Meet our Speakers

Donna McAuley

Founder & CEO of A.M. Wake Up Call
Advocate for awareness

My name is Donna McAuley. I am a mother of four and a proud NONNA of three, a woman strengthened by loss, led by love, guided by faith, and grounded in purpose. As the founder of A.M.WakeUpCall, I am using my voice in loving memory of my beautiful daughter Amanda to bring awareness, educate communities, and help stop addiction before it starts.

Dr. Alexander DeChurch

Industrial-Organizational Psychologist

Dr. Alexander DeChurch is an Industrial-Organizational Psychologist who works with organizations and individuals on organizational development and intrapersonal consulting. Alex is the CEO of Creative WorQs, PLLC., a company founded on the principles of creating meaningful change through a highly creative and client-tailored approach. Inspired by Donna's vision and Amanda's story, Alex began working with AM Wake Up Call in early March 2025. Alex has also experienced loss from the fentanyl crisis, and hopes to advance the goals of AM Wake Up Call by raising awareness and creating programming that helps others find outlets and alternatives to drug use and abuse.

Takiyah Anderson

Partnerships For Success Project Director of YUMADAOP

Takiyah Anderson is an Ohio Certified Prevention Consultant (OCPC) and is a Project Director with Youngstown Urban Minority Alcoholism And Drug Abuse Outreach Program (YUMADAOP) where she has worked in the prevention field for over 13 years. As Program Director she’s managed Drug Free Communities and Partnerships For Success Grants, working with coalitions, schools, and the community using the Strategic Prevention Framework and Strategies for Community Change. Takiyah has a Bachelor Degree in Accounting from Youngstown State University. Takiyah also serves as a coach for the Ohio Coalition Institute.

Denise Zordich

Advocate for awareness
Member of Bstrong

My name is Denise Zordich, a proud mother of three children: Dominique, Brian, and Nicholette. On December 14th, 2021, I experienced the heartbreaking loss of my son Brian to Fentanyl poisoning. Since then, my life has been forever changed by pain, regret, and what-ifs. Despite the challenges, the love and support from those around me help me face each day. The pain from Brian's passing has given me a purpose to educate others and raise awareness. Brian taught me to live fully, love deeply, and cherish the small moments that often mean the most. #BSTRONG

Barry Gray


Advocate for awareness

Berry is active in his community, working in education, which drives him to fight against the crisis everyday. Located in Columbiana County, he spends much time taking care of his mother due to the unfortunate passing of his father. His love for his family will be a prominent theme during his time as a speaker. Berry will share his experience about the tragic loss of his son.