HUHS Office of Alcohol & Other Drug Services named prevention leader

The Harvard University Health Services (HUHS) Office of Alcohol & Other Drug Services (AODS) was named this year’s “Outstanding Leader in Prevention” by the city of Cambridge. The award recognizes the Cambridge organization/agency that has provided Cambridge with superior service in the prevention of substance abuse.

Since its inception (August 2005), the AODS has maintained a collaborative partnership with the Cambridge Prevention Coalition (CPC) and several city agencies. As AODS Director Ryan Travia explained, “The AODS routinely meets with colleagues from the CPC; Cambridge License Commission; Cambridge Police Department; local bar, restaurant, and package store owners; and my counterpart at MIT [Massachusetts Institute of Technology] in an effort to address common challenges and to collaborate toward solutions. All of these partners share the common goal of preventing underage and high-risk drinking and are extremely dedicated to the students they serve, from the elementary level through graduate and professional school.”

“I am also extremely proud of my staff, including our 27 drug and alcohol peer advisers,” noted Travia. “AODS staff, associates, and our student-leaders are all incredibly invested in making the Harvard campus a healthier community.”