Promoting Prevention Careers in Secondary and Higher Education
Tuesday, November 17, 2026
10:00 a.m. – 11:30 a.m. PT
Overview
Engaging youth and transitional age youth (TAY) in prevention programming is an important component of primary substance use and misuse prevention. This also provides an opportunity for youth who are excited about prevention to explore the field as a professional career. This Community of Practice session will identify pathways for promoting prevention careers in high school and college settings including recruitment basics and building partnerships with local schools.
About the Presenters
Gabe Teran (he/him) is a 20+ year professional in youth and community advocacy work. He is a subject matter expert in the fields of substance use prevention and youth development. He has also delivered engaging, prevention-focused workshops at statewide and national conferences.
Gabe has provided direct services to young people for the entirety of his career – many from historically challenged communities. He has also directly overseen substance use prevention initiatives and developed youth leadership programming.
Gabe holds a Master of Science degree in Management and Leadership as well as two certifications for substance use disorders work in the state of California.
Dr. Kristyl Smith-Brown (she/her) is a passionate advocate, educator, and dynamic speaker whose personal journey with sickle cell anemia informs her work in raising awareness about chronic illness, disability rights, and workplace accommodations. As someone who has navigated the challenges of living with a chronic condition, Dr. Kristyl brings a deeply personal and impactful perspective to her advocacy, empowering audiences to create inclusive spaces for individuals with disabilities.
Dr. Kristyl holds a Doctorate of Psychology in Organizational Management and Consulting and has over a decade of experience in nonprofit/organizational management. Dr. Kristyl specializes in creating centralized data systems, streamlining organizational processes, and fostering cohesive workflows that enhance employee experiences while staying true to an organization’s mission. As Dean of Operations at Tarzana Treatment Centers College, she led transformative initiatives that improved operational efficiency and cross-departmental collaboration.
Dr. Kristyl also serves as a professor, teaching the Psychology of Oppression, where she examines intersectionality and its impact on both personal and professional lives. Her thought-provoking curriculum encourages critical thinking about systems of power and their effects on marginalized communities.
A dynamic and engaging speaker, Dr. Kristyl offers valuable insights on topics including sickle cell advocacy, disability inclusion, organizational strategy, and leadership. Her unique blend of lived experience, academic expertise, and professional acumen inspires audiences to embrace equity, innovation, and collaboration.