The Washington State University Common Reading Program hosts Noel Vest to discuss “The Downward Spiral of Addiction and the Journey Out: Prison, Academia, and Recovery” at 5 p.m. in CUE 203. This lecture is free and open to the public.
An experimental psychology Ph.D. student and WSU Tri-Cities alumnus, Vest will detail his life experiences and the perspective they lend to this year’s conversation surrounding the year’s Common Reading book, “Just Mercy.”
He is candid about his struggle with addiction and alcoholism for much of his life. Drug- and alcohol-free since July 1, 2002, he has dedicated his life to helping other addicts overcome addiction as well as teaching them that it is never too late to battle back from adversity. Told through his own inspiring and life-changing experience, Vest’s presentation will discuss his journey through the criminal justice system and the redeeming role that academia has played in his spirited story.
Since 2006, the Common Reading Program has stimulated academic discussions in first-year courses, classrooms, and beyond, touching the academic lives of thousands of WSU students. The program is part of WSU Undergraduate Education and hosts expert guest lectures, film showings, and other events that explore the topics raised in this year’s chosen book, “Just Mercy” by Bryan Stevenson.
Read more about the program, the book, and additional events sponsored by the Common Reading Program and its many partner programs at https://CommonReading.wsu.edu
