diné woman, renowned for her accomplishments as a professional dancer, choreographer, activist, and the founder of the ATIYA Dance Academy. A self-made entrepreneur, Atiya has worked with notable Indigenous artist Lakota, Stella Standingbear and Houston-based Talameshia, curating performances and choreography that highlight Indigenous artistry and culture. Raised by her grandmother in Kirtland, NM, Atiya's journey is a testament to her resilience. Despite witnessing her mother’s struggles with opioid addiction, she chose a path of education and personal growth, remaining drug-free while becoming the first entrepreneur in her family. Atiya opened the doors of her studio in Farmington, NM in July, 2024. ATIYA Dance Academy’s mission is clear: To empower prolific creatives through hip-hop culture and dance. Atiya is passionate about teaching hip-hop dance as a tool for building positive self-image and fostering a drug-free lifestyle. Atiya has expanded her outreach to several Indigenous communities, partnering with the DEAEF YDP and DEA’s Operation Engage to inspire Indigenous youth to break generational cycles of substance abuse. The support from these programs has been transformative, with many young people choosing healthier, drug-free lives. Atiya considers her work with the DEAEF YDP and DEA’s Operation Engage to be the most meaningful and rewarding aspect of her career.
DEAEF Youth Baseball Program
Moreno Valley, CA. Since 2020, the DEAEF Youth Baseball Program (YBP) at Sunnymead Middle School has become the school’s most sought-after after-school activity. Rick Zeitlin, DEAEF’s YBP Regional Director was the driving force behind the program’s inception. Rick connected with Assistant Vice Principal Ken Carson who immediately recognized the potential for Sunnymead Middle School to be a perfect fit. From there, math teacher and baseball enthusiast Chris Scarff, newly returned from teaching in China, and Alexander Flores, a school janitor with a love for the game, stepped up to coach under Zeitlin’s direction. Together, they’ve led the program for all 10 seasons—offering students in grades 6 through 8 a chance to develop their skills on and off the field. Sunnymead Middle School's YBP operates in the fall and spring seasons with a full roster of 23 students. Students must meet certain GPA and attendance criteria, emphasizing the program’s commitment to fostering discipline and responsibility. The program provides students with gloves, hats, T-shirts, baseballs and occasionally, baseball bags. Additionally, the coaches and DEAEF staff create memorable experiences including pizza parties and tickets to independent professional baseball games. Youth Martial Arts ProgramSpokane, WA. Since 2019, the DEAEF Youth Martial Arts Program (YMAP) continued to grow, and last year the program reached 15 cities not including our reach through Big Brothers Big Sisters of America. By the end of 2025, the program is projected to reach 19 cities including new schools and youth sites.
“I enjoyed the martial arts program because it taught me how to defend myself and it was really fun to do with friends. It also taught me to never do drugs and to always stay safe. I have never done martial arts before and I felt this was a great way to get in exercise and to never give up when something is difficult or new.” Kamauri Breland, 4th grade student at Shiloh Hills Elementary Medford, MA. The DEAEF YMAP partnered with Mau Mau Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Academy and expanded its youth outreach through a partnership with Mau Mau Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Academy. Owned and led by world-renowned Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu champion Robson Rodrigues, known as “Mau Mau,” the academy brought a powerful blend of skill and mentorship to the DEAEF YMAP, fostering a healthy, positive environment for local youth to learn self-discipline, resilience and teamwork. A special thanks to Rockland Recovery Treatment Center! All three DEAEF Martial Arts programs were overseen by Bobby McCarron, an instructor and Jiu Jitsu Black Belt with the Dojo, who emphasized, “we are empowering kids through the sport of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. We are trying to keep kids in sports and out of courts!” Generously sponsored by Rockland Recovery Treatment Center which has been a steadfast supporter of the DEAEF’s mission, Rockland’s sponsorship has been vital to expanding these programs that continue to benefit and uplift the community.
DEAEF Community Outreach Highlights
Since 2021, the DEAEF has partnered with Big Brothers Big Sisters of America (BBBS) to deliver opioid and substance abuse prevention programs tailored for mentors, staff, parents/caregivers, and youth across the nation. This collaboration has evolved over the years, and in 2025, it is breaking new ground with the launch of innovative microtraining offerings. Each session is moderated by DEAEF personnel who ensure an interactive and engaging experience. DEA personnel, former agents, and trusted partners each bring a wealth of expertise and personal stories that foster connections and understanding. The DEAEF BBBS partnership has consistently focused on meeting the unique needs of its diverse audiences. From staff to mentors (Bigs), youth (Littles), and parents/guardians, each training is thoughtfully customized.
CADCA FORUM 2025National Harbor, MD. CADCA’s 35th Annual National Leadership Forum was held February 3-6, 2025, at the Gaylord Hotel, National Harbor, MD with over 4,000 attendees from across the globe. The theme “Next Level Coalitions: Positive Community Outcomes” featured numerous workshops with prevention professionals from across the country, plenary sessions, networking, Capitol Hill Day, SAMHSA’s 21st Annual Prevention Day, and the exciting Exhibit Hall! DEAEF Executive Office Consultant Lois Ludwikowski attended the conference on behalf of the Foundation. DEAEF board member and CADCA Public Policy Consultant, Sue Thau presented during the four-day conference with sessions including “Closing the Hemp Loophole – Everything You Need to Know about Semi-Synthetic Cannabinoids,” and “The ABCs of Effective Advocacy.” Another exciting session during the week was “Building Capacity and Sustainability through DEA’s Operation Engage: (Low-Rider Bike Panel). Community partners and students build lowrider bicycles while educating the youth about the dangers of substance abuse, crime, and violence. On the last day, Acting DEA Administrator Derek Maltz was interviewed by President and CEO of CADCA Gen. Barrye L. Price during a DEA power session. The conference then culminated with a forum luncheon and National Leadership Awards ceremony.
Partnership with DEA Operation EngagePrince George’s County, MD. This spring, students at Mary McLeod Bethune Day Academy in Prince George’s County learned more than just movement, they’re gained self-esteem, discipline, and teamwork skills through the art of Capoeira. Thanks to a partnership between the DEAEF and DEA Washington Division’s Operation Engage, Capoeira instructor Roberto Tapia is leading a 20-week residency for kindergarten through third-graders. Roberto brings deep knowledge and passion to the program, introducing students to this dynamic Afro-Brazilian martial art that blends combat, music and acrobatics. Roberto introduced the young students to the rhythms, movements, and traditions of Capoeira. In addition to building physical skills, the classes are designed to foster life skills such as self-esteem, discipline and teamwork. Capoeira is a cultural practice deeply rooted in the resistance and resilience of enslaved Africans in Brazil. Today, it remains a powerful tool for connection and expression, particularly for young learners who may be navigating challenges in their own lives. Through movement, music, and community, these students are learning to channel their energy in positive ways.
Tyrone K. Guyse, Acting Assistant Special Agent in Charge for the DEA Washington Field Division regularly visits the class. “DEA recognizes the youth of today are the future of our nation tomorrow, so we will continue to protect them from the dangers of illicit drug use.”
Youth Bicycle ProgramDeerfield Beach, FL. In January, 2025, the DEAEF was thrilled to partner with the DEA Miami Field Division’s (MFD) Operation Engage in supporting a second dynamic youth bike program led by Deerfield Beach Community Cares. The program taught biking skills and knowledge in the mechanics of operating bikes. The program was combined with drug prevention and health education. Due to the popularity of the program, the DEA MFD Operation Engage added an extension program this spring. New Orleans, LA. In January, 2025, building on the momentum of our previous programs, the DEAEF and DEA Operation Engage New Orleans Field Division returned to LOOP NOLA. Students from the Mt. Airy Magnet School and William Hart Elementary School each participated in a one day Youth Fishing Program (YFP) for a hands-on experience in conservation, outdoor recreation, and community engagement. Students had the opportunity to learn casting techniques, fish off the shoreline and participate in a guided nature hike entitled “Wet in the Wetlands.” The hike highlighted the importance of respecting the natural environment and gave students a deeper appreciation for Louisiana’s diverse ecosystems. Kalamazoo and Coldwater, MI. In May, in collaboration with the DEA Detroit Field Division's Operation Engage, two YFP's continued for a third year, with the Milwood Elementary in Kalamazoo and the Athens Elementary School in Coldwater, MI. These collaborative efforts highlight how community organizations and law enforcement can work together to create meaningful experiences for local youth. By blending outdoor adventures with drug prevention education, our partnerships are fostering an environment that inspires students to protect the natural world around them and to stay on a healthy drug free path. Special thanks to DEA Detroit Group Supervisor Michael Tighe, Community Outreach Specialist Brian O'Keefe, teacher James Warner, Milwood Elementary, Paul Frazier of the Fishin Project and Sgt. Frank Rugg of the Nottawaseppi Huron Band of the Potawatomi for their efforts in assisting the students and coordinating the programs. DEAEF 2025 Annual Board MeetingIn April, the DEAEF kicked off a week-long event with a dinner at Il Moderno hosted by our board member and friends at LexisNexis Risk Solutions. The DEAEF also held our annual board meeting at the El Caballero Country Club in collaboration with the LPGA JM Eagle LA Championship presented by Plastpro in Los Angeles from April 17-20th. Thank you to the board members who joined us in-person and virtually! We are grateful to Sean Fearns, Chief of DEA Community Outreach, who delivered an update on DEA and Community Outreach programs. Thanks to board member Kevin Sabet, for his informative presentation on policy updates. Big shout outs to the amazing Outlyr team, David Tucker, Vice President, Megan Herrera, Director, and Katie Williams, Sponsor Services Coordinator. We cannot thank Deterra enough for their continued support and sponsorship, as well as the DEA Los Angeles Field Division for their support and continued partnership. DEAEF board members also attended the Women’s Leadership Luncheon presented by J.P. Morgan where Shirley Wang, CEO of Tournament Presenting Sponsor Plastpro, Inc., gave opening remarks and introduced NBC LA Investigative Reporter & Anchor, Lolita Lopez, President & CEO of the LA Sports & Entertainment Commission, Kathryn Schloessman, Assistant Director of NIL for UCLA Athletics, Maddie Walsh, five-time Olympic gold medalist, Nastia Liukin, and LPGA Professional, Sophia Popov. The inspirational conversation focused on how industry female leaders are leveraging their personal brands to make a vital impact and drive innovation in sports and entertainment.
Representing the DEAEF team, DEA Los Angeles Field Division (LAFD) members and our partners then participated in the ProAm Tournament with LPGA professionals. The DEAEF, DEA LAFD, and Deterra hosted an exhibition tent in the Expo Village throughout the tournament where informational packages on drug misuse were handed out along with information on the DEAEF’s drug education afterschool programs. We are grateful to LPGA professional Nasa Hataoka for stopping by our table and supporting our mission. The DEAEF and Deterra also returned as sponsors to the Heroes Outpost, a hospitality tent dedicated to military personnel and first responders. Thank you JM Eagle LA Championship presented by Plastpro, and thank you Deterra® Drug Deactivation. In the NewsWASHINGTON – DEA and nearly 4,500 law enforcement agencies joined forces last month to dispose of more than 620,000 pounds of unneeded and expired medications in an effort to prevent drug misuse and abuse. The spring collection event marked DEA’s 28th National Prescription Drug Take Back Day. IN MEMORIAM:Our hearts are heavy on the recent passing of our beloved board members, Peter B. Bensinger, Christopher E. Egan, Jr. and John R. Bartels, Jr.
Peter B. Bensinger, 88, former DEA Administrator and DEAEF board member, February 11, 2025Peter B. Bensinger, a distinguished public servant and former Administrator of the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), passed away peacefully, surrounded by family on February 11, 2025 at the age of 88. He leaves behind a legacy of dedication to public service. Born in 1936, Peter grew up in Chicago, attending the Chicago Latin School and then Phillips Exeter Academy, where he ran track. He attended Yale University, where he excelled in the broad jump, becoming the Ivy League Champion in 1956. After graduation, he worked for the family business, Brunswick Corporation, including serving as General Sales Manager for Europe. In the late 1960s, he left the business to pursue his true calling: public service. In January 1976, Peter was appointed Administrator of DEA by President Ford and confirmed by the U.S. Senate. He served under both Republican and Democrat administrations, leading DEA under Presidents Ford, Carter, and Reagan. His leadership was marked by significant efforts to combat international drug trafficking and expand drug education programs to inform the public about the dangers of illegal drugs. During his tenure, heroin overdose deaths decreased by over 50%, and there was a significant reduction in the overall number of Americans using illegal drugs. In addition, DEA undercover agents were able to infiltrate the infamous operation of Nicky Barnes - the powerful heroin kingpin, known as "Mr. Untouchable" - and secure his arrest. Peter also served as the U.S. delegate to Interpol. Among other accomplishments, he was instrumental in the passage and implementation of the Asset Forfeiture Law and the formulation of the Department of Transportation's federal regulations for safety sensitive positions. In recognition of his close collaboration with other agencies, the U.S. Coast Guard selected Bensinger for its Distinguished Service Award, the highest honor that the Coast Guard can bestow upon a civilian. Peter was also a founding board member of the DEAEF, which among other initiatives, provides community-based youth programming and activities as an alternative to gangs and drugs, as well as educational outreach about the dangers of narcotics and illicit drugs. Peter was the happiest spending time with his family and at Wrigley Field cheering for his beloved Chicago Cubs. He is survived by his wife Dr. Judith S. Bensinger, his brother Roger G. Bensinger (Robin Groth Bensinger), his children Peter B. Bensinger, Jr. (Heidi Wagman), Jennifer B. Parkins (Brad Parkins, deceased), Elizabeth Bensinger, and Brette Bensinger, and his grandchildren Samantha Bensinger, Allison Bensinger, Katie Parkins, Jack Parkins, and Chloe Carlson. Donations can be made in Peter’s name to the DEA Educational Foundation.
John R. Bartels Jr., Former DEA Administrator and DEAEF board member March 27, 2025John R. Bartels, Jr. died peacefully on March 27, 2025, with his wife and best friend Jisun Bartels by his side. He was 90 years old. John was born on November 27, 1934, to John R. Bartels, a U.S. District Judge for the Eastern District of New York, and Anne Willson Bartels. He graduated from Harvard University in 1956, where he earned a degree in history magna cum laude. In 1957 he attended the University of Munich as a Fulbright Scholar and Konrad Adenauer Scholar, before returning to the U.S. to earn an LL.B. at Harvard Law School in 1960. After several years in private practice, John spent the next decade-plus in public service. He served from 1964 to 1968 as an Assistant U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of New York under Robert Morgenthau. In 1968 he became the first Chief of the New Jersey Strike Force, where he led, in the words of TIME magazine at the time, “the most significant attack on organized crime in the state’s history.” In 1972 he was named Deputy Assistant Attorney General for the U.S. Department of Justice, Criminal Division. And from 1973 to 1975, John served as the first Administrator of the Drug Enforcement Administration, during which time he led the efforts to establish the El Paso Intelligence Center, DEA’s special agent training program, DEA’s Office of Intelligence, and the Unified Intelligence Division field unit, among other achievements. After leaving government, John co-founded the law firm of Bartels & Feureisen LLP in Bedford Hills, New York, where he practiced for many years and remained of counsel until his death. John loved the law and was a tireless and effective trial and appellate advocate on behalf of his clients. He was a Fellow of the American College of Trial Lawyers. He also taught law as an Adjunct Professor at Rutgers University School of Law from 1969 to 1971 and as an Instructor in Trial Advocacy at Pace University Law School from 1978 to 1986. John received numerous awards over his career, including the Outstanding Service Award, U.S. Department of Justice (1970), the Commissioner’s Award from the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (1974), and the Pace Law School Leadership Award (1990). John had an engaging personality and a quick wit. He was a voracious reader and a student of history. He relished the daily challenge of The New York Times crossword puzzle. And he was a passionate sports fan, especially of the Boston Red Sox, the New York Giants, and FC Bayern Munich. Later in life he became an animal lover who received endless pleasure from being around his various dogs and cats. John leaves behind his wife of 22 years Jisun Lee Bartels; his five children Gilpin (Gip), Kristin, Anne, Elizabeth (Biz), and Jackson; and nine grandchildren. The Bartels family would like to express a sincere debt of gratitude to the doctors, nurses, and staff of Yale New Haven Hospital. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals. Christopher E. Egan, Jr., 84, former DEA Special Agent and DEAEF board member, January 20, 2025Christopher (Chris) was born in Cambridge, MA, to the late Dr. Christopher E. Egan, Sr. and Mary L. (Collins) Egan. He was a graduate and enthusiastic alumnus of The Belmont Hill School, and went on to attend College of the Holy Cross and Babson College. He proudly served in the Army National Guard, and enjoyed an early career in pharmaceutical sales before finding his true calling as a narcotics agent for the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration. Chris bravely and fiercely fought the war on drugs for 21 years, achieving the rank of Senior Special Agent. Upon retirement, he served in various leadership roles for the DEAEF, and maintained a lifelong friendship with his brethren agents and other members of law enforcement. Chris had many talents and passions. He was proud of his Irish roots, and loved a good pun. He was a voracious reader, and had an appreciation for blues, folk, Irish and country music. Chris had an uncanny ability to remember the lyrics to every song and a talent for singing them on key. He loved dogs, especially his faithful and devoted chocolate lab, Salty. Chris was a gifted and witty storyteller with a wicked sense of humor, who naturally captivated an audience. He was a zealous fan of BU hockey and the Boston Red Sox, appreciated a good hot dog with mustard, and often shared stories of working concessions at Fenway Park as a teen. If desired, in lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Chris’s name to the DEA Educational Foundation. For online condolences, please visit Greely Funeral Home. A Huge Thank You!The DEAEF would like to thank our donors, coaches, staff and community partners for their dedication and support throughout the year. Thank you for helping us instill hope and give support to those in need. It is your steadfast commitment that makes a meaningful difference in so many communities across the nation and has enabled us to grow and to reach thousands of young students and families. We sincerely appreciate your support! ABOUT THE DEA EDUCATIONAL FOUNDATIONThe DEA Educational Foundation is a 501(c)3 non-profit educational organization established in 2001, whose goal is to educate the public on the many costs and consequences of illegal drugs in our society. Forward this newsletter to a friend. Inquiries, comments, and/or questions? Contact Colleen Whelan, Special Projects Coordinator, DEAEF The DEA Educational Foundation is not part of the US Department of Justice (DOJ) or Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA). Neither DOJ nor the DEA approves, endorses, or authorizes the Foundation, its materials or its fundraising efforts. |