Erin Ryan is a Senior Prevention Specialist with over 20 years of experience dedicated to supporting youth development. Passionate about empowering young individuals to become confident, resilient, and informed decision-makers, Erin is committed to equipping students with the knowledge, skills, and resources they need to make healthy, positive choices. In her current role at Prevention Academy, Erin leads educational initiatives focused on substance use prevention, emotional wellness, and effective decision-making. She specializes in delivering evidence-based programming that helps students identify risk and protective factors, strengthen refusal skills, and build connections with trusted adults. Erin collaborates closely with educators and fellow prevention specialists to create engaging, age-appropriate learning experiences that resonate with today’s youth. Before transitioning into the field of prevention, Erin spent two decades as a music educator, mentoring hundreds of students through private lessons and ensemble coaching. A passionate cellist since the age of three, Erin's early experiences in music shaped her belief in the transformative power of creative expression. Her time in music education also instilled in her the importance of listening, empathy, and encouragement—principles she continues to apply in every classroom and interaction with young people. Above all, Erin believes in meeting students where they are, providing a supportive environment that blends understanding, structure, and genuine connection. For her, working with youth is not just a profession; it is a calling.
