FARMINGTON – Carolyn Cornelison, a nationally known alcohol education speaker, will discuss “Courage to Care” at 6:30 p.m. Tuesday, April 27, in Thomas Auditorium at the University of Maine at Farmington.

The UMF rugby team, in conjunction with the Department of Athletics, are sponsoring the program.

Cornelison uses her knowledge and personal experiences to take a realistic look at college drinking, taking responsibility, recognizing abuse and helping those with alcohol problems in her program, according to the college.

Her presentation makes college students laugh and sometimes cry as she shares her college experiences as a sorority member and an athlete.

Through her own stories and those of friends, Cornelison teaches students her three keys to caring: knowledge or understanding the signs of out-of-control behaviors and knowing what to do about them, sensitivity or becoming aware of these behaviors in yourself and those around you, and courage or taking steps to help someone who has a problem with alcohol.

In 1990, Cornelison called a college friend with the tragic news of a drunk-driving accident involving a sorority sister.

“Oh, Carolyn,” came the reply. “We always thought it would be you.”

Cornelison said she was speechless. She now realized that as far back as her college days, her friends knew she had a problem with alcohol. But no one had ever confronted her about it.

Cornelison now takes her message to colleges and universities across the country to help educate students.

She has traveled to more than 350 campuses and has been a part of numerous Greek education, athletic department and general campus health programs.