HARRISONBURG, VA (Rocktown Now) — On Thursday, August 21, 2025, First Lady of Virginia Suzanne S. Youngkin joined Secretary of Health and Human Resources Janet V. Kelly, James Madison University (JMU) leadership, and student leaders to officially launch the Fentanyl College Ambassador Program at JMU on National Fentanyl Prevention and Awareness Day.

According to a release, statewide efforts across legislation, law enforcement, education, and naloxone distribution have reportedly resulted in a 46% decrease in overdose deaths since the peak in 2021.

The launch began with a reception at the Atlantic Union Bank Center, where the First Lady met with students in campus organization and explained the It Only Takes One (IOTO) initiative.

“On this National Fentanyl Prevention and Awareness Day, we launch the Fentanyl College Ambassador Program to equip students with the knowledge, resources, and courage to be lifesavers on school campuses and in their communities,” said First Lady Suzanne S. Youngkin. “This builds on our ongoing efforts to protect lives and we certainly laud JMU and Virginia college students who are stepping up to lead a movement – because it only takes one person, one conversation, and one decision to save a life.”

The launch continued at Sentara Park for the Dukes’ men’s soccer game, where the First Lady further explained the IOTO and the Fentanyl College Ambassador Program.

Reportedly recent data shows that Harrisonburg and Rockingham are experiencing reductions in overdose deaths between 2023 and 2024—down 16.7% across all drugs and 70% for fentanyl—while non-opioid fatalities have remained steady.