Sixth annual Substance Misuse and Overdose Prevention Summit set for August 14
Las Vegas event explores new approaches in the evolving substance use landscape
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
August 13, 2025
LAS VEGAS – The Southern Nevada Health District, in partnership with the Nevada Institute for Children’s Research & Policy, will host the sixth annual Substance Misuse and Overdose Prevention Summit on Thursday, August 14, from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the UNLV Strip View Pavilion, 4505 S. Maryland Parkway, Las Vegas, NV 89154.
This year’s sold-out summit is centered on the theme: “Harmonization: A block party on the corner of healing and collaboration, where everyone has a seat at the table.” The summit will feature engaging workshops, thought-provoking presentations and collaborative discussions that address the challenges of substance use and overdose prevention.
“This summit provides a valuable opportunity to examine the needs of individuals and families affected by substance use, while emphasizing new perspectives and innovative approaches to addressing the overdose crisis,” said Dr. Cassius Lockett, District Health Officer for the Southern Nevada Health District.
Key topics include:
- Overdose prevention strategies in Southern Nevada emergency departments.
- Launch of the Southern Nevada Post Overdose Response (SPORT) Program bridging public health and public safety.
- A syndemic approach to prevention: Addressing heat, drug use, screening and health equity.
- Nutrition, recovery and stigma: “Willpower is not a superpower.”
Featured speakers:
- Opening Speaker: Dr. Anil Mangla, Director of Disease Surveillance and Control, Southern Nevada Health District
- Headline Speaker: Sara Thompson, Director of Training and Communications, The Montana Institute
- Additional speakers and facilitators include subject matter experts from the Southern Nevada Health District, University of Nevada, Las Vegas, and University of Nevada, Reno.
More information on the summit is available at Substance Misuse and Overdose Prevention Summit.
Note: Emma Rodriguez will be the onsite media contact at this event. She can be reached at rodrigueze@SNHD.org or (702) 283-3887.
The Southern Nevada Health District serves as the local public health authority for Clark County, Boulder City, Henderson, Las Vegas, Mesquite and North Las Vegas. The agency safeguards the public health of the community’s residents and visitors through innovative programs, regulations, and initiatives focused on protecting and promoting their health and well-being. More information about the Health District, its programs, services, and the regulatory oversight it provides is available at www.SNHD.info. Follow the Health District on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.