Herren Project Strengthens Prevention Work with Promotion of Naomi DeSantis, CPS

PORTSMOUTH, R.I. – October 5, 2026

Herren Project is proud to announce the promotion of Naomi DeSantis, CPS, from Prevention Education Coordinator to Prevention Specialist, following her achievement of the Certified Prevention Specialist credential.

DeSantis earned the credential through the Rhode Island Certification Board, completing the education, training, and professional requirements for certification. Her achievement marks an important milestone not only in her professional development, but also in Herren Project’s continued investment in strengthening its prevention expertise and expanding its work with young people, schools, families, and communities. Her certification was made possible in part through grant funding that supports workforce development and professional growth.

“Naomi has grown tremendously in her knowledge and leadership within prevention, and earning this credential reflects the commitment she has made to this work. As Herren Project’s prevention programming continues to grow, having a credentialed prevention professional on our team strengthens our ability to develop thoughtful, evidence-informed programming and build meaningful partnerships with schools and communities. We are incredibly proud of Naomi and excited to see her step into this expanded role.”

– Tricia Mansfield, Senior Director of Prevention and Strategic Partnerships, Herren Project

As Prevention Specialist, DeSantis will take on greater responsibility for developing and growing Herren Project’s youth prevention initiatives nationwide. Her work will include leading and expanding Herren Project Clubs, strengthening relationships with schools and youth-serving organizations, supporting Youth Ambassadors, helping evaluate program impact, identifying community prevention needs, and advancing evidence-informed prevention strategies.

The role will also position DeSantis as a subject-matter resource in addiction prevention and education while supporting Herren Project’s broader efforts to strengthen protective factors, build resilience, and provide young people with the skills and connections that support healthy decision-making.

“I am incredibly grateful to Herren Project and our grant partners for providing me with the opportunity and funding to pursue my Certified Prevention Specialist credential. Because of this opportunity, I strengthened my knowledge and skills and can make an even greater impact through the work I do alongside my team at Herren Project. I look forward to connecting with our communities and continuing to make a lasting difference through prevention education.”

– Naomi DeSantis, CPS

Herren Project’s youth prevention programming focuses on building resilience and strengthening the skills, relationships, and protective factors that help prevent substance misuse. Through Herren Project Clubs, Youth Ambassadors, Mental Health First Aid training, school and community education, and other prevention initiatives, the organization works alongside young people and trusted adults to create healthier, more connected communities.

About Herren Project

Herren Project is a national nonprofit organization that helps individuals and families live healthy, fulfilling lives by preventing substance misuse, celebrating recovery, and creating resilient communities. Through prevention education, recovery services, family support, and community-based programming, Herren Project provides resources and connection at no cost to individuals and families across the country.

For more information, visit herrenproject.org.