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June 2026—Vol. 17
Honoring 25 Years of Impact!
Reflecting on Our Legacy and Celebrating Our Future
Welcome to the DEA Educational Foundation’s (DEAEF) Spring newsletter! 2026 proudly marks a DEAEF milestone—25 years of impact! For a quarter century, our foundation has stood at the intersection of education, prevention and hope, guided by one enduring belief—knowledge saves lives. When young people are supported and empowered, they can build brighter and healthier futures. This anniversary year is not a single moment, but a year-long reflection. It is a time to honor where we began, celebrate how far we have come, and recommit to our work ahead.
Throughout 2026, we will continue to highlight our partnerships, programs, and those who have shaped our journey, while continuing to serve communities across the country with the same passion and purpose that inspired our founding. The first quarter of 2026 has been filled with meaningful momentum, including youth after-school programs taught by impactful mentors, drug prevention conferences, and community education events that are all making a difference!
DEA Educational Foundation 2026 Annual Board Meeting
Tarzana, CA: The DEA Educational Foundation held its annual Spring board meeting on April 14 at the El Caballero Country Club in Tarzana, CA. Similar to the past several years, this event was held in conjunction with the 2026 JM Eagle LA Championship presented by Plastpro, and sponsored by our board member, Walter Wang, and his wife, Shirley Wang. A special thanks to board member, Jason Sundby, and Deterra® Drug Deactivation System who joined the DEAEF as a co-sponsor, as well as to board member, Woody Talcove, and the LexisNexis Risk Solutions friends for hosting a welcoming dinner to kick-off the festivities and support throughout the week.
We were elated to have Mr. Dan Salter, DEA Deputy Administrator, join us at the meeting along with several board members, DEA headquarters and DEA LA Field Division personnel. Following the meeting, everyone headed to the Women’s Leadership Luncheon presented by J.P. Morgan to enjoy another significant discussion on leadership in a rapidly evolving world, embracing change, redefining success, and guiding the next generation in sports and beyond. The panelists included two-time Olympian and founder of The Gold Mind HQ, Tasha Danvers; Julie Uhrman, Co-Founder of Angel City Football Club and U.S.Marine Corps and Air Force veteran; creative producer and doctoral candidate, iAsia Brown; and LPGA Player Lizette Salas.
In the early evening, all participants returned to the El Caballero Country Club for the 25th Anniversary pre-reception celebration and toast. President and CEO Jill Roberts gave the first inspiring remarks, followed by Chair Michele Leonhart, DEA Chief of Community Outreach Sean Fearns, board member Sue Thau, and DEAEF Treasurer Dan Staffieri. The pre-reception transitioned into the Pairing Reception, which featured live entertainment, food stations from top LA metro area restaurants, and the ever-popular raffle for the athletes.
The 2026 JM Eagle LA Championship presented by Plastpro Pro-Am took place the following day where the DEAEF had two teams participate in this special opportunity to golf alongside LPGA professionals. The week-long event continued through the weekend as the DEAEF, along with our DEA LA partners and long-time supporter Deterra® Drug Deactivation System, participated in the Expo Village during the tournament. Our joint tent displayed key drug prevention materials: safe drug disposal pouches provided by Deterra and a One Pill Can Kill wrapped Corvette provided by DEA Los Angeles. We were also thrilled to sponsor the Heroes Outpost for the fifth consecutive year, alongside Deterra and returning partner, LexisNexis Risk Solutions. Special thanks to LPGA player Melanie Green for stopping by our tent to show support!
Many of our youth partners attended the Junior Golf Day on Saturday to learn the game of golf from pros, participate in a scavenger hunt for a chance to win fun prizes, and visit many golf activation vendors. Additionally, the first 1,000 juniors received a free Junior Day t-shirt and meal provided by The Habit.
We are honored by the tremendous support from our board members, DEA headquarters, and the DEA LA field office. We cannot express enough gratitude to the exceptional Outlyr team. Lastly, thank you JM Eagle LA Championship presented by Plastpro, and thank you Deterra® Drug Deactivation System and LexisNexis Risk Solutions for your generous partnership year after year! The DEAEF was proud to reach over 20,000 visitors at the event with drug prevention materials!
DEAEF Board Members and Staff Attend the 2026 DEA Memorial
Arlington, VA: Several DEAEF board members and staff attended the 2026 DEA Memorial Service to honor and commemorate the heroes of DEA. The events consisted of a wreath laying ceremony and traditional memorial service where all fallen hero names were read by past DEA Administrators. The board was once again honored to join DEA at this special event.
DEA Educational Foundation National Programs
DEAEF programs continue to grow throughout the country reaching over 100 cities nationally by the end of 2025.
Youth Dance Program (YDP) Continues to Inspire Students One Step at a Time
As we reflect on our growth over the past 25 years, we remember when we launched our first youth program in 2012, the DEAEF Youth Dance Program (YDP). We have come a long way from our very first YDP assembly and program at Payne Elementary in Washington D.C. and our dance program now reaches schools all across the United States. The DEAEF YDP is our longest running after-school youth program, and due to its enormous success we’ve expanded our youth programming with activities such as art, baseball, martial arts, soccer, basketball, lacrosse and more. Adding new programs and activities allows us to reach kids with different interests but with the same desire to learn about healthy living and pursuing futures that are drug-free.
More Than a Dance Class
Manchester, NH: In February, Manchester, NH welcomed another outstanding tap workshop hosted by the DEAEF in collaboration with Granite State Dance Center and DEA New England’s Operation Engage. The event brought together students for an engaging experience that blended dance with meaningful community outreach. A special thank you goes to DEA Community Outreach Specialist Brian O’Keefe for sharing valuable insights with participants. Granite State Dance Center, under the leadership of owner and director Cathy Richard, has become a vital partner in DEAEF’s efforts in Manchester. DEAEF Regional Director Cristine Dhimos commends Ms. Richard’s unwavering commitment:
“She’s phenomenal. Cathy consistently goes above and beyond for the DEAEF, bringing fresh ideas and a heartfelt dedication to her community. Her instructors are wonderful, and she cares deeply about Manchester, where there is a serious drug problem.”
The dance center’s impact extends well beyond dance instruction. Ms. Richard and her team use their platform to address critical issues such as peer pressure, drug prevention, and making healthy life choices. By fostering a supportive and open environment, the program empowers students to engage in honest conversations and build resilience both on and off the dance floor.
Youth Dance Instructor Spotlight: Felicia McMillion
For 30 years, Felicion McMillon has been a dedicated dance educator who has taught and mentored dancers across the Chattanooga, TN area. Many of Felicia's students have gone on to perform on Broadway, appear in movies and in hit television shows. Since 2021, she has partnered with the DEAEF in Chattanooga using dance and the arts to connect with young students and help promote healthy choices in a meaningful way. She believes the arts can create a powerful space where kids feel heard, supported, and inspired.
“As a teacher, I see every day how important it is for students to feel confident, supported, and informed. Programs like DEAEF give young people the knowledge and encouragement they need to make healthy choices and believe in their own potential. There are not as many arts education programs accessible to elementary students as there are sports programs, and DEAEF helps bridge that opportunity gap.”
Youth Baseball Program
As we celebrate 25 years of impact, let’s talk about our Youth Baseball Program (YBP) which was established in 2019, and piloted in 5 cities and from where we continued to grow. In 2025, we reached 24 cities and over 1,350 students and in 2026, we anticipate reaching 27 plus cities and nearly 1,500 students!
Today we highlight two of our outstanding Youth Baseball Programs where youth in very different outdoor settings enjoy America’s pastime. In El Paso, Texas, youth from Lancaster Elementary continue to work with their dynamic instructor, Coach Joseph, in a wide outdoor field. And, at PS130 in New York City, coaches engage youth in baseball skills and teamwork, even in a small city space. Both programs, in spite of their geographical differences, bring youth smiles and a positive outlet! Thank you to the CTBC Anti-Drug Educational Foundation for supporting the Lancaster program and to CTBC Bank USA for supporting the PS130 program!
Youth Martial Arts Program
Mau Mau Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Academy
Stoneham, MA: Due to the generous funding from Rockland Recovery, the DEAEF has been able to partner up once again with Mau Mau Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Academy and instructors Mau Mau Robson and Bobby McCarron! We have been so fortunate to hold our second program in February, at Stoneham Central Middle School supported by Principal Tom Sallee. The program supported twenty-five young 5th and 6th graders who enjoyed every class. In our first year, the DEAEF conducted two programs. The first was held at the Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Academy, followed by a twenty week program at Stoneham Central Middle school. Both programs were such a great success with the expertise of the instructors! We are grateful to continue our partnership with the Mau Mau Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Academy.
Since 2021, the DEAEF has partnered with Big Brothers Big Sisters (BBBS) to provide online Opioid Awareness training for their staff, parents/caregivers, mentors, and youth. The DEAEF oversees the training process by proposing relevant topics, vetting and securing expert speakers, developing educational content and materials, coordinating logistics, and ensuring the effective and timely delivery of each session. Annually, the DEAEF hosts approximately 10–12 training sessions, many of which are youth programs in out-of-school hours. By the conclusion of the 2025–2026 program year, the Foundation conducted a total of 47 training sessions which included nine parent/caregiver sessions, 10 mentor sessions, 13 youth sessions, and 15 staff sessions. We are humbled by the opportunity to work with BBBS and look forward to many more opportunities to collaborate.
CADCA 36th Annual National Leadership Forum
In February, the DEAEF proudly participated in CADCA’s 36th Annual National Leadership Forum. President and CEO Jill Roberts spoke with participants about DEAEF’s youth education programs and the organization’s nationwide partnership with the DEA through Operation Engage. The forum served as a premier training event for community leaders, coalition members, and advocates dedicated to the prevention field. CADCA equips coalitions with the tools, knowledge, and support necessary to drive positive change within their communities. With more than 4,000 attendees from across the globe and over 100 workshops, the event offered plenary sessions featuring renowned speakers, as well as numerous opportunities for professional development. Highlights of the forum included the ever-popular SAMHSA Prevention Day and Capitol Hill Day, both of which were memorable experiences for participants. In addition, President and CEO Jill Roberts had the opportunity to collaborate with the DEA’s Community Outreach Specialists in the partner exhibit hall, further strengthening partnerships that support prevention education and community engagement.
Drug Free America National Prevention Summit
The DEAEF participated in the 13th Annual National Prevention Summit which took place February 17–18, 2026, in St. Petersburg, FL. Together, the DEAEF joined the Drug Free America Foundation in their strategies in action, collaborations, and national leadership in prevention and recovery. DEAEF Executive Office Consultant Lois Ludwikowski attended the National Prevention Summit in St. Petersburg, FL., along with DEAEF Ex-Officio board member Kevin Sabet as the first speaker. Lois also visited with our partner in prevention, Deterra® Drug Deactivation System. This two-day summit brought together prevention professionals, educators, healthcare providers, policymakers, advocates, researchers, and community leaders from across the country.
Partnership In Action
Seattle, WA. The DEA Seattle Division’s Operation Engage, in partnership with the DEAEF, hosted a three-day dance program for the students at Talbot Hill Elementary School in March. Eilleen Mallary, Executive Director and dance instructor for Culture Shock Chicago, led a special physical education class for first graders, and an additional afterschool session for fourth and fifth graders. Participants learned simple dance movements, shared self-expression, built confidence, and made new connections with their peers. Eilleen also provided a safe space for mentorship while incorporating the importance of staying healthy and living drug-free. Each first grader received a DEAEF YDP sticker, and afterschool participants received a DEAEF YDP t-shirt along with a Certificate of Accomplishment. The DEAEF appreciates our continued partnership with the Talbot Hill Elementary School and we look forward to building on this collaboration to further support and encourage students to live healthy lifestyles.
Youth Martial Arts Program
Glendale, AZ: After a successful end-of-school-year martial arts program in the spring of 2025 through the DEA Phoenix Division’s Operation Engage initiative, the Glendale Success Academy (GSA) expanded their program into a full school-year offering. The DEAEF’s Youth Martial Arts Program returned in the fall of 2025 to continue serving students throughout the academic year. GSA, part of the Glendale Elementary School District in Arizona, serves students in grades 3 through 5 and middle school grades 6 through 8. The school focuses on helping students develop self-regulation, confidence and trust. Martial arts training has proven to be a natural fit because it reinforces discipline, respect, and positive decision-making. Under the direction of instructor Dylan Woolley of UNeed Martial Arts, students participate in weekly classes. With fewer than 10 students in each class, the program allows instructors to give students individualized attention and mentorship. Two separate sessions serve both elementary and middle school students.
Spokane, WA: For the fifth year in a row, the DEAEF is proud to continue its partnership with the Spokane Police Activities League (PAL) through DEA Seattle Field Division’s Operation Engage strengthening relationships between law enforcement, youth and families across Spokane, WA. Spokane PAL is a 13-year-old program serving youth ages 7–16, with a five-week summer program that brings law enforcement and young people together in local parks for structured, safe, and enriching activities. Daily activities range from soccer, basketball, flag football, rugby, and park games to STEM projects, reading, and team-based challenges. Throughout the program, officers intentionally weave in PAL’s core values: respect, honesty, leadership, sportsmanship, and integrity, with a growing emphasis on volunteerism and civic pride.
Youth Soccer Program
Boys and Girls Club of Greater Washington
Suitland, MD: In early March, the DEAEF and the DEA Washington Division's Operation Engage launched a three-day soccer workshop for youth from the Boys and Girls Club of Greater Washington at Drew Freeman Middle School in Suitland, MD. Participants learned advanced skills and training techniques directly from elite athlete, Aurelio Figari. Following the three-day workshop, students continued with a five-week series of weekly soccer practices led by two local coaches from the Maryland State Youth Soccer Association: Daren Olsen and Jimmy Shiflett. Soccer practice and mentorship reinforce the Foundation’s mission to promote a healthy, drug-free lifestyle by instilling teamwork, discipline, and perseverance in every participant. We are grateful for our outstanding coaches and for the continued partnership with the Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Washington.
Youth Basketball Program
District Heights, MD: Exciting news from the DEA Washington Division's Basketball program in Maryland! In February, the DEAEF partnered with Jacob’s Ladder, the Maryland Department of Juvenile Services, the U. S. Department of Justice, Prince George’s County Office of Community Relations, and the Town of District Heights to empower youth through sports. The program consisted of teaching leadership skills and promoting a fentanyl free America to build a stronger community both on and off the court.
Youth Fishing Program
New Orleans, LA: In February, the DEAEF was honored to partner with DEA’s Operation Engage New Orleans and the Louisiana Outdoor Outreach Program (LOOP NOLA) once again to provide two days of fishing and outdoor hiking excursions for 6th and 8th grade students from Harry S. Truman Elementary school. In total, approximately 60 students participated in a program of transformative outdoor experiences designed to inspire healthy choices, and support a lifelong commitment to living drug-free. The program included lunch, with practicing creative problem solving by working together to accomplish group goals, an introduction to fishing/casting, and exploring and learning about the environment while playing nature based games. Many thanks to our partner LOOP NOLA, DEA Special Agent in Charge Steve L. Hofer, Community Outreach Specialist Leslie Faulkner, and Special Agents and Diversion investigators from the New Orleans Field Division. DEAEF Director of Special Events and Grants Management Amy Danos also engaged the students to solve challenges, learn about the importance of staying drug free and to gain confidence in themselves.
BabyScientist Program
New Orleans, LA: A BabyScientist Program, led by Dr. Kristy McDowell, brought hands-on STEM learning to Isaac G. Joseph Elementary, William Hart Elementary, and Garyville Magnet Math and Science Charter School in New Orleans. Students participated in two 1.5-hour sessions at each location, engaging in immersive science activities designed to spark curiosity and critical thinking. Prior to the events, Dr. McDowell met virtually with science teachers to prepare them for the experience. Despite weather disruptions that required quick adjustments to the schedule, the team demonstrated flexibility and strong collaboration to ensure every session was completed successfully. Students received lab coats and science kits, and Community Outreach Specialist Dr. Faulkner attended each program to deliver drug and alcohol prevention messaging and provide additional support throughout the hands-on activities.
In The News
DEA has launched “Fentanyl Free America,” a national enforcement and public awareness campaign. Spreading awareness through education is an integral part of DEA’s core mission.
“Fentanyl claims American lives every single day, often without warning. DEA is proud to support the vital efforts of organizations dedicated to raising life-saving awareness. DEA has an unwavering commitment to protect the United States from synthetic opioids by disrupting the fentanyl supply chain, reducing its availability, and saving American lives. We are making real progress in the fight against fentanyl, but we cannot and will not let up. The cartels are adapting, but so are we. DEA is evolving faster and striking harder to eliminate the threat using enforcement, intelligence, and public awareness. Fentanyl Free America is not a slogan, it’s a mission. Every life saved makes us a stronger, more resilient nation.”
Terrance Cole, DEA Administrator
For ready-to-use downloadable materials that will help every agency, school, community, and partners spread the message, learn more on the DEA website.
Honoring Our Founder
As we continue to celebrate 25 Years of Impact, we honor Bill Alden at the year anniversary of his passing. It is with deep gratitude and remembrance of William F. Alden, Founder of the DEAEF as we celebrate our 25th year. Bill was more than our Founder, he was a mentor, a trusted leader and a steadfast advocate for youth and community drug prevention. With more than 40 years devoted to drug enforcement and prevention, including service as the Chief of DEA’s Office of Congressional and Public Affairs, Deputy Director of DARE America, and Chairman of the DEAEF Board, Bill brought integrity, experience and heart to our mission. Bill’s passing in 2025 marked a profound loss, but his influence endures. His unwavering belief in education, compassion, and collaboration continues to shape the DEAEF’s values and direction. Bill's legacy lives on in every program launched, every partnership formed, and every young life touched by the work he helped build.
Leadership for the Next Chapter
Today, the DEAEF is led by Jill L. Roberts, President and CEO, whose journey with the organization reflects both continuity and growth. Jill’s leadership is rooted in hands-on program development, beginning with her work founding a national afterschool dance initiative for at-risk youth. That work later evolved into the DEAEF Youth Dance Program. Over the years, Jill has served the DEAEF in multiple leadership roles, helping expand youth programming, strengthening our operations, and guiding strategic growth. After joining the DEAEF in 2012, she spent nearly a decade building and leading programs before assuming the role of President and CEO in 2020, bringing with her a clear commitment to prevention through education and mentorship.
“Much of how I lead is due to personal experiences I have had in the field with youth and from what I have learned from Bill. As I continue in my role as President and CEO, I vow to always remember why we do this work: to save lives and to help lead others toward happy, fulfilling futures.”
Jill L. Roberts, President and CEO, DEA Educational Foundation
A Heartfelt Thank You!
As we celebrate 25 years of impact, the DEAEF would like to thank our valued donors, coaches, staff, and partners for their unwavering dedication and support. The care and commitment of our partners have enabled us to expand our reach to thousands of youth and families across the country, helping them understand the consequences of substance use and the importance of maintaining healthy lifestyles. Every day, we strive to make a meaningful difference in the lives of children and families.
We sincerely appreciate your continued support and commitment to the mission of the DEA Educational Foundation.
ABOUT THE DEA EDUCATIONAL FOUNDATION
The 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.
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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.