“For over ten years, Lincoln School has had the benefit of having Brenda Conlan come to work with our middle and upper school students. Brenda is affectionately called “The Drug Lady” by everyone here. She is well respected by all, has the trust of both students and parents, and her visit is eagerly anticipated by the faculty. Brenda’s guidance and expertise in assisting us in our work with students is wonderful. Her energy and advice stay with us long after she departs, and carries us through in the continuation of this most difficult subject. I cannot imagine a year without Brenda.”
Kathy Capo – middle school head, Lincoln School

Brenda has mastered the art of weaving her personal story of addiction and recovery into the discussion that doesn’t glamorize drugs or eclipse the more important theme of the program; inviting students to reflect on their own attitudes and beliefs towards substances in a meaningful way. When students reach their own conclusions, real learning has begun…Brenda typically spends a week in a community working intensively with a particular grade. Recognizing that underage drinking and other drug use are community issues, she also provides workshops for parents, faculty and other concerned groups.