top of page

2023 Keynote Speakers

Thursday, November 9th - Opening Keynote Address by Hasan Davis

​

Join us for Hasan Davis' Opening Keynote session, Calling All H.O.P.E. Dealers, on Thursday, November 9th at 12:30 p.m. Part stand-up comedian, part storyteller, part statistician; Hasan Davis invites audiences on an emotional experience. Sharing his journey from Juvenile Delinquent to Juris Doctor, Hasan is proof positive that great things can happen when adults champion the lives of children.

 

Hasan is also the author of two books. Written Off is the culmination of a lifetime of love and lessons that have shaped his personal journey from a young man in crisis to a champion for children. It has been used in college social work courses, in higher education first-year initiative programs, and in reading groups for alternative school staff. His first children’s book, The Journey of York: The Unsung Hero of the Lewis and Clark Expedition tells the story of the only African American on the Lewis and Clark expedition.

 

As a performer, Hasan brings history alive and gives voice to overlooked heroes, bringing to light the stories of the people of color who have been present at all points of our history. Hasan’s one-man shows are a superb example of experiential, interactive learning that is engaging for adults as well as youth. Hasan has presented to groups ranging from corporations, colleges, historical organizations, public libraries, schools, prisons, and churches in over 37 states.

 

We're excited to share that Hasan will also be offering a session just for young adult leaders titled "A Way from No Way-Using the Bio Poem to Chart Your Path Forward" that same day from 2:15 – 3:15 p.m. The emerging youth workforce won't want to miss this session!

​

Hasan's Story

Hasan's Keynote Address

Friday, November 10th - Opening Plenary Session - Turtle on a Fencepost by Dr. Stephen Loyd

​

Dr. Loyd is a nationally renowned speaker on prescribing controlled substances and an expert in public health policy around substance use challenges and treatment. He is the Chief Medical Officer at Cedar Recovery and the former Medical Director and Assistant Commissioner for Substance Abuse Services with the Tennessee Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services.

 

While in residency, Stephen Loyd, MD, struggled with anxiety. A fateful experiment with taking hydrocodone led to several years of opiate dependence, culminating in an intervention by a family member. Dr. Loyd shares his personal story and connects his successful recovery to the social determinants of health, including adverse childhood experiences (ACEs). His personal journey galvanized him to move into substance use treatment and policy work and was part of the inspiration for the award-winning Hulu series, Dopesick, starring Michael Keaton.

 

There are two treatment paths in the United States. Dr. Loyd is going to show that. Being in recovery from Opioid and Benzodiazepine use since 2004, Dr. Loyd provides a unique perspective on addiction through his educational background as well as his lived experience. By the end of this talk you will understand the dichotomy of treatment in the United States and the need to provide a more comprehensive solution.

Dr. Loyd's Story

Dr. Loyd's Keynote Address

Saturday, November 11th - Mental Health and Social Justice Plenary 

​

Bringing voices of lived personal and family experience, Dr. Linda Henderson-Smith, Josh Boynton, and Hasan Davis will join forces during our 34th Annual Conference to discuss the importance of advancing social justice, equity, and inclusion for families and their children. You won't want to miss these three dynamic speakers and advocates at our Saturday Opening plenary on November 11th!

 

Watch our Social Justice Panel

bottom of page