UA Little Rock Expands Student Safety Efforts Through ‘One Pill Can Kill’ Partnership

The University of Arkansas at Little Rock has joined forces with Arkansas Attorney General Tim Griffin to combat the growing threat of fentanyl and counterfeit prescription drugs through the “One Pill Can Kill” Initiative. The statewide campaign combines education, training, and access to life-saving resources with the goal of preventing overdoses and raising awareness among college students.

UA Little Rock joined the initiative on Sept. 8 during a press conference at the Bailey Alumni and Friends Center. Griffin and Chancellor Christina Drale joined student leaders, faculty, and staff to announce the university’s participation, underscoring the importance of prevention and education at a time when opioids remain one of the nation’s most pressing public health crises.

“This continues our commitment to bring this initiative to college campuses across Arkansas,” Griffin said. “The education, awareness, and resources this initiative provides will no doubt save lives. “Chancellor Drale and the UA Little Rock staff have been great partners in this effort, and I appreciate their commitment to keeping their students safe and addressing this nationwide crisis head-on.”

Griffin, who lost his brother to opioid addiction earlier this year, emphasized that prevention and education are critical steps in the fight against the opioid epidemic.

“Our goal is to educate campuses by working through student leaders, the media, and word of mouth,” Griffin said. “We are providing training here to ensure students are prepared, including in the use of Narcan if needed. We are making progress, but this is a fight we must continue.”

Chancellor Drale echoed those concerns, noting that universities have a unique responsibility to protect students and provide resources for wellness and safety.

“As an institution of higher education, we’re committed to being part of the solution,” Drale said. “That means sharing information, having difficult conversations, and connecting students to the resources they need. The reality is that it only takes one moment, one decision, one pill to change a life forever.”

The launch included the first campus training session, where more than 100 participants learned how to recognize the signs of an opioid overdose, administer Narcan, and use fentanyl test strips. Attendees left with prevention kits containing Narcan, testing strips, gloves, a medication disposal pouch, and information on counterfeit drugs.

Dr. Sharon Downs, assistant vice chancellor of student affairs – wellness and belonging, said the turnout reflects the urgent interest in addressing this issue on campus.

“The training was a great success with over 100 engaged participants who asked thoughtful questions,” Downs said. “We will continue to offer Narcan training each semester, and students can also pick up harm prevention kits at Health Services while supplies last.”

Additional support will soon be available through a new vending machine that will be installed in the Donaghey Student Center. Provided by the Attorney General’s office, the machine will dispense free Narcan alongside over-the-counter medications, offering students an anonymous and accessible way to obtain life-saving resources.

Student leaders say the initiative is already making an impact.

“I was very encouraged to see UA Little Rock join the ‘One Pill Can Kill’ Initiative,” said Ainsley Kendall, a junior business administration major and president of the Student Government Association. “Addiction, particularly opioid misuse, is one of the most pressing issues facing college students today, yet many don’t know how to respond if a crisis occurs. This program is an important step in expanding education and equipping students to make a lasting impact.”

Braden Carr, a junior political science and criminal justice major, said he looks forward to continuing the conversation.

“I am extremely excited to see the university and the Attorney General come together to tackle this issue,” said Carr, who serves as legislative affairs officer for the Student Government Association. “This program is a great first step in educating students on the dangers of the opioid epidemic. As a student leader, I will continue to advocate for increased education and awareness, alongside supporting partnerships such as this.”Students who need support can access resources through Counseling Services in SSC 118, by calling 501-916-3185, or by emailing [email protected]. Online resources are also available at ualr.edu/wellness and ualr.at/narcan.