Lewis named 

to national board

PUTNAM — While many Connecticut students will be honored with end-of -year school awards, Putnam High School Junior Jozzlynn Lewis has earned a coveted spot on a national teen board. 

Each year, Students Against Destructive Decisions or SADD, provides an opportunity for select students to join an exciting advocacy-training program called SADD SPEAKs. SADD state coordinator for Connecticut, the Governor’s Prevention Partnership, recently announced Lewis’ appointment.  

“Jozzlynn was one of only 15 young people from across the country who was chosen. It is quite an honor!” said Jill Spineti, president and CEO, The Governor’s Prevention Partnership (The Partnership). “This is also significant for The Partnership because this is the first time in 10 years that we have had a youth from Connecticut involved in a national SADD initiative.”

“While underage drinking has dropped 8.9 percent, that’s not good enough,” states Spineti. “More than 50 percent of Connecticut’s youth continue to deal with issues of drug use, family alcoholism, bullying and child abuse. We partner with SADD and exemplary students such as Jozzlynn to help children avoid all substances to ensure a healthier future.”

Lewis, 17, underwent a competitive selection process which focused on her experience, leadership qualities, public speaking ability, and other criteria. 

She was recognized as a dynamic student leader who has also been involved in her local substance abuse prevention coalition, Putnam PRIDE, for many years, along with her mother, Cheryl Lewis. 

Her interest in SADD stems from seeing alcohol and substance use in her own school. 

“Sometimes kids come to class under the influence,” explains Lewis. “This has a negative influence on all of the students, not just the ones who use.  I became involved in SADD in order to make a difference and do my part to make things better.” 

Lewis’ commitment and dedication certainly impressed the judging panel. “Jozzlynn is deserving of this high honor. Her deep desire to empower her peers and change her community will serve her well, as she works to implement policy change at the local, state, and national level,” said Dawn Teixeira, SADD president and chief executive officer. “Motivated young people are a true catalyst for social change.”

“I am so very proud of Jozzlynn and her dedication to SADD, as well as her commitment to wanting to make Putnam High School and our community a safer place to learn and live,” adds Lisa Mooney, school social worker and SADD advisor at Putnam High School.