May 11, 2018

Manchin Congratulates Drug Court Graduates in Kanawha County

Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senator Joe Manchin (D-WV) congratulated Kanawha County Drug Court graduates in his keynote address at their graduation ceremony today. Senator Manchin was joined by Kanawha County Commissioner Kent Carper, Sheriff Mike Rutherford, and Judge Jennifer Bailey in celebrating seven graduates.

“Drug court changes lives – but it doesn’t do the work for you. You have to commit to it. It’s about hard work. It’s about day-in, day-out commitment. It’s about accountability. And it’s about hope. Wonderful people like Judge Bailey are here to help see you through, but you’ve done the hard work. And you’ve given yourselves – and those who love you – all the hope in the world. We congratulate you and we are all cheering you on as you move forward in your lives,” Senator Manchin said.

Today’s seven graduates include:

  • Latischa DeBord, who completed the program at Recovery Point here in Charleston, and she’s now a peer mentor and supervisor.
  • Betsy Gibson, who completed the Recovery Coach Academy at BridgeValley Community and Technical Center.
  • Lisa Goodnite has completed the program at Recovery Point here in Charleston, as well as the Recovery Coach Academy at BridgeValley. She’s also a store manager.
  • Kristen Tippett is a full-time student at BridgeValley, and she’s been on the dean’s list every semester. She’s studying Human Services and Rehabilitation Services.
  • Brandon Carpenter is finishing a program at the Kanawha Valley Fellowship Home, and he’s working on completing his GED.
  • Heath Johnson completed an outpatient program in partnership with Prestera, and is working toward a construction career with his father.
  • Todd Wood completed the program at Kanawha Valley Fellowship Home. And he’s enrolling to resume his academic studies at WVU Tech in Beckley.

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