Cheryl Chandler accepts VT Prevention Certification Board position

ST. JOHNSBURY, VT (August 18, 2020) – Northeastern Vermont Regional Hospital (NVRH) Regional Prevention Partnership Coordinator Cheryl Chandler has accepted to serve as a board member for the Vermont Prevention Certification Board. The Vermont Prevention Certification Board, in collaboration with the Vermont Department of Health’s Division of Alcohol & Drug Abuse Programs (ADAP Division) and the Center for Health and Learning (CHL), is a new initiative aimed to strength prevention work throughout the state.

The mission of the Vermont Prevention Certification Board will be to help ensure that prevention services in Vermont are provided in an appropriate, ethical manner utilizing best practices. Prevention Certification will require demonstration of competency through a rigorous credentialing and examination process that promotes personal and professional growth, increased recognition and professionalism of the field.

“I am honored to serve as a board member for such an important purpose,” Chandler said. “I plan to pursue certification myself as soon as the guidelines have been established.”

Board member responsibilities will include reviewing and approving board by-laws, governance structure, policies and procedures; reviewing and approving individual certification applications; issuing initial certifications and recertification and reviewing and approving Continuing Education Units for certified prevention specialists for trainings and other events.

“Cheryl was asked to be part of the inaugural Board because she has extensive experience in substance use prevention both here in Vermont and in Connecticut,” Senior Program Specialist with the Center for Health and Learning Beth Shrader said. “She is well respected by her peers in prevention and brings to the Board a great deal of knowledge about professional development.”

The Vermont Prevention Certification Board will provide individuals with the guidance needed to successfully attain and maintain their Prevention Specialist certification.