WVFF Launches “New Horizons” Committee to Advance Research and Innovation in Opioid Crisis Response

WEST VIRGINIA (March 27, 2025) – West Virginia First Foundation (WVFF) is proud to announce the creation of the New Horizons Committee, a newly formed working group dedicated to promoting research and innovation in addressing the opioid crisis. 

At the Foundation’s March board meeting last week, the creation of the New Horizons Committee was announced. Chairman Matthew Harvey met his personal goal to establish the committee’s membership by the following Monday, announcing that the committee will be chaired by Alys Smith, with members Matthew Harvey, Dr. Matthew Christiansen, Jon Dower, and Dr. Steven Corder. They will meet on an as-needed basis to explore emerging strategies, best practices, and bold ideas that can shape the future of prevention, treatment, and recovery.

“The opioid crisis demands bold thinking and decisive action,” said Alys Smith, Committee Chair. “The New Horizons Committee is committed to exploring transformative approaches that empower individuals and communities. We’ll be looking across disciplines, across borders, and into the future to help ensure West Virginia leads the way in addressing this epidemic.”

WVFF Chairman Matthew Harvey, who initiated the committee’s formation, said, “When we started the Foundation, we wanted to create space for new ideas to take root. This committee is a step in that direction. It reflects our vision to be a think tank for practical, evidence-based solutions that meet the real needs of West Virginians. I believe this team will help us find new ways to make a real difference.”

For more information, visit www.wvfirst.org.