As the opioid crisis continues to affect communities nationwide, Emergent BioSolutions is doubling down on its efforts to raise awareness and expand access to life-saving naloxone. In recognition of International Overdose Awareness Day (August 31), the Gaithersburg-based company announced the re-launch of its Ready to Rescue public education campaign, focused this year on reaching young adults across U.S. college campuses.
At the heart of the campaign are two familiar faces: Pro Football Hall of Famer Emmitt Smith and Release Recovery founder and CEO Zac Clark, who will join forces to visit campuses and lead conversations about opioid emergency preparedness. Together, they aim to break down stigma, highlight the link between mental health and substance use, and empower students with the tools—and confidence—to respond in the event of an opioid overdose.
“Opioid emergencies can happen to anyone, anywhere, at any time,” said Clark, who has publicly shared his own recovery journey. “Every conversation is an important step in changing the course of the epidemic, and ultimately, saving lives.”
Taking the Message to Campus Communities
The Ready to Rescue campaign is designed to meet students where they are—through partnerships with Greek Life organizations, wellness services, and athletic departments. Events this fall will include tailgate activations near Chicago and educational programs in Dallas, Baton Rouge, and Detroit/Ann Arbor. Students who attend will receive “Ready to Rescue kits,” including resources on how to recognize the signs of an overdose and demonstrations on the use of NARCAN® Nasal Spray, which can reverse the effects of an opioid poisoning.
The timing is critical: while CDC data shows overdose deaths declined slightly in 2024, recent analysis from Mental Health America highlights that progress has been uneven, with states like Texas, Illinois, Louisiana, and Michigan in greater need of improved prevention and response strategies.
Expanding Through Campus Partnerships
Emergent is also extending its reach through a new sponsorship of Mobilize Recovery’s Campus Surge, which brings prevention education, harm reduction tools, and recovery support to higher education institutions across the country. The goal: equip students with actionable knowledge and resources at the start of the academic year, when stressors and risks may be heightened.
Despite being the age group most affected by opioid misuse (ages 18–25), studies show that fewer than 15% of college students know how to administer naloxone. By aligning with both national initiatives and local campus efforts, Emergent hopes to change that.
“On International Overdose Awareness Day and every day, Emergent honors the countless lives lost from opioid overdoses,” said Paul Williams, senior vice president at Emergent. “Our mission is to protect and save lives—and that means making sure more people have the awareness and tools to act quickly in an emergency.”
Recognizing the Signs, Saving Lives
The company stresses that recognizing the signs of an opioid overdose—such as slowed breathing, pinpoint pupils, and clammy skin—and acting without delay can mean the difference between life and death. The campaign emphasizes the simple “Lay, Spray, Stay” method for administering naloxone, paired with calling emergency medical services.
With fentanyl and other synthetic opioids fueling ongoing risk, the call to action is clear: equip young adults with the resources to intervene, support one another, and build communities of care.
For additional education and resources, visit ReadytoRescue.com.
