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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

PGCDPC Announces 2025 Scholarships Recipients: Congratulations to Simone Forrest, Webster Jackson, and Adrian Sison

Sunday, August 28, 2025, Oxon Hill, Maryland, (Hey Papi Promotions Media) — The Prince George’s County Drug Policy Coalition, Inc. (PGCDPC) is pleased to announce the recipients of its 2025 scholarship program. This year’s honored scholars are Simone Forrest, Webster Jackson, and Adrian Sison. Each recipient has demonstrated exceptional commitment to academic excellence, community engagement, and thoughtful reflection on current drug policy issues.

Meet the Scholars
Simone Forrest — 2025 graduate, Christ Church Boarding School. Simone’s leadership and academic achievements exemplify the Coalition’s mission to support young people who are poised to become thoughtful, data-informed voices in public health and policy.
Webster Jackson — Student at Salisbury University. Webster brings a critical perspective on policy and safety, underscoring the Coalition’s emphasis on evidence-based discussion around substance use and public health.
Adrian Sison — Graduate student at the University of Maryland, Baltimore. Adrian contributes important insight into the real-world implications of policy decisions and the importance of informed dialogue.

What the Scholarship Entails
Each recipient provided the standard scholarship documentation, including a resume, transcripts (high school or college), references, and proof of residence in County Council District 8. The application process reinforces PGCDPC’s commitment to supporting academically talented students who are rooted in the community they serve.

Thoughtful Reflections on Maryland’s Edibles Law
As part of the scholarship experience, recipients contributed essays addressing current Maryland law regarding adults 21 and over for personal use of edible products. Key takeaways from the essays illustrate the nuanced perspectives that young scholars bring to the table:
Simone Forrest emphasized that risk does not vanish with age; instead, it can become more complex, underscoring the need for ongoing education and thoughtful policy.
Webster Jackson offered a concern about home production, noting safety risks and challenges in dosage accuracy without professional oversight, and the implications for regulation and enforcement.
Adrian Sison reflected on experiential learning from his school community, suggesting that if individuals could control edible content more reliably, it might mitigate hospital visits and enhance safety.

A Commitment to Public Health and Humane Policy
PGCDPC continues to champion drug policies that reflect the public health nature of substance use and strive for humane, evidence-based approaches. The scholarship program is part of a broader effort to empower the next generation with critical thinking about today’s drug climate. Since its inception in 2012, the Coalition has awarded over $213,000 in scholarships, investing in students who will influence policy, health, and community well-being.

About PGCDPC
The Prince George’s County Drug Policy Coalition, Inc. is dedicated to advancing policies and laws that prioritize public health, reduce harm, and promote equitable outcomes for all residents. Through education, advocacy, and support for youth leadership, PGCDPC works to create healthier communities across Prince George’s County and Maryland.

Learn more at www.pgcdpc.com

Notes to editors
For more information or to arrange interviews with scholarship recipients or PGCDPC leadership, please contact the PGCDPC communications team at heypapipromotions@gmail.com.
High-resolution photos of the scholarship recipients are available upon request.

Contact: Publicist, Shawn Hay
Prince George’s County Drug Policy Coalition, Inc. (PGCDPC)
Website: www.pgcdpc.com
Email: heypapipromotions@gmail.com
Phone: (301) 641-0814

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