Nearly 10,000 people have heard junior communications major Becky Bowman tell the story of the drunk-driving crash that killed her mother and best friend when she was just 14. Becky, the only survivor of the crash, titles her alcohol awareness program “Walk Away.” The presentation is now part of orientation for all entering freshmen at Roger Williams. And Bowman continues to take her talk to other schools throughout New England.

Following the terrible wreck, grief and rage engulfed Becky—until one day a friend reminded her how lucky she was to have walked away. Realizing that her friend was right, Becky decided to tell others about her experience and warn them about the risks of drinking. In addition to all Roger Williams freshmen, Becky recently presented “Walk Away” to ninth and tenth graders at Barrington High School in Barrington, R.I.

"What began as a simple cautionary lecture about alcohol abuse has grown into a powerful multimedia presentation."

What began as a simple cautionary lecture about alcohol abuse, the presentation—with the help of Donna Darmody, the University’s health and wellness coordinator—has grown into a powerful multimedia presentation.

And “Walk Away” is just one of the many contributions Becky makes to the University community. In the summer of 2006, she served as an orientation adviser, introducing new students to the Roger Williams campus. And last fall, Becky coordinated the Weeks of Welcome events, a series of programs to celebrate the new academic year.