The South Dakota Association of Healthcare Organizations (SDAHO) is pleased to announce that Dr. Melissa “Mo” Dittberner will be a featured speaker at SDAHO’s Annual Convention, taking place September 24-26, 2025, at the Sioux Falls Convention Center.
Recovering Out Loud: Breaking Stigma and Saving Lives
In a powerful and personal session titled “Recovering Out Loud: Breaking Stigma and Saving Lives,” Dr. Dittberner will share her lived experience as a person in long-term recovery, tracing her journey from addiction to advocacy. Through compelling storytelling and evidence-informed strategies, Dr. Mo will explore the profound impact of stigma on individuals with substance use disorders. She will offer practical tools for shifting language, perceptions, and community responses to foster a more supportive environment.
The session will also highlight critical overdose prevention approaches, including harm reduction practices and the vital role of peer support in saving lives. This talk serves as both an invitation and a call to action for healthcare professionals and community members alike to become champions of recovery and compassion.
About Dr. Melissa “Mo” Dittberner
Dr. Melissa Dittberner is an Associate Professor of Practice at the University of South Dakota. She is a highly organized, goal-oriented, and passionate individual dedicated to making a difference. With over seven years of teaching and research experience in higher education, Dr. Dittberner brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise.
She is a team player with over 11 years of experience and leadership in harm reduction, prevention, grassroots nonprofit work, and grant evaluation. Her mission is to empower individuals to help themselves.
Dr. Dittberner is particularly passionate about drug and alcohol prevention, helping skills, and telehealth technology. She enjoys teaching and learning about cognitive approaches to educational psychology.
You can learn more about Dr. Melissa “Mo” Dittberner by visiting her University of South Dakota profile.
View Dr. Dittberner’s personal welcome message for SDAHO Convention attendees!
