What PARENTS are saying about the impact Susie makes:

"I attended (LEGACY OF HOPE) with my husband. We found your message powerful and inspirational. My husband was also impressed and he finally 'gets it!'  For many years I have had numerous conversations regarding parenting with him and he finally understands through your messages that parenting & awareness are key!!! Thank you!" 

"My daughter, a freshman, retold your stories to me ... in amazing detail. She was deeply moved by your presentation to the students. She said that it made these issues real to her, not just an adult saying "don't do this."

"The timing of your presentation was a God-send. She is learning at the speed of light as teens do, and every moment we can grab with them, to love them and communicate with them is precious.

"Thank you for your gift to our community ... and to my family ... how blessed I felt to sit next to her and listen to her as she shared your truths. That's pretty wonderful."

What School Administrators are saying about Susie:

"Susie was the best staff development speaker that we have ever had!"
"She kept us on the edge of our seats, she was great!"
"Your presentation put the spotlight on the heart of the (diversity) issue."

City of Santa Clarita 'Teen Scene Unplugged' Parent-Teen Community Program
"Susie's 8 different characters are on the cutting edge of (prevention) information!"

New York Counseling Association, Bonnie McCaig, Convention Coordinator
"Susie is a conference coordinator's dream come true! She made our convention a resounding success!!!"

Director of Nursing, Riverside Community College:

"You are amazing to be able to perform and keep that crowd under control! Though kids sure don’t have the manners that they used to - you got through loud and clear! I was particularly impressed with your ability to elicit and discuss FEELINGS."

Adult Conference Attendee, Georgia 4H:

"The best and most realistic program I have ever seen at any state or national conference in over 30 years of professional work!"
Community-Parent Program, Plattsburgh, New York, parent:
"Thank you so much for your no-nonsense, straight to the point, psychologically sound, caring and thoroughly entertaining and moving performance! Your program has jump started many new people into action!"

Student Attendee, Wisconsin-UM Key Club Conference, Fifteen year old girl:

"Legacy Of Hope^® and your stress workshop literally transformed my life. You truly show other people the face of God, and probably have saved many lives."

LASTING IMPACT!

"I met you ten years ago. I saw your performance in high school. I remember sharing my fears with you.

"THANK YOU FOR INSPIRING ME!" I currently work for Orange County Probation. You influenced my life and I know there are many others that feel the same."
PROFESSIONAL OPINION: Psychotherapist and High School SAP (Student Assistance)

"YOU ARE AWESOME!!! I've been to many training's and seen several motivational speakers, but when I saw you...I kept thinking, 'Wow, I'd love to have the kids at my high school hear her,' then even more so I thought, 'I wish the teachers and parents could hear this.' Please KEEP DOING WHAT YOU ARE DOING!"

St. Matthews United Methodist Church, Pastor:

"What a positive experience this was for our church. A win/win - Church/Community/School partnership - a difference in the lives of our kids and increase in visibility for our church. . . it had a tremendous impact on both youth and their parents."

Inspired Audiences said:

"If you can face audience after audience candidly revealing your life, it shows me that I no longer need to “hide” my secrets and my shame.”
"Seeing you has inspired me to take better care of myself."

Top of Page

American Counseling Association, Branch Leadership Workshop, comments from the audience: "Legacy Of Hope^® was absolutely outstanding!!" "one of the best presentations ACA has had...worth more than 1,000 business meetings! Associate Executive Director for Professional Affairs, Carol A. Neiman, workshop planner: "Can't do any better than these appreciative comments!"

American Counseling Association, Western Region, Chair, Dr. Neva C. Owens: one of the most relevant, most impactful and meaningful offerings I have yet to witness."

California Association of Hospitals and Health Systems, Chairman of the Director's Coordinating Council, Dir. of Volunteer Services, Mary Elizabeth Jones: "the audience (was left) spellbound! World-class speaker to youngsters and oldsters alike." Evaluations said: WOW! Incredible! BEST EVER! Susie was the highlight of the convention!" Conference Highlight

California Crime Prevention Officers Association, Jan Sener, State President : A perfect fit to our program. The standing ovation you received was well deserved and reflects the impact you had on our attendees. A sure winner for their conference." Conference Winner

Washington Counseling Association, President, Dr. Dan Windisch: "In the 11 years I have attended our state conference there has never been a keynoter who received better evaluations, moved the audience more, or who received a standing ovation. Susie really cared to support our profession and its challenges in the schools and agencies. I also had her present her 3-hour "HEAL THE HEALER program of interaction, spiritual uplift, and deep relaxation."

Florida Counseling Association, Shelly Hollingsworth, F.C.A. Convention Coordinator: "So easy to work with, so tolerant of last minute changes, so willing to spend time with our delegates assisting them in tackling their own personal challenges. You're the best!"
"The real winners were those who also attended your breakout session - only positive feedback from my peers.
"It was so very nice to be stopped in the lobby to be thanked for bringing you to our event!" THANKS from Conference Attendees

Teen Dating Violence Conference, Women’s Transitional Living Center, Director, Judith Ann Bambis, M.S.: "All eyes in the room were riveted. The obvious choice to open a teen conference during Domestic Violence Awareness Month. Her ability to reach an audience are awe-inspiring. Susie is genuine, approachable, warm, a bundle of energy, and extraordinarily committed to her mission of Hope." Effective Violence Prevention

National Association of Social Workers, Coordinator, 1999 Addiction Institute, Clarie Fleming, CSW, CASAC, CEAP, BCD, SAP: "A very powerful performance, audience found extremely inspiring."

Georgia 4-H Conference, Camping & Outdoor Programs, Univeristy o f Georgia, State Specialist, Jeff Sallee: "I can't begin to tell you how many positive comments I received. Our leaders tell me, 'That was just what our kids needed!' Most common statement: 'I have never seen that many 4-H'ers (900) so attentive for so long!' ...I appreciate you 'sticking around', available to those youth who wanted to share their feelings and personal situations.
It is an exceptional speaker who will follow up and follow through...you made a profound impact."

Ex-California State Governor Pete Wilson: "The time, talent and energy you have committed to helping at-risk children reach their full potential represents the most admirable kind of civic and humanitarian spirit. Legacy Of Hope^® recreates scenarios that young people are often faced with and offers approaches to better handle challenging situations."

LOS ANGELES TIMES, Jerry Hicks: "She is terrific. Try performing solo for an audience of young people in a continuation school who find skepticism easy.
Her overall message is upbeat, that they can overcome difficulties if they find positive
outlets for their emotions. She understood the upheaval in their lives."

Future Homemakers of America, Betty Ford, National & Regional Meetings Manager: "On behalf of over 10,600 students and adults. . . super job. overwhelming response and standing ovations! De-Stress for Success™ was a huge success! Your sincerity, generosity and spirit are not limited to stage but a part of your life." "Thanks for motivating my students in such an inspirational way!" Georgia FCCLA Advisor

Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD Rhode Island), Gabrielle Abbate, Asst. Executive Director: "you "touched" everyone at TeamSpirit, adults and youth. I've been receiving e-mail, mail, cards, and phone calls from students and their parents who are in awe of what took place...Your sincere nature and ability to gain the trust of two diverse generations speaks highly of the effort you put into life..my highest praise." Trusted by Youth and Adults

MADD, Michigan, Youth Issues Coordinator, Shannon R. Garrison: "Susie gives a great show. She takes the time beforehand to talk with the coordinator and get to know her audience and setting. I recommend Susie to any high school or conference, with confidence that they too would be extremely satisfied" Conference Coordinator extremely satisfied

Shepherd of the Hills United Methodist, Church Senior Pastor, Dr. Julius Del Pino: "Because of your keen sensitivity and commitment to justice in the American family, I am convinced that every community of faith would benefit from you wisdom, experience, and knowledge."

Carolinas District KEY Club Conference, District Administrator, J.Scott Johnson: "The response was phenomenal! Your workshops were by far the best attended. A big part of our conventions success." BLUEPRINT (Key Club Newsletter): "A startlingly sincere performance that set the stage for a fantastic convention."

CITY OF LA PALMA, Council Member, Chair of Red Ribbon Week, Lauree Aragona: "Previous programs were not reaching kids at risk. A new approach (in) Legacy Of Hope^® gave a golden opportunity to make a difference. (You) captured the junior and senior high school students, helping them realize they have choices. Over 200 students sought your help after the assemblies. Goals were achieved!"

CNN News, San Bernardino, Executive Producer, Lacey A. Kendall: "Most rewarding to 'discover' such an inspirational hero as is Susie Vanderlip!"

Top of Page

Colorado, Lake County School District R-1, , Special Programs Coordinator, Nancy T. Bell: "Our goal was to galvanize the students into action, to change the attitudes and statistics: 75% of students have access to drugs and alcohol; 50% were regularly using. We were hoping Susie would initiate participation in discussion and peer counseling groups. The results far exceeded our expectations. Susie made a big difference in our community... such a positive intensity, physically, emotionally and spiritually." Specific Results

Texas, Georgetown School District, Social Issues Coordinator, Tamara Marie Coomer: "An extremely high caliber performer and speaker. . . highly professional, passionate, and knowledgeable. Many high school parents informed me her assembly was first school event their child has told them about in years." Parent Reaction

Idaho, COSAC Chairperson, Sharon Frost: "Susie was eagerly accepted by 7th to 12th graders in farming, rodeo and rural communities. Our Hispanic junior high boys attended and participated [in jazz dance workshop, impressed by her and her presentation." Rural Community

Top of Page

High Schools

Arkansas, Middle School - TEACHER – 2002
"Response has been awesome!!!! Kids have been flooding my office telling me "I felt like she was talking to me." or "I could relate to everyone of those characters." Another student woke up at 4:00 a.m. with a kid on his mind and asked me if he could talk to him because the kid had mentioned suicide. They talked for about an hour--peer helper already. It was definitely a success!" Reached suicidal teen

Colorado, Smoky Hill High School, Student Leadership Advisor, Ron Hogan: "Susie lights up the stage. Student’s response was a real connection with Susie. She reaches us in ways no one else can. She is a warm and charismatic presenter, easy and delightful to work with." About Susie

Georgia, Lakeview – Fort Oglethorpe High School, Counselor, Ray Cox: "Without a doubt the best program we have had. This program should be required in the high school curriculum." Best Ever

Indiana, Merrillville Community Schools, Coordinator, Jerrold Kasarda: "One veteran teacher who does not often give compliments, stated: the best in all of his years of teaching. Over 250 students on the follow-up survey said that they would join a support group. ..impressed how many students talked with you about their unresolved feelings following the assembly. You gave them courage to confront their inadequacy, Hopelessness and anger. Our highest praise." Gave courage; inspired support group

Kansas, Liberal Senior High School, Guidance Counselor, Vivian Dirks: "Susie is one of the most influential ladies I've ever met. An impeccable performance that affects the lives of both adults and teens in a positive way. The highlight: she not only exposes problems, but offers solutions. Phenominal."

Tennessee, Northeast High School, FHA/Hero Advisor, Martha Kelsey: "Students truly could not stop talking about it. Never before seen such a unique and remarkable story acted out. Not only (held) attention of our whole student body, but moved them all to a standing ovation. Susie’s sincere interest in young people is communicated through her very touching and warm approach. I believe that this program is one of the best." Standing ovation

Colorado, Moffat County High School, Counselor/Dean, Andrew Young/Jim Loughran: "Refreshingly unique and energetic, grabbing student attention. Powerful and personal. Feedback was surprisingly positive and open. From responses, we were able to organize support groups for youth in need. Susie Vanderlip can help you make positive changes in the students’ attitudes and behaviors. . . one of the best choices for drug and alcohol prevention education." Best choice for prevention, make positive change

California, Valencia High School, Dean of Students, Lynn Parish: "Mesmerized our students for an entire hour. Never received as many positive comments from students and parents as I have following Legacy Of Hope^®." Most positive responses ever

Arkansas, Haines High School, Teacher, Joann Ross Cunningham: "An amazing assembly! The dancing was wonderful, the presenter so talented and touching, her message so right for the youth of our community."

California, Buena Park High School, Assistant Principal, Marv Abrams: "Masterfully portrayed and appreciated by even the "coolest" in the crowd. This is a spiffy, polished production, as practiced and perfected as a Broadway classic."

Massachusetts, Dighton-Rehoboth Regional High School, Counselor and MA Association of Peer Helpers Conference Chairperson, Corinne Pridham: "No discipline problems during the assemblies...a rare occurrence! I commend (Susie's) ability to capture such audiences! Obvious to all, (Susie) truly cares about kids--all kids. Your assembly (is) a strong message that reaches a diverse population." Reaches diverse population

California, Redlands High School, Peer Leader Advisor, Thais Kanold: "Teachers and two assistant principals wrote "thank you" notes to me for such an appropriate, creative event and for the thorough Teachers’ Guide Ms. Vanderlip provided. This kind of unsolicited, positive feedback is not the norm from teens and busy teachers...they sincerely (were) impressed." Unsolicited Teacher THANK YOU's!

Top of Page

Middle Schools

California, Stacey Intermediate School, Principal, Carol Hansen: "Hits home and keeps their attention like no other assembly presented in schools today! Students opened up like never before!

Colorado, Berry Creek Middle School, Guidance Counselor, Laurie Mooney: "I have worked with middle school students for 13 years. This was the most riveting presentation I have seen"

Pennsylvania, Govenor Mifflin School District, Richard C. Hampton: "Perfomed for 7th through 12th grades: students at all grades levels emotionally touched. A Guidance Counselor in our middle school stated, 'Without a doubt, the best presentation I have seen of this type.' Her follow-up with students motivated them to address and seek assistance for their problems." She left them with a sense of Hope.

California, Tropico Middle School, Assistant Principal, Ina Scott: "Susie's skill and understanding of this age group was evident...ability to refocus attention and to do so in a gracious and good-humored manner. She is generous in the time she devotes to individual students after the assembly... puts her message of Hope into action. undoubtedly one of the finest assemblies." About Susie

California, De Anza Junior High School, Lead Counselor, Jim Shinn: "My students (all of them) appreciated very much the style and content of the program... visual and performing arts (are) a wonderful medium. . . students very much liked the cultural sensitivity in (her) program. Our student population is 99% Latino.
Culturally sensitive

California, Alondra Intermediate School, Assistant Principal, Christopher Johnson: "Middle school students don't often sit still for an hour, but you captured our students attention. They became involved, asked insightful questions, appeared to relate to your message and have a great deal of interest in hearing more. They flocked around you through snack and lunch. They need positive role models. We have a multi-culturally diverse group of students, and your program appealed to them all. Your sincere caring and enjoyment of teens is apparent; and they respond in kind." Cross-cultural appeal

Top of Page

"Sends a GOOD MESSAGE!"

"I am 14. I was at the FCCLA State Convention. Your dancing was awesome, and I couldn't believe a GIRL could do moves like that, I thought only guys could pull off some of the stuff that you could! I was shocked!!! For one thing, you don't look over 35 at all...I just couldn't believe it!... your speaking, dancing, and acting abilities...WOW!!! I just think it's very important for you to know how much you've affected lives. THANK YOU SO MUCH!!!"

"A serious and important message . . .
& its not boring!

"I learned that whenever we have any kind of problems, we have to ask for help."

"I want you to know how touched I was. . . brought tears to my eyes.""

"You were real. You weren’t full of ----. You made a lot of sense."

"I still don’t know how a chic made us think she was a guy! Awesome."

"I really could believe that you were that person talking about your problems.
You put across good issues and facts that people should know about."

"I identified with the characters a lot because my father is an alcoholic and he doesn't know it yet. I am very thankful that I saw this. I now have an idea that my father has a disease."

"You have a lot of courage and heart. I think you should keep talking to people, it needs to be heard."

"You really made a difference in my life. I never thought in a million years that I would open up like I did. Thank you for helping me face the challenge."

"Great drama and an accurate portrayal of an alcoholic family!"

"Now I understand reality and love." Peer Helper

"Your program really showed that there are ways out and not to give up. Thank you so much." 8th Grader, Aberdeen, Idaho

"I have a dad that is a user and an alcoholic. I really related to the feelings you expressed. It's nice to know that someone cares." Alternative/continuation schoolstudent

"After watching LEGACY, it really made me think. Do you think I can stop drinking???"
(7th grade girl)

What Teens Learned 
12th Graders
"There are things you can do to solve your problems besides drugs & alcohol."
"There's help for anyone who has these problems. You're not the only person who feels that way. 
  There are always someone else who shares these problems, too."
"The effects of long-term drug and alcohol abuse."
"Drugs and alcohol can destroy a person's life even if they are not the one using the drugs."
"Many perspectives: cigarettes can cause sexual dysfunction, exercise keeps you looking young, there 
 are reasons why people make bad decisions."
"Knowledge of how the 'other half' lives and problems people face."
"That people can turn their lives around after bad choices; your choices affect those around you."
"Everyone has problems."
"You can help people if they have a problem."
"A good message that everyday people go through these problems and some can overcome their fear  
 and be better."
"I learned I am not alone when I need help, and even thought there are setbacks in life, one can come back and face those challenges."
"How important it is to handle emotions and how you can handle them."
"The importance of reaching out to others, emotional intelligence, and how real those problems are."
"Drugs and alcohol aren't worth it"
"You shouldn't take everything out on yourself"
"How to cope with certain situations the right way"
"You need people to talk to and get help for your problems"
"How important it is to help others"
"It opens your eyes and makes you think about a lot you are dealing with in your own life"
"Understanding of my thoughts and feelings about me"
"My family's drinking and drug use are not my fault"
"Drugs don't solve your problems/feelings"
"Be a good person"

11th Graders
"Stress is important and has to be dealt with"
"To have confidence in myself and others."
"These problems are real and bad things do happen to good people"
"We should help people no matter what"
"These things happen in small towns (like ours) and not just big cities"
"Don't take things for granted; they could be worse"
"Don't think that it is your fault that your parents are alcoholics"
"Don't hide feelings; get help"
"That the most important person to love is yourself"

10th Graders
"Drugs are bad"
"Dancing keep you healthy"
"It is important to share emotion"
"How to deal with different problems"
"All the things people can do that harms others and not even know they're doing it"
"A lot of interesting thoughts"
"How to deal with your emotions"
"Don't get in a gang"
"Life is a challenge"
"Drugs and alcohol aren't worth it"
"Better to deal with emotions than to hide them"
"A lot about life and struggles on the way through it"
"There are a lot of problems that can be helped"
"Drugs can ruin your life"
"You make your own decisions and that they affect your life and others"
"Other people's actions aren't your fault"
"Smoking is the drug that causes the most death"
"A lot of good info"
"We have many emotions"

9th Graders
"When people get depressed or are not loved by their family, they can make mistakes they will regret 
 in the future. They don't think things through enough to make the right choice because they are 
 desperate to be loved."
"If people can't respect you who you are, then they are not your true friends or who you want to 
 be friends with"
"Don't do drugs"
"Your actions can hurt more than just you"
"There are students who go through problems because of parents and friends. Inside everyone is the  
 same, some just make the wrong choices in life"
"How to deal with friends that have problems"
"Just by listening, you can help a person"
"Drugs are bad"
"By helping one person, it makes a difference"
"That it's not always my fault"
"You are not responsible for your parent's drinking problem"
"When people use drugs, it may be all good until a couple years later it may kill you"
"What problems are out there"
"No matter how hard something is, you can get through it"
"Just cause you hang out with hard people, doesn't mean you're bad"
"Learned how kids get back up when they were harmed"
"Some people in gangs don't wanna be in them but they can't get out"
"These things affect kids all over the worl and "normal" kids all the time."
"A way to tell my sister the truth"
"It helped me realize I need help"
"There are people with much worse problems than you. Don't be afraid to express your feelings."
"Even the most unlikely people have problems."

8th Graders
"Do not use drugs!"
"There are other ways to deal with your emotions than drugs"
"You can turn your life around even if it seems hopeless"
"It's not my fault what my parents do"
"It showed what kids in America are dealing with today"
"Someone can act so happy on the outside but be hurting on the inside"
"That your emotions play a great roll in your choices"
"You shouldn't use drugs to get stress off"
"Life isn't perfect for most people"
"That just because you are stressed, don't attempt suicide"
"Even though time are rough, you just have to go on with your life"
"People who are stressed or bored can do bad things"
"Get help if you have a problem, tell people about your feelings"
"someone else may have it harder than you and you should help"
"Learned about emotional intelligence"
"You can have serious problems. If you use drugs, you may even die."
"There are always people to help you if you need it"
"You should tell somebody if somebody you know is drinking or doing drugs"
"Our feelings are some of the most important things"
"There are people who have the same problems as other people do from everywhere across the  
 country"
"Kids cortex grows until age 24, and kids recognize feelings better than adults"
"Not to do stupid things that will affect you the rest of your life"

7th Graders
"It's not your fault that someone else has problems"
"How to control your feelings and what causes these feelings"
"There are a lot more problems in this world than I thought"
"People can get through hard times"
"There are different attitudes for everything"
"The consequences of drug use"
"Make better choices"
"There are normal people out there with problems you may not know about"
"About ways people deal with their emotions and how it can hurt others"
"What not to do when you get older"
"Drugs are bad and so is drinking"
"A lot about our feelings"
"That people join gangs because they feel loneliness"
"That as you get older you tend to hold in your emotions"
"If you did something bad, you could still be a good person"
"What people have to deal with in their families"
"You can die from drugs"
"Some people have difficult lives and need to be treated better"
"How to treat your family and friends"

Top of Page

Parochial and Private Schools

California, Cornelia Connelly School of the Holy Christ Jesus, Director of Guidance, Laurie Rybaczyk: "Legacy Of Hope^® is indeed a prayer to the heart. Susie has the ability to be open and honest with the most difficult issues of her life. Students discover Hope and a way out of their pain.
Susie radiates the joy that prayers of the heart do get answered."

Virginia, Collegiate School, Activities Director, Lewis P. Lawson: "Every student agreed it was the best ...(LEGACY) captivated them; established ethos and credibility. The bonding made this normally skeptical audience receptive to your message, even to students previously not open." Opened up isolated students

Hawaii, Punahou School, Chaplain, Dr. John R. Heidel: "I've written many letters of recommendation before but, not a one has been more satisfying than this one. If you work with youth, you should provide them with Susie's thoughtful and Hopeful presentation. Susie's personal warmth, moral strength, and honesty really come through in these sessions. I'm convinced she reached more students in this creative program than would be possible by expert speaker or film." Satisfied Repeat Client

Michigan, Shrine High School, Counselor and Substance Abuse Coordinator, Mary L. Van Cleave MA: "Positive comments came from (religion classes) who had the additional privilege of Q & A with you. Your commitment to faith in a higher power makes your presentation particularly appropriate in the parochial setting."

California, Saint Joseph High School, Dean of Counseling, Karen Barnes: "(Student survey) responses were 100% positive. . . students recommended the program be brought back. (As a result of LEGACY), the counseling department was able to introduce the IMPACT program on our campus. Susie gave the students a real opportunity to find help." Catalyst to support program

Top of Page

Continuation Schools

Olympic High School, Principal, Marcie Miller: "Her sincerity and her important message linger and make such a difference for the way students see the world around them. . . a true gift.
I especially liked the way she dealt with the students who were less than polite. Her approach is particularly effective with students such as ours who need to hear it like it is." Dealt with difficult students

El Camino High School, Teacher, Sue Tisdall: "Staff were talking. . .your dance/drama was much more than communicating, it was a cultural awakening to our students. The response was exceptional. One of my students finally (after working with him for over a year) came to me asking for help in handling his drinking problem. What more can I say." Cultural Awakening

El Camino High School, Principal, Art A. Ponce: "Your performance and message will be a point of departure from which we will do much counseling with our students. I believe that you were able to open their minds for receiving help from us and other agencies. Many people will benefit from the fine work that you do." Opened minds

Hillview High School, Principal, Bob N. LaRue: "You had definitive, constructive suggestions and directions for students. I highly recommend your presentation for any public school and especially for students at risk."

Top of Page

Colleges and Universities

San Jose State University, Division of Intercollegiate Athletics, NCAA Wellness Coordinator, Ted Edwards:
"A creative artistry which separates it from the typical statistics-based lecture. I can easily recommend her for future NCAA Wellness Speaker Grants." Approved by NCAA

University of California, Riverside, Wellness Coordinator, Albert Haas: ". . . truly the highlight of our AIDS and Alcohol Awareness Week. . . unanimous praise. . . an outstanding, very talented and captivating performance. A well deserved A+ recommendation."

University of the Pacific, Health Educator Coordinator, Ticka Simon-Rossetto: "Excellent job of increasing students awareness and challenging their denial. The students and faculty were impressed, engaged and impacted . . . Susie has the ability to establish rapport, a very positive attitude, and ability to motivate others to reach their potential."

University of California, Los Angeles, Substance Abuse Prevention Advisory Council, UCLA Residential Life, Ronald A. Butler: "Outstanding performance . . . heightened awareness of the dangers from alcohol abuse and addiction, while speaking to the heart. She brought fresh insights into the impact that addiction and alcohol abuse has on relationships."

California State University San Marcos, Intercollegiate Drug and Alcohol Prevention Forum, Health Educator, Susan Mendes: "Moving and engaging while accurately addressing the effects of drug and alcohol abuse on the addict and family. . .very relevant. . . I would definitely recommend you to other colleges and universities."

Palomar College, Drug Prevention Programs, Coordinator, Beth Post: "Outstanding vehicle to introduce students to their studies on the dysfunctional family. . .gave the issues substance, clarity, and feelings. . . students will understand not only the psychology of addiction but the terrible toll they take on lives and families.
Many of my students related quite personally. That (Susie makes herself) available after the program to talk about personal circumstances is of great added value." Clarity, Personal Reactions

Top of Page

Corporations

Great Western Bank, Wellness & Work/Family Programs, Supervisor, Cindy S. Moskovic: "Legacy Of Hope^® made a deeper impression than any other seminar. Indeed, any corporate setting would greatly benefit from Legacy. The feedback from the audience participants was outstanding."
Benefit to Corporations

Top of Page

Comments on Susie Vanderlip's workshops and joint workshops
with partner & husband, Ken Vanderlip, Ph.D.

Both entertaining and effective. Our staff truly appreciated the experiential nature. Ken and Susie got the audience on their feet and participating actively and enthusiastically. Participants praised the practical information and that the exercises can easily work into a daily schedule. All left feeling energized and equipped.
Nancy Waite-O’Brien, Ph.D., Vice President, Clinical Services
Betty Ford Center

Teen Comments:

"Your yoga lessons to de-stress really work, I got 100 A+ on my test."
Sincerely middle school student , Paul Bell Middle School , Miami, FL

The best speaker I have ever seen! Susie Vanderlip is motivated and really speaks to the heart and spirit. Her strength marveled me. I’ve never related like that before!
Teens at Massachusetts Peer Helpers Assoc Conference

Adult Comments:

New York Counseling Association Conference Attendee evaluation comments - January, 2002

• One of the best workshops I have ever attended.
• A more human presence I can not imagine.
• A wonderful presentation and so helpful to me.
• She motivated me to take time for me!!
• The best workshop of the convention.
• I was completely relaxed after the session.
• Reminded me to take positive action in my life.
• Susie makes me feel great and rejuvenated!
• Recommend her to any group; she is wonderful!

Loved every bit of it! Relaxed me in a way I’ve never felt.
FCCLA Meetings Manager, Betty Ford

De-Stress was a huge success! Largest audience of any workshop! Many enjoyed this program of
interaction, spiritual uplift and deep relaxation.
Dr. Dan Windisch, President, Washington Counselors Association

Comments on Dr. Ken Vanderlip 's workshops

Dr. Vanderlip has an excellent ability to present information in a format participants can readily utilize. My professional staff has benefited greatly from his suggestions.
Cindy A. Shaw, PT,OCS,CPT,Owner
OrtHopedic and Spine Care Physical Therapy

We had great reviews from all our members. One member stated, "I wish I had met Ken years ago!"
Melisa Hansen, Membership Services Director
Newport Harbor Area Chamber of Commerce

Dr. Vanderlip is very empathetic and imbues a great deal of confidence in his ability to help. Impressed me with his expertise in stress management, chemical dependency, post traumatic stress disorders, anxiety, depression, grief and loss.
Ira Poll, Ph.D., Clinical Psychologist

I have sent business professionals to Dr. Vanderlip and the stress management work he has done with them has helped them both personally and professionally. Businesses and their employees would definitely benefit
from Dr. Vanderlip's knowledge and expertise.
There is no better therapist in the area of stress management. Dr. Vanderlip ranks at the top.
Dr. Susan Debin, M.D., Board Certified Family Practice

Participants particularly enjoyed Dr. Vanderlip's style of presentation and the availability for interactive learning. Many of the participants requested more information on the subject of communications and the CASA staff who found the hand-out materials to be useful and informative.
Louise Hall, Program Manager

Top of Page

Adult Comments

ADULT CHILD OF AN ALCOHOLIC - Healing Impact:

"Thank you for coming to our little town.
I'm 47 years old, divorced and have three boys.
When you spoke, I realized I was a very sensitive child. You helped me realize that my father never meant that he didn't love me. He passed away 4 years ago. Thanks for helping me heal all of that. I also realized that when the first man paid attention to me I loved it, needed it so much that I didn't even stop to consider lots of things. I married him when I was 18, little did I know that he was an alcoholic. The divorce was 5 years ago.
I am now getting better myself. My boys are still living with his alcoholism. You are doing a great thing and I've known for a long time that our town has a great need." Woman in Nebraska, 2002

DEEPLY TOUCHED:

"I just wanted to thank you for your incredible performance. It was the most moving thing I have ever witnessed from beginning to end.
I Hope you don't mind my spreading the word about your spectacular performance. I can see the beneficial results it can have on every man, woman and child.
You may remember me. I was the only Black man there.
I will never forget you." Man in New Hampshire, 2002

Top of Page

Mt. San Antonio College - Student Services Staff (2005)
"Susie was the best staff development speaker that we have ever had!"
"She kept us on the edge of our seats, she was great!"
"Your presentation put the spotlight on the heart of the (diversity) issue."

North Dakota Dept of Public Instruction, Safe and Drug Free Schools Coordinator, Coordinates School Health Coordinator
"The evaluations from the Roughrider health Promotion Conference are outstanding! Without hesitation, I heartily recommend your message of health promotion and educational professional development."

Hawthorne School Districts , Principal
"You left a lasting impression on everyone at my school site. Very professional and entertaining., yet filled with important messages. The consensus was that it was the most meaningful and poignant they had ever seen. Our At Risk population has nearly doubled in the past five years. Your presentation gave us new insights and strategies. I unconditionally recommend you."

Top of Page