Episode 22: Dawn Kepler, 21 years sober, builds college recovery community

Dawn Kepler is the coordinator of the Collegiate Recovery Community at Michigan State University, where she's seen - no joke - a decrease in alcohol use on campus.

To truly appreciate that feat, imagine life as a student at a Big Ten university. The tailgates. The parties. The lines outside bars. The general overwhelming pressure to fit into what's been drilled into us as the traditional college student experience. If a student is self-aware enough to say enough is enough, it's going to be tough sledding staying clean without an all-conference support team.

Dawn herself is 21 years sober, and as a sexual assault survivor, she's able to connect with students who've suffered a wide range of trauma, no matter what stage they're at in their recovery.

Our conversation with Dawn was presented by DUI & Behavioral Health Counseling Centers, which has offices here in northern Illinois – in Sycamore, Plano, and Crystal Lake. If you suspect you or someone you love has a problem with drinking, drugs, mental illness or anger, call 815-895-9000 today and set up an evaluation. Visit duisycamore.com for more information.