Chris Herren, a beloved Fresno State alumnus and NBA player, is set to return to the campus where he became a household name among college basketball fans in the late 1990s. This time, however, his visit will focus on life off the court, as he shares his powerful story of addiction and recovery. His talk, titled 'The First Day', will take place at 6 p.m. on Thursday, February 19, at The Ruiz Ballroom inside the Resnick Student Union at Fresno State. Since August 1, 2008, the day he began his recovery, Herren has become a nationally renowned speaker, sharing his story with youth, adults, and athletes across the United States. His message challenges audiences to rethink the conversation around addiction and encourages individuals to seek help and support. Herren founded the Herren Project, a nonprofit addiction recovery organization, in 2011 to provide free resources and support for those in need. Through the organization, he and his team empower schools and communities to make healthy choices, while also guiding families through recovery. In 2018, he also founded Herren Wellness, a residential health and wellness program that helps guests lead healthy, substance-free lives. Herren's story was featured in the Emmy-nominated ESPN Films '30 for 30' documentary 'Unguarded'. Originally from Fall River, Massachusetts, Herren came to Fresno State in 1995 after a short stint at Boston College. He was featured in a Sports Illustrated spread as one of the top prospects in the nation. After sitting out his first season due to transfer rules, he starred for the Bulldogs for three years, helping the team to 20-plus wins each season and leading the team in scoring as a sophomore and junior. His visit is being hosted by Fresno State Student Involvement, the Fresno State Alumni Association, the Student Health and Counseling Center, and Associated Students, Inc. Free pizza will be provided for current Fresno State students, while supplies last, as well as resources for students to learn more about safety and wellness. For questions or media accommodations, contact Amy Allen, associate dean of Student Involvement, at aallen@mail.fresnostate.edu or 559.278.6034, or Student Involvement at 559.278.2741 or getinvolved@csufresno.edu.
