Dr. Kristie Coleman, supervisor of student services at Bristol Tennessee City Schools, has been honored as one of the 2025 Prevention Partners of the Year by the Sullivan County Anti-Drug Coalition (SCAD) for her exceptional commitment to youth wellness and substance use prevention. The recognition was presented during SCAD’s annual meeting on May 8.
Dr. Coleman played a pivotal role in the development and success of the Vaping Task Force, a collaborative initiative aimed at reducing youth vaping across the region. In addition to being a strong contributor, she actively engaged school personnel at all levels, ensuring effective implementation of prevention strategies across BTCS.
Her efforts also helped connect the task force’s proposals to school administrators, resulting in successful advocacy for stronger state laws to protect students. Dr. Coleman further elevated youth prevention efforts by championing the Tennessee Together Student Survey, which gathers data to inform future initiatives.
“Dr. Coleman’s dedication has strengthened the partnership between Bristol Tennessee City Schools and the Sullivan County Anti-Drug Coalition,” said SCAD Administration Director Alice McCaffrey. “She continues to help shape impactful initiatives and foster a shared commitment to protecting young people.”
Dr. Coleman shared her gratitude for the honor, saying,
“I’m truly honored to be named a Prevention Partner of the Year. I have deep respect for the work of the Sullivan County Anti-Drug Coalition and all of the partner organizations who are working together to protect and support our youth. It’s a privilege to stand alongside them in this important work. I’m especially thankful for the initiatives they lead—these efforts make a real difference for our students and families.”
Also recognized as a 2025 Prevention Partner of the Year was Principal Andy Hare of Sullivan East High School in Sullivan County Schools. Principal Hare was honored for his exceptional dedication to supporting student success and promoting substance use prevention every day at his school.
To learn more about the Sullivan County Anti-Drug Coalition and its prevention efforts, visit www.scadc.org.