Category: Partners

Georgia’s Largest Public HBCU Joins National Cohort to Expand Campus Behavioral Health, Mental Health Services, and Student Crisis Response in Southwest Georgia

ALBANY, GA, UNITED STATES, March 20, 2026 /EINPresswire.com/ — Albany State University (ASU), Georgia’s largest public Historically Black College and University (HBCU), has been selected to participate in the 2026 SAMHSA (Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration) HBCU Policy Academy. The selection followed a competitive national application and a thorough committee review. Albany State University will attend the in-person Policy Academy convening in Atlanta, Georgia, on April 27–28, 2026.

The SAMHSA HBCU Policy Academy is a federal program administered by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration that provides selected Historically Black Colleges and Universities with expert guidance, technical assistance, and peer learning to strengthen campus behavioral health systems, mental health services, and crisis response infrastructure. Albany State University’s selection reflects its demonstrated commitment to student wellness and its readiness to build a nationally recognized model for HBCU behavioral health.

Albany State University Vice President for Student Affairs and Enrollment Management Dr. Jarrod Benjamin will lead the seven-member institutional team representing ASU at the 2026 convening.

“Being selected for the SAMHSA HBCU Policy Academy is a testament to the outstanding work Albany State University is doing every day to support student wellness, safety, and success. This opportunity will accelerate our ability to build a data-driven, culturally responsive behavioral health system at Albany State — one that meets our students where they are and prepares them for where they are going. I am proud of this team and deeply grateful to everyone who helped make this possible.” – Dr. Jarrod Benjamin, Vice President for Student Affairs and Enrollment Management, Albany State University

What Is the SAMHSA HBCU Policy Academy and Why Was Albany State University Selected?

The SAMHSA HBCU Policy Academy is a competitive federal initiative that selects a cohort of Historically Black Colleges and Universities to receive structured, expert-led technical assistance in building comprehensive campus behavioral health systems. Participating institutions develop evidence-based mental health policies, strengthen crisis prevention and response protocols, and establish sustainable frameworks for student wellness that are grounded in culturally responsive practice.

Albany State University was selected following a rigorous national application process that assessed institutional readiness, existing behavioral health infrastructure, and the strength of the University’s proposed direction. ASU’s selection is recognition that its student wellness programs, counseling services, and cross-functional approach to campus health have reached a level of development — and a standard of ambition — that positions the University as a leader in HBCU behavioral health nationally.

The application was prepared under the leadership of Dean of Student Development Dedra Williams and Director of Counseling and Student Accessibility Services Nicola “Simone” Bradley, whose expertise and commitment were essential to Albany State’s competitive submission.

How Albany State University’s Participation in the SAMHSA HBCU Policy Academy Will Benefit Students

Albany State University’s participation in the 2026 SAMHSA HBCU Policy Academy will produce concrete, lasting improvements to campus mental health resources, crisis response systems, and behavioral health infrastructure that directly benefit ASU students — particularly first-generation students, rural students, and underserved communities who depend most on expanded access to behavioral health support.

Through the Policy Academy, Albany State University will pursue the following outcomes:

• Develop a coordinated, campus-wide behavioral health strategic plan grounded in data and culturally responsive practices that reflect the lived experiences of ASU’s student population.

• Strengthen crisis prevention and response protocols — including after-hours emergency procedures, postvention planning following a campus crisis, and formalized collaboration between the ASU Counseling Center and the University Police Department.

• Expand mental health and substance-use screening using evidence-based clinical tools, including the PHQ-9 (Patient Health Questionnaire), GAD-7 (Generalized Anxiety Disorder Scale), and SBIRT (Screening, Brief Intervention, and Referral to Treatment).

• Advance suicide prevention programming and trauma-informed care across campus, with a focus on reducing stigma and lowering barriers to help-seeking for all students.

• Formalize partnerships with local behavioral health providers and community crisis resources to ensure warm handoffs, improved continuity of care, and long-term collaboration between the University and the Albany, Georgia, behavioral health network.

• Expand student-centered wellness programming, peer engagement initiatives, and campus-wide educational campaigns around mental health awareness and substance-use prevention.

• Reinforce ASU’s Behavioral Health and Campus Wellness Task Force, ensuring that recommendations, progress, and measurable outcomes are communicated clearly to campus leadership, students, faculty, staff, and the broader Albany community.

This work directly advances Albany State University’s institutional mission to support total student success. Albany State University believes that academic excellence and personal well-being are inseparable, and that a student who is supported, safe, and mentally well is a student who is positioned to thrive.

Albany State University’s 2026 SAMHSA HBCU Policy Academy Team

The following Albany State University professionals will represent the University at the 2026 SAMHSA HBCU Policy Academy convening in Atlanta, Georgia, on April 27–28, 2026:

Dr. Jarrod Benjamin, Vice President for Student Affairs and Enrollment Management
Dedra Williams, Dean of Student Development
Orlandria Bennett-Reed, Interim Director of Student Health Services
Nicola “Simone” Bradley, Director of Counseling and Student Accessibility Services
Dr. Kimberly Burgess, Executive Director of Student Success
Tatotshia Grier, Assistant Chief of Police
Shayla Taylor, Director of Greek Life and Community Engagement

Special recognition is extended to Dean Dedra Williams and Director Nicola “Simone” Bradley for their leadership in preparing the competitive national application that secured Albany State’s selection.

Albany State University: An HBCU on the Rise in Student Success and Academic Excellence

Albany State University’s selection for the 2026 SAMHSA HBCU Policy Academy reflects a broader trajectory of institutional momentum, academic achievement, and national recognition. Albany State University is Georgia’s largest public HBCU, serving more than 6,800 students and generating $282 million in annual economic impact across Southwest Georgia.

Albany State University has recorded four consecutive years of enrollment growth, and achieved the highest retention improvement in the University System of Georgia. ASU placed first in a NASA University Design Challenge and has secured more than $10 million in competitive grant funding. The University supports more than 2,600 jobs across the region and serves as the intellectual and economic engine of Southwest Georgia.

The SAMHSA HBCU Policy Academy selection adds a significant dimension to that record, affirming that Albany State University’s commitment to student wellness is not only deep, but nationally recognized. Under President Dr. Robert Scott’s leadership, Albany State is building toward its full potential as a premier regional university where academic excellence and student well-being advance together.

Rachel Lawrence
Albany State University
+1 229-364-6683
email us here

Albany State University: A Place to Thrive

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Green Fields expands extracurriculars with mentorship, events, and experiential learning, strengthening community, leadership, and student engagement.

TUCSON, AZ, UNITED STATES, March 20, 2026 /EINPresswire.com/ — Green Fields School is proud to announce a dynamic expansion of its extracurricular programming, further strengthening its commitment to providing a well-rounded, community-centered education. Building on its reputation for academic excellence and individualized learning, the school continues to invest in meaningful experiences that foster connection, creativity, and real-world engagement for students across all grade levels.

At the heart of this expansion is the newly introduced Helping Buddies Program, a cross-divisional initiative that brings together international students and younger learners in Grades 1–3 for weekly shared reading sessions. This program exemplifies Green Fields’ commitment to both academic development and community building. International students refine their language skills and pronunciation, while elementary students gain valuable reading support in a collaborative, low-pressure environment. The response to the program has been overwhelmingly positive, with students from both groups expressing enthusiasm and requesting additional sessions. More than a literacy initiative, Helping Buddies has quickly become a cornerstone of the school’s culture, reinforcing empathy, mentorship, and meaningful peer-to-peer learning.

Green Fields has also continued to enhance its tradition of vibrant community events, creating opportunities for students to connect beyond the classroom. This year’s Winter Formal, organized through a collaboration between the Student Council and Parent Association, set a celebratory tone for the semester. With music, games, and a lively dance floor, the event brought together students across divisions in a joyful and inclusive environment. It served not only as a social highlight of the year but also as a reflection of the strong partnerships between students, families, and school leadership.

Similarly, the annual Fall Potluck once again demonstrated the strength of the Green Fields community. Families, students, and faculty gathered in the school gym to share food, culture, and conversation in a warm and welcoming setting. With contributions from across the school community, the event showcased both diversity and unity. Organized by the Student Council, the potluck continues to be a beloved tradition that highlights student leadership and family engagement while fostering a deep sense of belonging.

Beyond social programming, Green Fields is expanding opportunities for academic enrichment and creative expression through experiential learning initiatives. Students are actively preparing for the National History Day (NHD) Regional Competition, where interdisciplinary collaboration takes center stage. Art and Design students are currently creating visual backdrops for a student-written play exploring the history of Chinese immigrants in the United States. This production, developed by a diverse group of students including international participants, reflects Green Fields’ emphasis on cultural awareness, historical inquiry, and creative storytelling. The project not only strengthens research and presentation skills but also empowers students to engage with complex social themes in meaningful ways.

Green Fields students are also benefiting from enhanced access to world-class learning experiences beyond campus. Recently, secondary students attended the 2026 Tucson Gem and Mineral Show, the largest and oldest event of its kind globally. With this year’s theme celebrating the 250th anniversary of the United States, students had the opportunity to engage directly with scientific, historical, and cultural exhibits. Experiences like these provide students with tangible connections to their coursework while broadening their global perspective and intellectual curiosity.

These expanded offerings reflect Green Fields School’s holistic approach to education, where academic rigor is complemented by opportunities for leadership, creativity, and community engagement. By investing in programs that span mentorship, cultural exchange, experiential learning, and student-led initiatives, Green Fields continues to distinguish itself as a school that prioritizes the full development of every student.

As the school looks ahead, it remains committed to building on this momentum, ensuring that every student has access to experiences that inspire growth, connection, and lifelong learning.

For more information about Green Fields School and its programs, please visit www.greenfields.org.

Joshua Mauro
Green Fields School
+1 (520) 297-2288
email us here

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ABFC’s Presidents Participates in Canada-Japan Roundtable to Support Canada’s Trade Diversification Strategy

TOKYO, JAPAN, March 20, 2026 /EINPresswire.com/ — Advanced Biofuels Canada Association (ABFC) president Fred Ghatala participated in the ‘Canada-Japan Roundtable on Marine Decarbonization: Aligning Energy Strategy, Ports, and Maritime Transition’ in Tokyo, Japan, March 15-18. ABFC’s participation supports Canada’s trade diversification strategy and highlights the role of low carbon fuels in marine decarbonization. The Roundtable was organized by Global Affairs Canada and Transport Canada.

The Marine Decarbonization Roundtable brought together representatives from Canadian and Japanese government agencies alongside industry leaders to discuss collaborative strategies to deploy solutions for reducing marine emissions. This engagement reinforces the importance of low carbon fuels as a readily available opportunity for addressing maritime emissions amid expanding trade engagement with Asian markets.

“Maritime transport underpins global trade, carrying more than 80% of all goods traded worldwide by volume. Canada and Japan have a clear opportunity to work together to tackle marine emissions, and low carbon fuels play a critical role. Low carbon fuels are available today, work with existing engines and infrastructure, and can deliver immediate emissions reductions while other technologies continue to scale,” said Fred Ghatala, President of Advanced Biofuels Canada.

ABFC strongly supports Prime Minister Mark Carney’s ambitious agenda to diversify and expand Canada’s international trade. ABFC’s participation in the Japan roundtable follows its role in the Team Canada Trade Mission to Mexico, led by Minister Dominic Leblanc alongside Ministers Heath MacDonald and Marc Miller, where the delegation worked to strengthen the Canada–Mexico trade relationship.

About the Advanced Biofuels Canada Association
Advanced Biofuels Canada (ABFC) is the national industry voice for producers, distributors, and technology providers for low carbon alternatives to gasoline, diesel, marine, and jet fuels. ABFC members operate over 45 billion litres of low carbon fuel production capacity globally and are significant suppliers to renewable and low carbon fuel programs in Canada and worldwide. For more information, visit www.advancedbiofuels.ca.

Farrah Shawky
Advanced Biofuels Canada
info@advancedbiofuels.ca

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LOS ANGELES, CA, UNITED STATES, March 20, 2026 /EINPresswire.com/ — Hill, Farrer & Burrill LLP announced today that Partner Daniel McCarthy has once again been named to the 2026 Lawdragon “500 Leading Global Bankruptcy & Restructuring Lawyers” guide. He was also selected in 2025. Featured lawyers are identified through Lawdragon’s rigorous selection process, combining extensive research and peer vetting. “These are the advisors who can keep their cool for companies, investors, governments and others on the fiscal precipice,” states the publisher.

“We are incredibly proud to see Dan recognized once again for his exceptional work in bankruptcy and restructuring,” says Managing Attorney Dean Dennis. “This honor is a testament to Dan’s unwavering commitment to his clients and his ability to navigate the most complex and high-stakes legal challenges with both strategic precision and aggressive advocacy.”

McCarthy is a seasoned business litigator with a proven track record of acting as lead counsel in hundreds of cases across state, federal and bankruptcy courts. Specializing in complex real estate lawsuits, partnership disputes and asset recovery, he is particularly recognized for his skill in pursuing fraudulent transfers to protect creditor interests. McCarthy’s deep technical expertise is complemented by extensive experience before the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals and the Bankruptcy Appellate Panel for the Ninth Circuit. His relentless advocacy has earned him consistent professional acclaim, including long-standing recognition by Super Lawyers in the areas of Business Bankruptcy and Business Litigation.

Beyond the courtroom, McCarthy serves as an editorial consultant for the Matthew Bender Practice Guide on California Debt Collection and Enforcement of Judgments and has dedicated over a decade of leadership to nonprofit boards, including serving as Chair of the Board for Notre Dame High School.

Jonathan Fitzgarrald
Equinox Strategy Partners
+ +1 3106016008
email us here
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UARA Skincare, a skincare and wellness company, has introduced two new products designed for both home and hospitality environments.

NEW YORK, NY, UNITED STATES, March 20, 2026 /EINPresswire.com/ — JUARA Skincare, a skincare and wellness company inspired by the traditional Indonesian practice of Jamu, has introduced two new products designed for both home and hospitality environments: the Candlenut Hand and Body Wash and the Tiare Jasmine Hand and Body Wash. This launch reflects the company’s continued expansion into the global wellness and spa space, where thoughtfully formulated bath and body products, such as those from JUARA, are increasingly seen as part of holistic self-care.

Inspired by centuries-old Indonesian beauty traditions, JUARA blends botanical ingredients and aromatic elements commonly associated with restorative rituals in Southeast Asian wellness culture. In spa environments, these traditions often extend beyond spa treatments themselves to include everyday moments such as handwashing and bathing, which are increasingly designed to feel intentional, calming, and immersive.

Designed for gentle cleansing and daily hydration, the new hand and body washes are expertly crafted to deliver a refreshing sensory experience that aligns with professional luxury spa environments. The Candlenut Hand and Body Wash features the brand’s signature Candlenut scent, a warm, tropical aroma, while the Tiare Jasmine Hand and Body Wash offers an uplifting, fresh fragrance.

The introduction of these specific products builds upon JUARA’s already established presence in highly regarded international wellness destinations. The brand’s products are currently featured at exclusive locations, including the renowned Polynesian Day Spa in Rotorua, New Zealand. Furthermore, JUARA maintains a strong and growing footprint across numerous luxury hotels and destination spas in Indonesia, such as the Tugu Resort in Bali and the Inaria Spa at InterContinental Hotel in Jakarta, the very region where the brand’s roots and wellness philosophies originate.

Beyond spa environments, JUARA continues to expand its sensory offerings through lifestyle products that bring elements of the spa experience into the home. JUARA recently introduced a Candle & Diffuser Set featuring their Joy Candle and Candlenut Reed Diffuser, the latter of which features the same signature scent found in the Candlenut Hand and Body Wash.

Beyond its product offerings and hospitality presence, JUARA seeks to help individuals cultivate joy and improved well-being through immersive wellness retreats. JUARA’s wellness retreats are hosted in Bali, Indonesia, and are designed to invite self-reflection and mindful connection, offering participants a chance to slow down, engage with traditional practices, and explore the holistic principles that inspire the brand. By combining the restorative power of the island’s environment with thoughtfully guided experiences, JUARA’s retreats encourage a deeper understanding of personal well-being and the rituals that support it.

Marie-Laure Fournier
JUARA Skincare
+1 (212) 737-0621
https://www.fournierprandconsulting.com
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The JUARA Story of Jamu

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