Lipscomb’s Leading Edge will host Robert Hackenson Jr. for “Sober Thoughts,” a program designed to entertain students and also educate about the dangers of drugs and alcohol.
The show, which involves magic and hypnosis, will be held on Wednesday, September 7th in Shamblin Theatre. The festivities are scheduled to begin at 7 p.m.
“The world is constantly delivering a message about alcohol and drug use which conflict with the expectations we have for our students at Lipscomb,” Sam Smith said, the Dean of Student Life and the sponsor of the Leading Edge. “I am thrilled to support the Leading Edge in their effort to address the topic of making smart choices with their peers.”
Hackenson and his team have been traveling across the country since 2004 to spread positive messages to schools, colleges and other organizations through the use of entertainment. Hackenson’s website describes his shows as “a highly interactive and engaging way to deliver important messages to audiences in a brilliant and memorable fashion.”
“I’m really excited to see how Hackenson links magic and hypnosis to making wise decisions,” Rachel Heronimus, a sophomore member of the Leading Edge, said. “We see this as fun event that can positively impact our peers.”
Sophomore Leading Edge member Collin Vasseur echoed Heronimus’ sentiments.
“I think it’s important that students reflect on making wise decisions, especially at the beginning of the school year,” Vasseur noted. “It’s also going to be an entertaining evening.”
The Leading Edge was established in the fall of 2014 as a student-led group that seeks opportunities to change Lipscomb’s campus. Smith said he saw the need for such a group and has seen its development first-hand.
“The Leading Edge is quickly earning a reputation on campus for their boldness in addressing tough issues,” Smith said. “The Sober Thoughts event is just the latest example of the lengths they will go to in order to make a difference on Lipscomb’s campus.”
Events that the group has hosted in the past include: a Halloween get-together, a Christmas devotional and a Human Trafficking Awareness Day. The Leading Edge also hosts an annual Sexual Assault Awareness Day during the spring semester.
Other members of the group include: juniors Caleb Heronimus, Rachael Clark, Delaney Gilbert and Bria Harris and sophomores Leslie Garcia, Peggy Miller, Brandon Moon, Anna McCain and Steven Kleinschmidt.