Schuylerville 8th grade and 12th grade students heard a powerful message from Stephen Hill, a well-respected advocate for addiction prevention and recovery. Hillhad the opportunity to connect with students, sharing his experiences and insights in a series of impactful presentations.
At the middle school level, Hill focused on the concept of choices. He stressed the importance of understanding how their decisions today can shape their future, and that life offers many opportunities to live without resorting to drugs or alcohol.
“The choices you make have consequences, whether they are positive or negative ones,” said Hill. “It’s our job to give you as much information as possible to help you make positive ones. At this age, you have endless possibilities and choices ahead of you. Be the person that makes good choices, but also be the person who helps another person make good choices.”
Hill’s presentation for the high school seniors took a more legal and scientific turn, covering crucial topics such as:
- Affirmative consent
- Aggravated DWI (Driving While Intoxicated)
- Court sentencing and legal consequences
- The Good Samaritan Law
- Social host law
- Civil claims resulting from DWI
- Brain science and its disconnect with the law
Hill is a well-respected advocate for addiction prevention and recovery. His drive for self-improvement led him to earn his bachelor’s degree with honors from John Jay College of Criminal Justice, as well as a Juris Doctor from Brooklyn Law School. Hill published his memoir, A Journey to Recovery, which chronicles his battle with addiction and the lessons he learned along the way. His journey has taken him across the country, where he has presented in front of thousands of people, sharing his cautionary tale of addiction, recovery, and the power of making better choices. Prior to his presentation to Schuylerville students, Hill spoke at a parent community event, sponsored by the Saratoga County Board of Supervisors and hosted at Schuylerville High School.
“I thought Stephen Hill was very dynamic and was glad I was able to attend,” said Saratoga County District Attorney Karen Heggen. “Sadly, we see the effect of drugs, alcohol and cannabis each day in our office in so many different ways. I am glad Mr. Hill’s presentation will reach so many students in our county, as I firmly believe it will make a significant difference in many lives.”