2024 Keynote Sessions

Minnesota has a rich history of primary prevention education programming. From chemical health to child sexual abuse prevention, from social emotional learning to restorative practices, the innovation of educators can be seen in schools, non-profits, and theater, a thick tapestry of care. Nancy will share her primary prevention journey, highlighting the weaving of creative collaborations between government and community, between teachers and students, between those who have been harmed and those who have harmed. In her 45 years as a prevention specialist, she has seen that primary prevention is woven out of caring relationships, a critical consciousness of the impact of racism on all of us, and practical application of research and evaluation findings. Our continued weavings of prevention work will continue to create practical responses and imaginative innovations.

Join award-winning photographer, John Noltner, on a journey of discovery and inspiration. A multi-media keynote presentation shares John’s story of following his passion, while at the same time revealing the wisdom of everyday Americans. Their stories reveal extraordinary insights into how we can work toward common good and create a world that is more just for all. In a series of four regional sessions in the spring of 2024, and at this conference, prevention professionals around Minnesota reflected on the question "What inspires hope in your prevention work?” John will present and reflect on this body of work, celebrate prevention work in Minnesota and guide us as we look toward the future. A Peace of My Mind represents John’s belief that art and storytelling have the power to transform our hearts as well as our communities and that we each have the power to create positive change in the world.

Motivational speaker and comedian Sheletta Brundidge will speak at the MN Prevention Program Sharing Conference. Using humor and her personal brand of storytelling to connect with people engaged in substance misuse prevention, Sheletta will inspire and empower them to never give up and keep fighting to make a difference.

Thomas brings a unique performance that incorporates Ojibwe culture, Red Lake history, and Anishinaabe elements through raw lyricism. Whether over rap beats, hand drums, or spoken word poetry; Thomas carries a message of indigenous empowerment and awareness. This performance will feature "New Day" by Vinny G, Elwood, Taylor O'Shea, and Q ft. Thomas X, brought to you by Step Up Deer River (Drug Free Communities Grantee) program out of Deer River Public Schools.