Conway’s Addiction and Recovery Lecture Series Concludes

News Summary

The Addiction and Recovery Lecture Series in Conway, SC, marks its end with a final lecture by Professor Casey King on February 27, 2025. After 18 impactful years, the series has transformed local perceptions of addiction, featuring stories from notable speakers and fostering community support. King, celebrating two decades of sobriety, reflects on the series’ significant influence and prepares for retirement while continuing to advocate for recovery.

Conway Bids Farewell to Beloved Lecture Series on Addiction and Recovery

Conway, South Carolina, is gearing up for a heartfelt event as the prestigious Addiction and Recovery Lecture Series at Horry Georgetown Technical College (HGTC) reaches its climactic conclusion on February 27, 2025. After a remarkable 18 years of dedication, the series founder, Professor Casey King, will deliver his final lecture, marking the end of a significant chapter in both his life and the lives of many in the community.

Final Chapter at the Burroughs and Chapin Auditorium

Mark your calendars for 7 p.m. when the doors of the Burroughs and Chapin Auditorium swing open for this last memorable gathering. This isn’t just a lecture; it’s a celebration of years of hard work, resilience, and the profound impact the series has had on countless lives. King has invited a host of notable speakers—from actors to athletes and chefs to musicians—each sharing their own tales of struggle and triumph over addiction, effectively opening up dialogues that mattered. This is not just about saying goodbye, but also about recognizing how far we’ve come.

Spotlight on Notable Speakers

Throughout the years, the series has welcomed big names who have made waves in the entertainment world and beyond. Think about Craig T. Nelson, Meredith Baxter, Mackenzie Phillips, Louis Gosset Jr., and Danny Trejo, all of whom graced the stage and shared their deeply personal journeys. Their stories did more than just captivate an audience; they sent a clear message that addiction does not discriminate and recovery is attainable.

Fighting Stigma, One Lecture at a Time

Casey King initiated this lecture series with a simple yet powerful aim: to break the stigma surrounding addiction and provide a foundation of education and support for those in recovery. As he prepares to deliver his final address, he plans to reflect on the series’ impactful moments and share his personal journey of recovery for the first time—a story that promises to resonate deeply with attendees.

A Journey of Transformation

At 62 years young, King has accomplished a monumental achievement—celebrating 20 years of sobriety this past September. His journey with addiction began as early as age 7, suffering through a life marked by challenges, including childhood adversity and substance abuse during his younger years. By adhering to routine and building a robust support network, he found a path to recovery that many can aspire to.

A Legacy of Learning

Since 1997, King has also been enriching the minds of students at HGTC, teaching subjects like physics, astronomy, and math. He’s always credited the college as a supportive backdrop that helped him transition into life as a dedicated single parent. The impact of his work has not gone unnoticed. HGTC President Dr. Marilyn “Murph” Fore has commended him for his unwavering commitment to education and the advocacy of recovery.

What’s Next for King?

Although King is set to retire on June 30, he is not stepping back from the cause he has championed for so long. With plans to travel with his wife, thanks to their daughter’s career as a flight attendant, King remains committed to using his personal experiences to provide support for those facing similar struggles. It’s a promise to keep championing recovery long after he steps away from the lectern.

A Record of Impact

The Addiction and Recovery Lecture Series has significantly shifted how society perceives addiction—transitioning the conversation from viewing it as a moral failing to recognizing it as a legitimate health issue. Notably, Trejo’s appearance set a record, attracting an incredible 750 attendees—the highest turnout in the series’ history.

A Heartfelt Farewell

As Casey King prepares for his farewell lecture, he looks to express heartfelt gratitude toward everyone who played a role in the series’ success. From volunteers to attendees, it’s been a community effort that transformed countless lives. Conway is not just saying goodbye to a lecture series; it’s celebrating a legacy of hope, understanding, and recovery.

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Additional Resources

• My Horry News: Founder Professor to be Closing Act of HGTC Addiction and Recovery Lecture Series
• WMBF News: HGTC’s Addiction Recovery Lectures Begin Thursday with Comedian Tom Arnold
• Post and Courier: Tom Arnold Talks Recovery at Horry Georgetown Technical College
• Wikipedia
• Google Search: Addiction and Recovery