The National Center on Addiction and Substance Abuse 25th Annual Awards Dinner Celebrates American Leadership in Eradicating Addiction

"We have a big problem with addiction in our country – more people are dying from drugs than by guns or car accidents," said Joseph J. Plumeri, Executive Chair of CASA, to the crowd. "To fix this problem of epic proportions, we need imagination – we need to believe we can end addiction. That's why you are all here tonight."

During the evening, Mr. Plumeri delivered remarks focused on the future of the organization.  

"CASA has spent the last 25 years researching the solutions to addiction and now we're going to put them into action," added Mr. Plumeri. "No family should have to suffer the loss of a child to addiction, as my family did. We won't rest until addiction is eradicated."

Joining Mr. Plumeri were a number of other notable guests, including Columba and Jeb Bush, former governor of Florida; Kathryn and Kenneth I. Chenault, Chairman and CEO of American Express; and Alma and Charles Rangel, former New York Congressman.

The dinner, held at The Pierre in midtown Manhattan, paid tribute to William M. Lewis, Jr., Managing Director and Co-Chairman, Investment Banking, Lazard and Steve Rusckowski, Chairman, President and CEO of Quest Diagnostics Incorporated, for their innovative leadership in health care and commitment to supporting CASA's mission. Also honored were Herbert Pardes, MD, Executive Vice Chairman of the Board, NewYork-Presbyterian Hospital and Michael I. Sovern, President Emeritus at Columbia University, for their roles in helping to shape CASA and establish it as an affiliate of Columbia University.

The CASA gala raises funds to combat substance abuse and addiction and improve the lives of people impacted by this deadly disease.

About The National Center on Addiction and Substance Abuse

We are a national nonprofit research and policy organization focused on improving the understanding, prevention, and treatment of substance use and addiction. Founded 25 years ago by former U.S. Secretary of Health, Education, and Welfare, Joseph A. Califano, Jr., research conducted at the organization has influenced policies and practices, been a key educational resource to the public, and helped to improve treatment and care for people with addiction.  

*The National Center on Addiction and Substance Abuse is neither affiliated with, nor sponsored by, the National Court Appointed Special Advocate Association (also known as "CASA") or any of its member organizations, or any other organization with the name of "CASA."

SOURCE The National Center on Addiction and Substance Abuse

Related Links

http://www.centeronaddiction.org/