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In a ceremony Wednesday night, Portland State University’s Extended Studies announced the creation of the Vanport Legacy Award and honored its first recipient, Steve Suo. A staff reporter with The Oregonian, Suo was given the award in recognition of his five part series, “The Unnecessary Epidemic,” which focused on the methamphetamine epidemic in Oregon.

Suo spent well over two years researching the story, including investigating why methamphetamine usage is spreading and what the causes are that are fueling the rapid growth in usage across the Northwest. That series spawned numerous related articles in The Oregonian and in other media outlets, raising awareness of the issue and its associated impacts in the community.

The awareness created as a result of the coverage, as well as the coverage itself, helped support the work of programs in Extended Studies aimed at assisting professionals working with the effects of the epidemic. In presenting the award to Suo, Vice Provost and Director of Extended Studies Mike Burton noted “Suo’s work not only educates, but also brings our community together to solve a serious problem. This is the kind of commitment we honor through the Vanport Legacy Award”.

“Through this award we are recognizing individuals, programs and organizations that reflect our commitment to the community,” said Burton. “By engaging with the community we ensure Portland State University is a great place not only for learning and research, but is supportive of our community’s economic growth and livability.”

Portland State’s Extended Studies uses the strengths of the University to serve and empower lifelong learners by delivering programs that are flexible, responsive, and innovative. For many, Extended Studies is the first point of contact with the University. Working closely with the communities it serves, the program administrators learn firsthand of the community’s needs, priorities and plans for the future. Extended Studies translate those plans and priorities into practical, high-quality programs.

Media needing additional information regarding programs offered through PSU’s Extended Studies can visit www.extended.pdx.edu.

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