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Projects with Promise

Vol. 29 No. 1

Evolution of a University–School Partnership: Suicide and Substance Misuse Prevention

  • Madison E. Antunez
  • Monica Nandan
  • Stephen Z. Emmons
Submitted
May 17, 2023
Published
2025-04-24

Abstract

This article follows the early-stage planning, implementation, and evaluation of a university–school-based partnership (USBP) between a large Carnegie-designated doctoral research institution (R2) and local high schools in Georgia. The purpose of the partnership was to implement suicide and substance use prevention efforts over 3 years. USBPs are mutually beneficial to partners and provide opportunities for positive change within the larger community. Two evidence-based prevention programs were implemented: Sources of Strength (SOS) and Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR). The authors describe the development and evolution of the partnership as well as the prevention programs with underserved student populations, lessons learned over the 3 years, and early-stage positive implications for sustaining the project.