Growing up, their son was an altar boy, a volunteer with handicapped kids, an Eagle Scout and a college student on a scholarship. That all changed when Greg was 21 and had his first psychotic break. Since then, his parents have managed their grief and anger over Florida’s lacking mental health care system by speaking out and fighting for change. Now in their late 70s, even as they continue to speak out, they worry what’s next for them and their adult son.
Guests:
- Richard and Kathleen Marquis, parents and mental health advocates.
Then, as CEO of 904Ward, Dr. Kimberly Allen has led tough conversations about race, equity and the systems that shape Jacksonville. But Dr. Allen’s mission is rooted in lived experience, from the lessons she learned in middle school to the racism her own children now experience. In this excerpt of the new WJCT podcast, Kingpins and Catalysts, Allen tells host Anne Schindler about the defining moments that shaped her, the power of storytelling and why she believes real change takes time, patience and an open door — even for those who initially walk away.
Guest:
- Kimberly Allen, CEO at 904Ward.
And, local high school students represent for academic excellence. Ponte Vedra High School champs “Shooting for the Stars” followed up their victory at the 20th Annual Admiral Jonathan T. Howe Academic WorldQuest Competition in Jacksonville last February with a standout performance at the National Academic WorldQuest Competition in Washington, D.C., organized by the World Affairs Councils of America. “Shooting for the Stars” placed fifth in the national competition April 28, competing against 128 students from 32 teams across the United States.
Guests:
- Star Binyamin, 11th grader at Ponte Vedra High School.
- Aidan Killian, 11th grader at Ponte Vedra High School.
- Arianna Rahmathulla, 12th grader at Ponte Vedra High School.
- Ella York, 12th grader at Ponte Vedra High School.
