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Message from the Executive Director

IAODAPCA Spring Conference Wrap Up

Bill Johnson, Then and Now

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Bill Johnson Then and Now
By Jessica Hayes, IAODAPCA Assistant Director

A reception honoring Bill Johnson, Executive Director of IAODAPCA was held during the Spring Conference in Itasca, IL. The theme of the reception was “Then and Now” with friends, family and past presidents of the IAODAPCA board of directors standing at the microphone to give praise, admiration and a few anecdotal quips. A memory book, created by Valerie Arnett, was presented to Bill at the reception. This book was filled with pictures from childhood to adulthood and letters from those who have worked with him in the field. Those involved in the planning of the reception were able to keep some very special attendees a surprise, which is not an easy task for those who know Bill. What a wonderful memory all those who witnessed will forever have as Bill turned to see his daughter, Beth and son, Richard, with their children, walk into the reception hall! In that moment he was not the Executive Director of an agency that has over 9900 credentialed members, he was not the champion for many in recovery, he was not the man who travels all over the state, the nation and internationally to bring awareness to the field of addictions, and he certainly was not the man who spends countless hours researching the next best step for the field of addictions. He was, instead, a father and a grandfather looking at those who came to him with open arms to congratulate him on his many accomplishments. His daughter, Beth, spoke of her dad and to her dad as an adult child of an alcoholic parent. She recounted both the good and not-so-good times and thanked her dad for the healing that has taken place. When it was finally Bill’s turn to speak a hush came over the room as he turned to his family and remarked “There’s more healing to do” and humbly thanked them and all those in attendance for their support.

Reception Photos

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