FAMU Medical Marijuana Education and Research Initiative(MMERI) Fourth Quarter Report 2020

Quarterly Report: 4-1-2020 - 6-30-2020 | Table of Contents

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TABLE of CONTENTS

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Educate. Learn. Talk.

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INTRODUCTION Introduction by Dr. Patricia Green-Powell

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EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

5

Program Overview

5

Mission, Vision, Goals

6

A Word from Dr. Larry Robinson and Dr. Charles Weatherford

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Program Components

10

Organizational Structure

11

MMERI Lead Team

12

MMERI Oversight & Advisory Panels

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FISCAL YEAR 2019-2020 BUDGET OVERVIEW

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MMERI BY THE NUMBERS (July 1, 2019 - June 30, 2020)

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AUDIENCE REACH IN FISCAL YEAR 2019-2020

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FOURTH QUARTER SNAPSHOT

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Education

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Public Education Study Grants

28

Community Engagement

30

Communications

38

AUDIENCE REACH IN THE FOURTH QUARTER

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LOOKING AHEAD | FISCAL YEAR 2020-2021

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MMERI Public Education Plan

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First Quarter 2020-2021 Action Plan

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FISCAL YEAR 2020-2021 BUDGET

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APPENDIX

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Appendix A: Directory of Community Engagement and Outreach Partner Groups

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Appendix B: Media Clips/News Coverage/Links to MMERI Channels

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Appendix C: Authorizing Florida Statute Section 381.986

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CONTACT US

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A Message from the Interim Executive Director of MMERI Finding Inspiration Amid Challenging Times As Florida A&M University’s Medical Marijuana Education and Research Initiative (MMERI) was building momentum heading into the fourth quarter of Fiscal Year 2020, so, too, was an unforeseen force to be reckoned with — the coronavirus pandemic.

In a matter of days, Florida businesses and schools closed and social gatherings were restricted as municipal governments and the Governor of Florida enacted stay-at-home orders meant to slow the spread of the virus. With the entire state held hostage by the pandemic, we made the decision in the interest of health and safety to suspend some of MMERI’s most effective programs, including Community Forums and in-person Basic Medical Marijuana Education classes, focus group activities and the much anticipated Train the Trainer program. Furthermore, the coronavirus crisis forced us to delay plans to set into motion new Community Engagement and Education initiatives designed to expand MMERI’s reach among Florida’s minority communities.

While the setbacks were disappointing, they also provided inspiration for finding new ways to continue to educate, learn and talk about medical marijuana and the impact of the unlawful use of marijuana. For example, on April 2, 2020, we debuted MMERI Videocast using the Zoom video conferencing platform so program hosts, myself included, could remotely engage expert guests in virtual face-to-face conversations on medical marijuana and the impact of the unlawful use of marijuana.. We produced 23 hour-long episodes in the fourth quarter, with the audio of each segment repurposed as a MMERI Forum Radio program and as a podcast available on the iHeart Radio app. We also produced half-hour videocasts that specifically targeted Caribbean and Haitian communities. These shows were aired on Ayiti TV and Island TV, two digital TV channels found on popular streaming television devices, such as Roku and Amazon Fire.

With the FAMU campus closed, we moved the MMERI Basic Medical Marijuana Education course online and extended it to students in Tallahassee Community College’s Workforce Development program as an instructor-led distance-learning class. In the fourth quarter, we also produced the inaugural issue of our e-newsletter, MMERI On the Move, and sent it to 834 email addresses in our database.

The fourth quarter was a challenging period, indeed, but the MMERI team rose to the occasion and delivered some of our best work, even though we were not able to personally engage our audiences. That said, we hope to soon see the pandemic loosen its grip on Florida so that we can resume established onsite engagement and education practices and unveil new interpersonal initiatives.

But regardless of the challenges we may encounter, MMERI will continue to innovate as a leading resource, for we are driven by a passion to educate, learn and talk about medical marijuana.

Sincerely, Patricia Green-Powell, Ph.D. Interim Executive Director, MMERI

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EXECUTIVE SUMMARY MMERI PROGRAM OVERVIEW Florida A&M University (FAMU) established the Medical Marijuana Education and Research Initiative (MMERI) to educate minorities about marijuana for medical use and the impact of the unlawful use of marijuana on minority communities. Funding is provided via the Florida Department of Health at the direction of the Legislature.

Given the University’s historical role in educating minority students, FAMU is in a unique position to educate Florida’s diverse minority populations about medical marijuana. As a research institution, FAMU has the resources to study and understand the knowledge and perspectives of marijuana use among multilingual and multicultural audiences.

MMERI is operating under a mandate from the state Legislature: “Educate Florida’s diverse minority communities about medical marijuana and the impact of the unlawful use of marijuana on minority communities.”

See Appendix C to read Section 381.986, Florida Statutes (F.S.)

MISSION To educate, inform, and engage Florida’s diverse population about medical marijuana and the potential consequences from the unlawful use of marijuana.

VISION Florida A&M University (FAMU) is the catalyst for statewide education and outreach efforts that ensure Florida’s multicultural and multigenerational communities are knowledgeable about medical marijuana and the unlawful use of marijuana.

GOALS •

Educate Florida’s Diverse Minority Communities about Medical Marijuana and the Impact of the Unlawful Use of Marijuana

•

Increase the Body of Research that Promotes and Advances Knowledge about Medical Marijuana and the Impact of the Unlawful Use of Marijuana

•

Conduct Ongoing Assessment and Evaluation of the Effectiveness and Impact of the MMERI program

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OUR SPECIFIC CHARGE Larry Robinson, Ph.D. President, Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University With the support of the Florida Legislature, Florida Agricultural & Mechanical University (FAMU) established the Medical Marijuana Education and Research Initiative (MMERI) in 2018 as a vehicle for public education and engagement on medical marijuana. Our specific charge is to inform Florida’s diverse minority communities about myriad aspects of marijuana for medical use and the impact of unlawful marijuana use on Florida’s communities of color.

Our objectives are to ensure that the voices of Florida’s minority communities are heard when marijuana-related policies are made, and that these communities share in the health and economic benefits of medicinal marijuana. Driven by research conducted by FAMU faculty, we are creating a repository of information that will be used to advance minority populations’ knowledge of medical marijuana, influence policymakers and inspire spirited conversations.

At FAMU, we are expanding our expertise to address the issues driving this vast and burgeoning industry. As a land-grant institution with a statewide mission, we have engaged communities broadly and have students and alumni from all sectors of the great state of Florida. This history serves us well as we expand our education and service mission through the Medical Marijuana Education and Research Initiative.

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“

At FAMU, we are expanding our expertise to address the issues driving this vast and burgeoning industry.

- Larry Robinson, Ph.D.

WE’RE MAKING PROGRESS Charles Weatherford, Ph.D. Principal Investigator, MMERI, and Vice President of Research, Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University

As the Principal Investigator of Florida A&M’s Medical Marijuana Education and Research Initiative (MMERI), I am responsible for the overall management and performance of the program. This position affords me the opportunity to work with the MMERI team on strategic planning and its efficient expenditure of funds, both capably managed under the direction of Interim Executive Director Dr. Patricia Green-Powell.

I am very impressed with the progress Dr. Green-Powell and her staff have made toward the program’s goals. For example: •

The digital plan has been executed, including new assets and formats to continue education on marijuana for medical use and the impact of the unlawful use of marijuana, and encourage safety during the COVID-19 outbreak

•

MMERI is utilizing a stratified targeting methodology to ensure an equitable distribution of minority representation is consistent with overall Florida minority population

•

•

MMERI has developed a focus group protocol that helps the program achieve a consistent, effective, and targeted outreach messaging and implementation

•

MMERI is utilizing the web-based Basic Medical Marijuana Education course’s individual surveys captured in Qualtrics

•

Additional education partnerships are being created

•

Eleven mini-grant awardees have participated in our MMERI Forum Radio series to share their research, including methodology regarding their studies.

MMERI is in the process of moving forward with evidence-based studies for 2020-2021.

It is clear that MMERI is building momentum while carrying out its mission to educate Floridians, particularly members of minority communities, about medical marijuana and the impact of the unlawful use of marijuana on minority communities. And as the only state supported Historically Black College/University in Florida, FAMU is ideally suited to support this mission.

MMERI has developed and maintained a growing directory of local education core partners. These partners support MMERI’s training sessions and

MMERI has a promising future, indeed, and I’m excited to be part of the team that intends to fulfill that promise.

outreach efforts in minority communities across the state

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MMERI PROGRAM COMPO Education Historically, FAMU has played an outstanding role in educating minority students and is in a unique position to educate Florida’s diverse minority populations about medical marijuana and the impact of unlawful use of marijuana, while developing and delivering curriculum and certified training programs to increase knowledge and understanding of these subjects.

Public Education Study Grants FAMU’s Medical Marijuana Education and Research Initiative supports 11 unique studies that explore a wide range of interests related to the legal and unlawful uses of marijuana. The program seeks to advance knowledge about medical marijuana and the potential consequences of the unlawful use of marijuana as well as investigate such issues as wellness, dispensary locations and epidemiology as they relate to minority populations.

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ONENTS Community Engagement Community engagement and education are integral parts of this initiative. To reach target populations, MMERI has implemented activities as well as build and expand relationships and partnerships, and collaboration with leaders, community groups, faith-based organizations, educational institutions and others.

Communications Partnerships and collaborations with broadcast outlets and other media generate timely delivery and dissemination of relevant information to communities statewide. A statewide messaging campaign includes the use of various digital, audio, visual, print and in-person platforms to educate key audiences and stakeholders.

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ORGANIZATIONAL STRUCTURE FAMU President, Provost, and VP for Research

Interim Executive Director

External Advisory Committee

Program Administrator

Budget-Program Manager

PROJECT OVERSIGHT AND COMPLIANCE

FLORIDA DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH

FAMU Division of Research

Issues Medical Marijuana Use Registry ID Cards

FAMU Office of Compliance and Ethics

Allocates Funding to FAMU

FAMU Office of Audit FAMU Oversight and Compliance Workgroup

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Public Affairs Liaison

Educate. Learn. Talk.

MEDICAL MARIJUANA EDUCATION and RESEARCH INITIATIVE LEAD TEAM PATRICIA GREEN-POWELL, PH.D. | Interim Executive Director As Interim Executive Director, Dr. Green-Powell is responsible for the oversight of Florida A&M’s Medical Marijuana Education and Research Initiative (MMERI) as specified Section 381.986, F.S., as adopted via Chapter 2017-232, Laws of Florida: “to educate minorities about marijuana for medical use and the impact of the unlawful use of marijuana on minority communities.” In this role, Dr. Green-Powell serves as the liaison between the FAMU Division of Research, the Office of the Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs, the Office of Communications, the University President, FAMU Board of Trustees, and the Florida Department of Health.

GP MENDIE | Budget-Program Manager GP Mendie serves as Budget & Program Manager under the direction of MMERI’s Interim Executive Director, and the University’s Vice President for Research, the Provost and Leadership. In this role, Mr. Mendie collaborates with relevant stakeholders to oversee the program’s budget and finance, operations, audit, contracts, strategic planning, and overall compliance with applicable statutes and regulations.

ANGELA HARDIMAN | Public Affairs Liaison As the Public Affairs Liaison, Angela Hardiman plays a key leadership role in the communications and community engagement components of Florida A&M University’s Medical Marijuana Education and Research Initiative (MMERI). Among her outreach duties, Ms. Hardiman hosts MMERI Videocasts and MMERI Forum Radio broadcasts, and moderates MMERI Community Forums.

BAGNAMA VIRGINIA KING | Program Administrator Bagnama Virginia King provides administrative and executive support to the Medical Marijuana Education and Research Initiative (MMERI). She oversees organizational activities, manages relationships with key operations vendors, and communicates with the office of procurement services, legal counsel and safety department to ensure all processes remain compliant. She also coordinates travel arrangements for staff, sets up conferences and meetings and collects survey data gleaned from community forums, among other functions.

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MMERI OVERSIGHT and COMPLIANCE WORKGROUP The MMERI Oversight and Compliance Workgroup was formed in 2019 and charged with a mandate to monitor four key areas of the Medical Marijuana Education and Research Initiative: 1.

Fiscal Affairs/Reconciliation

2.

Achievement of Project Goals and Fulfillment of Mission

3.

Impact and Assessment

4.

General Compliance

WORKGROUP MEMBERS: Herbert Bailey

Assistant Vice President for Fiscal Management

Pamela Blount

Director, Contracts & Grants, Division of Research

Glory Brown

Director, Office of Sponsored Programs

Rica Calhoun

Chief Compliance and Ethics Officer, FAMU Office of Compliance and Ethics

The panel includes 11 members of FAMU faculty and staff and is led by the Principal Investigator of MMERI, Charles Weatherford, Ph.D., Vice President for Research, Professor of Physics and Director of Center for Plasma Science and Technology. The workgroup meets monthly.

Maurice Edington, Ph.D.

Professor and Provost/Vice President Academic Affairs

Patricia Green-Powell, Ph.D. Interim Executive Director, MMERI

Angela Hardiman

Public Affairs Liaison, MMERI

Cynthia Hughes Harris, Ph.D.

Chair of MMERI’s Research and the Dean of FAMU’s School of Allied Health Sciences

GP Mendie

Budget-Program Manager, MMERI

David Self, Esquire

Associate General Counsel

Charles Weatherford, Ph.D.

Principal Investigator of Workgroup, Vice President for Research, Professor of Physics and Director of Center for Plasma Science and Technology

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MMERI EXTERNAL ADVISORY COUNCIL (MMERIEAC) MEMBERS COUNCIL MEMBERS: Na’im Akbar, Ph.D.

Author, public speaker, retired clinical psychologist

Gloria Anderson

Former director of the Smith-Williams Service Center, Tallahassee

Valeria Robinson Baker Consultant pharmacist

Ed Clarke II, DrPH, MSW

This 11-member volunteer panel serves as an impartial and objective adviser to the leadership of the Medical Marijuana Education and Research Initiative. With its makeup of well-respected active and retired professionals from myriad fields of endeavor, the Council is able to provide unique perspectives as MMERI builds on its successes and identifies new opportunities. A key responsibility of membership is helping MMERI make connections with community leaders and potential partners in minority communities. The group meets three times a year and each member is required to participate in at least two MMERI activities annually.

Program Evaluator, Bureau of Chronic Disease Prevention at Florida Department of Health

Patricia Dawson

Chair of MMERIEAC, solo practitioner of the Law Office of Patricia Dawson, P. A.

Patrick Mason, Ph.D.

Professor of Economics & Director, African American Studies Program, Florida State University

Dr. Bhavin Patel

Consultant and physician

Patricia Snyder, Ph.D.

University of Florida distinguished professor

Barney Spann

Vice President, Wells Fargo Bank, and co-owner of Avela Day Spa, Jacksonville

Rev. Lonnie D. Wesley, III

Pastor of Greater Little Rock Baptist Church, Pensacola

Sheriff Morris A. Young Gadsden County, Florida

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FISCAL YEAR 2019-2020 BUDGET OVERVIEW For FY 2019/20, the MMERI program had an operating budget of $4,369,263.39. The outcomes driven budget was designed to effectively meet the program’s legislative intent of educating Florida’s diverse populations, sub-demographics and communities in urban and rural areas. The program thus had the below-budget allocation categories to support this statewide initiative.

However, due to the COVID-19 pandemic’s impact on program operations in the busy third and fourth quarters, the MMERI team was unable to conduct in-person educational outreach events.

This setback affected the actual program expenditures.

Program Adopted Fiscal Year Budget Allocations

by Category Salaries and Benefits The allocated budget amount for this category was $530,328.63, or 12% of total operating budget. The allocated amount supported a crew of personnel responsible for implementing the program’s mandate. The program personnel included a deputy director position (now vacant and replaced by the Budget-Program Manager) as well as the following: •

Interim Executive Director

•

Budget and Program Manager

•

Program Administrator

•

Public Affairs Liaison

•

Communications Liaison

Expense/Equipment/Supplies and Other This category had an allocated budget of $200,030.46. Funds supported the program’s operational items that included office equipment and supplies. The allocated funds also supported statewide training venues, logistics, culturally linguistically competent educational materials for targeted and specialized groups.

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Travel The MMERI program had a $100,000 budget allocated for travel. The objective here was to ensure intense and comprehensive boots-on-the-ground education outreach coverage by staff as we sought to implement the program’s objectives.

Contractual and Professional Services Almost $3 million was allocated for this category to support statewide media campaigns, community engagement, educational outreach, communications, collaterals and extensive education outreach partnerships with nonprofit organizations and State University System (SUS) institutions.

Evidence-Based Studies The amount allocated to this effort was $98,000. Earlier in the fiscal year, evidencebased study grants were awarded to help inform educational content development that is expected to provide insights into the more complex areas involving medical marijuana use and the impact of the unlawful use of marijuana on minority communities. Upon completion of the studies and going forward, no new funds will be allocated to evidencebased studies. Instead, the MMERI program will work with and build partnerships with other entities on shared interests, including but not limited to the University of Florida Medical Marijuana Research Consortium, to increase the body of knowledge that helps facilitate educating Florida’s diverse populations and minority communities.

Indirect Cost (F&A) F&A was based on 15% of projected direct costs, which was estimated to be $569,903.92.

F&A is only charged after an expenditure has occurred and is designed to partially reimburse the University for the administrative costs associated with items such as human resources, among others. The actual expenditures (excluding projected obligations) yielded an F&A amount of $189,535.16 for the fiscal year ended.

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Program Name: Medical Marijuana Education and Research Initiative (MMERI) July 1, 2019 - June 30, 2020

Budget Category

Adopted FY 19/20 Budget

FY 19/20 Expenditures

FY 19/20 Encumbran (Obligated)

A. Admin & Operational Costs A1. Salaries & Benefits $ 530,328.63

$ 476,947.06

$-

$ 530,328.63

$ 476,947.06

$-

$ 200,030.46

$ 27,977.88

$ 9,281.07

$ 200,030.46

$ 27,977.88

$ 9,281.07

$ 100,000.00

$ 12,170.20

$-

$ 100,000.00

$ 12,170.20

$-

$ 2,871,000.37

$ 713,766.16

$ 476,758.50

$ 2,871,000.37

$ 713,766.16

$ 476,758.50

$ 98,000.00

$ 32,706.41

$ 6,794.68

A5. Subtotal

$ 98,000.00

$ 32,706.41

$ 6,794.68

Total Direct Costs

$ 3,799,359.46

$ 1,263,567.71

$ 492,834.25

A1. Subtotal

A2. Expense/Equipment/ Supplies/ Other A2. Subtotal A3. Travel A3. Subtotal

A4. Contracted and Professional Services A4. Subtotal A5. Evidence-Based Studies

B. Administrative/Indirect Costs B1. Indirect Cost (F&A)

$ 569,903.92

$ 189,535.16

$ 73,925.1

B1. Subtotal

$ 569,903.92

$ 189,535.16

$ 73,925.1

Budget Total

$ 4,369,263.38

$ 1,453,102.87

$ 566,759.39

Note:

*Revenue is typically disbursed after each quarter ended. Therefore, revenue received from DOH during 1st & 2nd **Encumbrances and obligated funds will be reconciled during 1st quarter of FY 20/21 to capture actual resulting

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nces

FY 2019-2020 Budget Summary Operating Budget

$ 4,369,263.39

*Revenue Received

$ 4,000,940.00

Expenditures

$ (1,453,102.87)

**Encumbrances (Obligated)

$ (566,759.39)

Total Expended/Obligated

$ (2,019,862.26)

Projected Balance

$ 2,349,401.13

FY 19/20 Projected UnObligated Balance

$ 53,381.57

Budget Category Description

Interim Executive Director/Budget-Program Manager/Program Administrator/Public Affairs Liaison/Communications Liaison

$ 53,381.57 $ 162,771.51 $ 162,771.51 $ 87,829.80 $ 87,829.80 $ 1,680,475.71 $ 1,680,475.71 $ 58,498.91 $ 58,498.91

Equipment/supplies/state-wide training venues/logistics/culturally linguistically competent collateral and other educational materials for targeted and specialized groups Extensive statewide travel by MMERI team for education campaings and community engagement activities in advancement of MMERI legislative mandate Statewide media campaign, community engagement/educational outreach/ communications/collaterals/extensive education outreach partnerships with non-profits and SUS Institutions Evidence-based studies are expected to provide insight into the more complex areas involving medical marijuana use and the impact of the unlawful use of marijuana on minority communities.

$ 2,042,957.50

$ 306,443.63 $ 306,443.63

FAMU’s agreed upon F&A rate for MMERI is calculated at a reduced rate of 15% of total direct costs (expenditures).

$ 2,349,401.13

d quarters of FY19/20 in the amount $2,272,340 were funds from FY18/19 expenditures. Un-encumbered funds will revert back to the budget balance

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MMERI by the NUMBERS 2

EDUCATION

510 266 193

COURSES DEVELOPED Covering the History of Marijuana, Legalization, Safety, Qualifying Conditions, Prevention

PARTICIPANTS Students and individuals who took the Basic Medical Marijuana Education course

PRE/POST ASSESSMENTS COMPLETED By participants in the Basic Medical Marijuana Education online course

ONLINE SURVEYS COMPLETED By participants in the Basic Medical Marijuana Education online course

COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT

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COMMUNITY EVENTS Attended in cities across Florida

COMMUNITY FORUMS Provided educational information in English, Spanish, and Haitian-Creole

FACE-TO-FACE CONVERSATIONS

675 ENGAGEMENTS 131

Generated dialogue with multicultural and multigenerational populations

In collaboration with community partners and organizations

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EDUCATE. LEARN. TALK.

July 1, 2019 - June 30, 2020

RESEARCH

11

PUBLIC EDUCATION STUDY GRANTS Findings to guide future public education and outreach efforts

COMMUNICATIONS 37,477

RADIO PSA PLACEMENTS

12,667

TELEVISION PSAs PLACEMENTS

47 25 418

31 2

Aired in 10 major media markets through the Florida Association of Broadcasters

Aired in 10 major media markets through the Florida Association of Broadcasters

PODCAST EPISODES Delivered to mobile and digital devices through the iHeart Media network

VIDEOCASTS Broadcast via multiple media channels

MINORITY RADIO PROGRAM PLACEMENTS Aired on Urban, Gospel, Spanish, Caribbean, and Haitian-Creole radio stations

MINORITY NEWSPAPER AD PLACEMENTS Published in African-American, Spanish, and Haitian-Creole newspapers

STREAMING TELEVISION PROGRAMS Caribbean and Haitian-Creole programs available through streaming devices

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AUDIENCE REACH in FISCAL YEAR 2019-2020

The MMERI Public Education campaign delivered information to Floridians through programs, activities and multiple media channels. The following aggregated data below represent the estimated* number of people reached through the MMERI education outreach components in FY 2019-2020.

BLACK 8,922,833

HISPANIC

WHITE

9,592,173

20,870,024

ASIAN

MIXED/ OTHER**

931,592

624,381

*Estimated total reach based on data collected by MMERI staff and provided by MMERI partners and vendors ** Mixed/Other is defined as people from two or more races.

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Aggregated data of audiences reached from the following public education programs and activities: •

Online Education Surveys and Assessments

•

Community Outreach

•

Television Outreach

•

Radio Outreach

•

Print Outreach

• •

Digital Media Outreach Social Media Outreach

FOURTH QUARTER SNAPSHOT MMERI Components and Accomplishments

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MMERI COMPONENTS and ACCOMPLISHMENTS EDUCATION Historically, FAMU has played an outstanding role in educating minority students and is uniquely positioned to educate Florida’s diverse minority populations about medical marijuana and unlawful use of marijuana, as well as develop and deliver curriculum and certified training programs.

MMERI Adapts Basic Medical Marijuana Education Course to Online Learning Created under the direction of — and also taught by — Interim Executive Director Patricia Green-Powell, Ph.D., the MMERI Basic Medical Marijuana Education course covers everything from the earliest recorded use of cannabis for medical treatment (2727 BC) to the fine points of Florida’s medical marijuana law, 381.986, F.S. to the qualifying conditions for using medical marijuana to the health consequences stemming from the unlawful use of marijuana.

The course was launched at the beginning of the 2019-2020 academic year on the FAMU campus, with plans to offer it statewide in the spring. But in April, the MMERI program was faced with very strict limitations on all inperson outreach initiatives as the coronavirus outbreak began to spread across Florida. With the FAMU campus closed and public gatherings prohibited to stem the spread of the virus, the MMERI team had to reimagine how to bring the new MMERI Basic Medical Marijuana Education course to students and others interested in the curriculum. Fortunately, technology made it possible to move the course online and in doing so making it more accessible, but also less interactive for many participants — the course is more impactful when it spurs conversation among participants and instructors.

The pandemic also delayed plans to expand the curriculum from Pensacola to Miami, with trained instructors offering to present the course to organizations and groups in minority communities.

Partnership with Tallahassee Community College (TCC) Still, the MMERI Basic Medical Marijuana Education course grew in the fourth quarter to include Tallahassee Community College as a partner.

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COURSE PARTICIPANT FEEDBACK In the fourth quarter, 434 students and other individuals took the Basic Medical Marijuana Education course either via the Zoom video-conferencing platform (240 participants) or independently online (194 participants). The course reached people in 25 Florida counties and four counties outside the state.

Of the 434 participants, 189, or 44%, completed the post-course survey that measures changes in participants’ awareness and attitude about marijuana for medical and unlawful uses.

KEY FINDINGS Respondents to the online course’s survey indicated that they gained knowledge and a better understanding of medical and lawful marijuana, and they were overwhelmingly satisfied with the curriculum: Yes

No

“Did your knowledge and understanding of marijuana for medical use improve?” 95%

5%

Yes

No

“Did your knowledge and understanding of unlawful use of marijuana improve?” 93%

7%

On a scale of 1-5, with 5 as extremely satisfied and 1 as the lowest level of satisfaction, how would you rate your experience with the course: Extremely Satisfied

Somewhat Satisfied

Others

77.5%

15%

7.5%

ABOUT THE SURVEY PARTICIPANTS 40-59

White (9)

60+

Other Asian (9)

(4)

Hispanic

(22)

18-24

Male

(25%)

25-39

Female (75%)

African American or Black (390)

Age

Gender

Survey Participants

by Ethnicity

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Public Education Study Grants In April 2019, Florida A&M University’s MMERI program awarded 11 mini-grants to faculty members to conduct studies exploring a wide range of interests related to marijuana and minorities’ involvement with it as a medicinal or unlawful drug.

Under the direction of Cynthia Hughes Harris, Ph.D., MMERl’s Research Chair and the Dean of FAMU’s School of Allied Health Sciences, these studies are conducted by faculty members from such disciplines as agriculture, allied health, architecture, law, pharmacy, business, and social sciences. Their findings will be added to MMERI’s burgeoning repository of information on marijuana. Additionally, the studies will be used to inform public policy in Florida and beyond about the impact and issues presented by the nascent marijuana industry.

In addition to directing these studies, Dr. Hughes Harris also serves on the Consortium for Medical Marijuana Clinical Outcomes Research Board at the University of Florida.

The grantees were selected by an impartial panel of experienced FAMU researchers and content experts who rated each application on objective criteria appropriate to the goals of the grant. Each grant award is $7,000. The research projects were completed June 30, 2020.

Results are expected in fall 2020.

GRANTEES STUDY TITLE To What Extent Do Mental Health and Psychosocial Factors Predict Risk for Misuse and Neuropsychological Impairment in African American Marijuana Users?

GRANTEES Gwendolyn Singleton, Ph.D., Associate Professor and Chair, Department of Psychology

SUMMARY/PROJECT NARRATIVE The purpose of this research project is to study how mental health, social and emotional factors relate to risk for medication misuse and thinking problems in medical marijuana users. This study seeks to understand the underlying psychological factors related to medical marijuana misuse. It explores the underlying mental health and psychosocial factors that relate to risk for cannabis use disorder and neurocognitive impairment.

STUDY TITLE Marijuana, Mental Health, and FAMU

GRANTEES DeAnna Burney, Ph.D., Professor, Department of Psychology, and Huijin Li, Ph.D., Associate Professor and Assistant Director, Center for Ethnic Psychological Research and Application, Department of Psychology

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SUMMARY/PROJECT NARRATIVE This project examines the epidemiological impact of intergenerational marijuana use on mental health in young African American populations and explores and tracks the psychological conditions related to marijuana use and other co-occurring drug use.

STUDY TITLE Knowledge and Perception of Pediatric Patient Caregivers on Medical Marijuana

GRANTEES Askal Ali, Ph.D., Assistant Professor, College of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, and Fatimah Sherbeny, Assistant Professor, Economics, Social and Administrative Pharmacy, College of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences

SUMMARY/PROJECT NARRATIVE This study aims to measure pediatric patient caregivers’ knowledge, attitudes, and perceptions of medical marijuana.

STUDY TITLE Mixed Methods Study of Medical Marijuana Use Among Minority Patients

GRANTEES John Luque, Ph.D., MPH, Associate Professor, College of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, and Arinzechukwu Okere, PharmD, MS, MBA, BPCS, Associate Professor, College of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences

SUMMARY/PROJECT NARRATIVE This pilot study will explore the therapeutic benefits of medical marijuana for pain alleviation, overall well-being, and other beneficial effects in a diverse patient population. In addition, the patient survey will query whether the use of medical marijuana has reduced the use of other pain medications as has been reported in other studies.

STUDY TITLE Exploring Minority Entrepreneur Access to Opportunities to the Medical Marijuana Industry

GRANTEES Jennifer Bowers, Ph.D., Assistant Provost and Associate Professor, School of Business and Industry, and LaTanya White, MBA, Instructor, School of Business and Industry

SUMMARY/PROJECT NARRATIVE Florida has one of the nation’s fastest-growing markets for medical marijuana with 13 active vertically integrated operators with approximately 222 dispensaries statewide. Our evidence-based research project focuses on examining the barriers to entry for minority entrepreneurs and proposing research-based solutions for minorities to participate in the lucrative business opportunities associated with the medical marijuana industry.

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STUDY TITLE Medical Marijuana Dispensary Locations and Neighborhood Crime

GRANTEES Andrew Chin, Interim Dean, School of Architecture and Engineering Technology

SUMMARY/PROJECT NARRATIVE To address the equity implication of zoning medical marijuana dispensaries (MMDs), a study for Tallahassee will be developed and result in a GIS map of Tallahassee indicating existing and potential medical marijuna MMD sites. The potential MMD sites will neither concentrate dispensaries within a certain socioeconomic group nor isolate access to a privileged few. This will help planners and policymakers in the city and state develop and permit MMDs in a more equitable manner.

STUDY TITLE Assessing the Knowledge and Perceptions of Community Members Specific to the Compassionate Use of Marijuana

GRANTEES Marisa Lewis, Pharm.D., MPH, Associate Professor, School of Allied Health Sciences and Lon’Tejuana Cooper, Ph.D., Associate Professor, School of Allied Health Sciences

SUMMARY/PROJECT NARRATIVE The study seeks to understand the knowledge and perceptions of community-based individuals specific to medical marijuana and provide pilot data for a larger project focused on educating community-based individuals, with a special focus on minority elders, on the uses of medical marijuana.

STUDY TITLE An Investigation on Marijuana Consumption in the Construction Industry in Florida

GRANTEES Behnam “Ben” Shadravan, Ph.D., Assistant Professor, School of Architecture and Engineering Technology

SUMMARY/PROJECT NARRATIVE This study will investigate the impact medical marijuana could have on safety and employment in Florida’s construction industry and determine which sectors of the construction industry suffer more because of medical and recreational marijuana use. Already there is substantial use of illegal marijuana among people who have jobs in which safety is a key concern. The study will include surveys of contractors of different sizes and job categories in Tallahassee, and, if time and budget allow, Panhandle areas damaged by Hurricane Michael.

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STUDY TITLE An Analysis of the Marijuana Wellness Intervention on Community, Coping, SubstanceAwareness, Self-Efficacy, and Self-Regulation Enhancement via Education (Marijuana WICSE) Project

GRANTEES Novell Tani, Ph.D., Assistant Professor, Department of Psychology, and Arie Christon, M.S., Graduate Research Assistant, Department of Psychology

SUMMARY/PROJECT NARRATIVE Implementing a novel structured, community-based educational intervention, this project strives to increase individuals’ knowledge surrounding the medical use of marijuana and the impacts of medical marijuana and the unlawful use of marijuana in minority communities.

The study will assess pre- and post-coping styles, substance awareness (knowledge), selfreported efficacies, and ability to regulate marijuana usage, as well as overall wellness level (namely anxiety, depression, and physiological responses).

STUDY TITLE A Study of the Correlation Between the Levels of Awareness and Willingness to Use Medical Marijuana as a Therapeutic Intervention in Individuals of Minority Populations with PostTraumatic Stress Symptoms.

GRANTEES Gari Tookes, Ph.D., Associate Professor, College of Social Sciences, Department of Social Work

SUMMARY/PROJECT NARRATIVE This study utilizes a mixed-method research approach to explore the awareness and willingness to use medical marijuana as a therapeutic intervention among individuals of minority races diagnosed with post-traumatic stress symptoms. In addition, this study will identify a correlation between participants of the minority race experience with trauma, awareness of medical marijuana policies and laws, willingness to use medical marijuana in lieu of psychotropic medication among those with post-traumatic stress symptoms.

STUDY TITLE An Examination of the Perceived Effects of Medical Marijuana

GRANTEES Brian Hickey, Ph.D., CSCS,*D Associate Professor, Department of Health and Physical Education

SUMMARY/PROJECT NARRATIVE This study seeks a better understanding of the perceptions of medical marijuana related to physical activity and other associated health constructs. Specifically, the perceived effects of prescription cannabinoids on physical activity, mental state, sleep, physical and mental recovery from stress, appetite, use of prescription opioids, pain management, and use in competitive athletics.

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COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT

PANDEMIC HALTS IN-PERSON OUTREACH Engaging minority communities in face-to-face conversations has proven to be the most effective method for disseminating fact-based information on Florida’s medical marijuana law and the impact of unlawful marijuana use on minority communities. The MMERI-sponsored Community Forum, for example, brings a panel of local stakeholders in health care, law enforcement and ministry, among other professions, together with the general public in a Q&A-style discussion.

Prior to the coronavirus outbreak, forums were held throughout the state, from Pensacola to Miami. MMERI team members also participated in community events across Florida as invited speakers. When the state shut down in early April due to the coronavirus pandemic, MMERI had no choice but to cancel all of its scheduled in-person Community Engagement events.

The team will resume in-person community engagement events when it is safe to hold large public gatherings again.

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COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT COLLABORATORS MMERI has built a alliance with dozens of stakeholders and organizations supporting this statewide initiative: 1.

Affordable Care Clinics

30. Marthe Brun, Community Member

2.

Akbar Law Firm

31. Max-Olivier Carre, Naturalist

3.

Axcess Pharmacy

32. Medical Marijuana Treatment Clinics of Florida

4.

Black Farmers and Agriculturalists of Florida

33. Medicus Cannabus

5.

Cantonment Family Medicine

34. Melbourne Police Department

6.

Chinese Association of Tallahassee

35. Miami-Dade Police Department

7.

City of Palm Bay

36. Mimose Hyppolite, Community Member

8.

Comprehensive Health Center

37. Mount Calvary Missionary Baptist Church

9.

CVS Pharmacy

38. Neville Ballin, MD

10. Danzy Bail Bonds

39. NORML Central Florida

11. Earl Britt, MD

40. Office of State Attorney, 2nd Judicial Circuit

12. Economy Drug Store

41. Olympia Compounding Pharmacy

13. Edward Waters College

42. Orange County Sheriff’s Office

14. Ellen Grizzle, PhD

43. P3 Community Church

15. Escambia County Sheriff’s Office

44. Pensacola Police Department

16. Florida Rights Restoration Coalition

45. Pompano Christian Clergy Council

17. Gary Joseph, MD, Acupuncture and Oriental

46. Powerhouse COGIC

Medicine

47. ReleafMD

18. Grassroots Wellness

48. Robert W Saunders, Sr. Public Library

19. Greater Frenchtown Revitalization Council

49. Roberto Dorneval, Community Member

20. Greater Little Rock Baptist Church

50. St. John Progressive Missionary Baptist Church

21. Health and Wellness Centers of North Florida

51. Tampa Police Department

22. Henry Lowe, PhD

52. The MaxOut Church

23. Herve Damas, MD, MBA.

53. Tiffany Bowden, PhD

24. Hillsborough County Public Schools

54. Total Pain Relief

25. Jeffrey Block, MD

55. Trulieve

26. Lauderhill Police Department

56. UF Health Shands Pastoral Services Team

27. Leo Bridgewater, Veteran

57. Veriheal

28. Leon County Sheriff’s Office 29. Letresia Wilson, MD

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COMMUNICATIONS MMERI leverages multiple media platforms to reach minority communities throughout Florida with factual information on the state’s medical marijuana law as well as inform them of the potential consequences of the unlawful use of marijuana.

Working hand in hand with the other three components of the MMERI program — Education, Research and Engagement — a comprehensive communications strategy is establishing Florida A&M as a leading authority on medical marijuana, and as a trusted resource on the legal and illegal uses of marijuana.

MMERI Forum Radio Since its debut on Sept. 19, 2019, the MMERI Radio Forum has evolved into a platform for informative and honest conversations about medical marijuana and the impact of the unlawful use of marijuana. As a result of the pandemic, featured guests include health care experts talking about Covid-19 and legal experts discussing the judicial impact of unlawful use on minority communities.

Through a partnership with iHeartRadio, each episode is rebroadcast on 10 affiliate FM and AM stations serving racially and ethnically diverse audiences.

MMERI Forum Radio’s educational and lively talk format is expertly led by Patricia Green-Powell, Ph.D., MMERI Interim Executive Director; Cynthia Hughes­Harris, Ph.D., Chair of MMERI’s Research and the Dean of FAMU’s School of Allied Health Sciences; and Angela Hardiman, MMERI Public Affairs Liaison.

MMERI Forum Radio hosts (from left, background): Carol Angela Davis (no longer with the program), Angela Hardiman, Patricia Green-Powell, Ph.D., and (foreground) Cynthia Hughes Harris, Ph.D.

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Broadcast Schedule Friday

12:30 p.m., FAMU WANM Radio 90.5 FM in Tallahassee (Leon and Gadsden counties); 5:30 p.m., and 8 p.m. WLDI (on air known as WiLD) 95.5 FM in West Palm Beach and the Treasure Coast

Saturday

8:30 a.m., Spanish language WTMP 96.1 FM (Caliente 96) in Hillsborough, Polk and Lee counties; 6:30 p.m., WTMP Radio 97.5 FM and 1150 AM in Pasco, Pinellas, Bradenton, Sarasota, Hillsborough, Polk and Lee counties; 6:30 p.m., Spanish language WTMP-FM 99.5 FM in Yulee/North Jacksonville

Sunday

7 a.m., WHBX FM 96.1 in Leon, Gadsden, Jefferson and Wakulla counties; 12 p.m., WCGL 94.7 FM and WCGL 1360 AM in Jacksonville; 12:30 p.m., FAMU WANM Radio 90.5 FM in Tallahassee (Leon and Gadsden counties); 2 p.m., WPUL 100.7 FM and WPUL 1590 AM Daytona, Ormond Beach, New Smyrna and Deland (Volusia County)

MMERI Podcasts All episodes of the MMERI Radio Forum are available 24/7 in podcast format on the iHeartRadio digital network and mobile app. Between April 1-June 30, 2020 there were approximately 365 downloads of the podcast. Since the launch of the podcast in October 2019, there have been a total of 1,496 downloads.

Download the Podcast MMERI Website: http://mmeri.famu.edu/podcasts/ iHeart Media Website: https://www.iheart.com/podcast/269-mmeriforum- radio-51146091/

Between April 1, 2020 June 30, 2020 there were approximately 365 downloads of the podcast.

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MMERI Videocasts MMERI Videocast debuted on April 2, 2020, in response to the coronavirus-related suspension of MMERI Community Forums. Set up on a Zoom platform and aired on FAMU TV, weekly episodes feature hosts Patricia Green-Powell, Ph.D., MMERI Interim Executive Director, Angela Hardiman, MMERI Public Affairs Liaison, and Cynthia Hughes Harris, Ph.D., MMERI Research Chair and Dean of FAMU School of Allied Health Sciences, remotely engaging guests in discussions on medical marijuana and the impact of the unlawful use of marijuana.

Audio of each episode is available in podcast format through the iHeart Radio app. Episodes can also be heard on the MMERI Forum Radio program airing on FAMU WANM Radio 90.5 FM and 10 iHeartRadio affiliate FM and AM stations that serve racially and ethnically diverse audiences across Florida.

To reach multicultural audiences, two half-hour Videocasts are produced specifically for Caribbean and Haitian communities. These MMERI Videocasts can be watched on Ayiti TV and Island TV, two digital TV channels found on popular streaming television devices including Roku and Amazon Fire.

The two interview-based shows are hosted by Scheril Murray Powell, Executive Director of the Black Farmers and Agriculturalists of Florida, and Guylene Berry, CEO of Sak Pase Media, who speaks Haitian-Creole. Both interview experts in law enforcement, medicine, agriculture, and the cannabis industry, among other areas.

Additional MMERI Videocasts targeting Hispanic and Asian communities are under development.

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Minority Newspaper and Radio Station Advertisements To promote MMERI radio programs and videocasts, and generate more listeners and viewers, MMERI contracted with 623 Management to place advertisements in mass media outlets that primarily target minority communities in Florida.

Between April and June 2020, ads were delivered across 13 newspapers. MMERI radio programs were placed on 20 radio stations broadcasting to urban, Spanish, Caribbean, and Haitian audiences. In addition, MMERI Videocasts were placed on two digital TV channels streaming the programs to Caribbean and Haitian communities. During the ad buy, messages from MMERI also appeared simultaneously on the media outlets’ websites and social media platforms.

This mixed-media ad campaign delivered more than 19.2 million impressions* within African American, Caribbean, Haitian and Hispanic populations**.

* Impressions are defined as the number of times an advertisement or content has been presented to a viewer online. **623 Management estimate using information from The Media Audit 2019 and 2020 editions

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Digital and Social Media Advertising Find MMERI on these popular social media platforms: Facebook Conversations on Cannabis Instagram @famucannabis Twitter @famucannabis YouTube Conversations on Cannabis iHeart media is the largest media company in the United States. As a media partner with MMERI, the conglomerate placed hundreds of ads on websites, mobile devices, apps and streaming devices, reaching people in 104 cities in Florida.

A mix of digital display and social media ads on Facebook promoted the MMERI Forum Radio podcast and program.

The greatest audience reach during this campaign was among minority populations: 50% African American ages 18-54 25% Hispanic ages 18-54 25% Caucasian ages 18-54 In addition, in-stream commercials were played on 104 iHeart radio stations in Florida, the iHeart website as well as the iHeart mobile app. As a value-add to the digital and social media campaign, DJs on iHeart’s urban statons promoted the podcasts between music sets and some on-air personalities conducted live interviews with MMERI staff during their radio shows.

Paid posts targeting key audiences on iHeart’s digital and social media platforms achieved more than 1.2 million impressions.

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MMERI E-newsletter In the wake of the coronavirus pandemic, the MMERI team added an e-newsletter, MMERI On The Move, as a more comprehensive communications tool. Sent on April 22, 2020 to a database of 834 email addresses, the inaugural seven-page issue included a welcome letter by Patricia Green-Powell, Ph.D., Interim Executive Director of MMERI, introductions to the Basic Medical Marijuana Education course, FAMU faculty marijuana-related research projects, and MMERI Forum Radio and MMERI Videocast, plus links to related information.

MMERI On The Move | April 22, 2020, 834 Recipients 31.8%

Open Rate Click Through Rate

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Radio and Television Public Service Announcements (PSA) MMERI partnered with the Florida Association of Broadcasters to execute a public education campaign to blanket the state’s airwaves with radio and television public education announcements about medical marijuana and the consequences of illicit use.

Between April and June 2020, more than 13,200 radio and television PSAs aired statewide.

The English and Spanish-language PSAs aired on 143 radio and 50 television stations in 10 major media markets across Florida:

Fort Myers-Naples

Panama City

Gainesville-Ocala

Pensacola

Jacksonville

Tallahassee

Miami-Fort Lauderdale

Tampa-St. Petersburg-Sarasota

Orlando-Daytona Beach-Melbourne

West Palm-Fort Pierce

2.2 million Hispanic viewers

Television Reach (estimated)

164,395 Mixed viewers

9.3 million total viewers 1.5 million African-American viewers 244,425 Asian viewers 5.2 million White viewers

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Using data from the US Census Bureau and Nielsen, the estimated potential television reach statewide April - June was 4,110,488 viewers, and the estimated potential radio reach* was 3,775,175 listeners**.

Of those estimated television viewers, 1,506,917 were African-American, 2,194,751 Hispanic, 5,196,916 White, 244,425 Asian, and 164,395 Mixed. Of those estimated radio listeners, 1,380,353 were African-American, 2,025,676 Hispanic, 4,662,449 White, 221,365 Asian and 147,781 Mixed. *Reach is defined as the number of people who have seen or heard an advertisement. ** The Florida Association of Broadcasters Source: The US Census Bureau data, and Nielsen’s cume rating estimates on Florida’s 10 media markets were used to estimate the number and percentages of potential minorities reached over the six-month campaign period.

2 million Hispanic listeners

Radio Reach (estimated)

8.3 million total listeners

1.3 million African-American listeners

147,781 Mixed listeners

221,365 Asian listeners 4.7 million White listeners

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AUDIENCE REACH in the FOURTH QUARTER (APRIL-JUNE 2020) The MMERI Public Education campaign delivered information to Floridians through programs, activities and multiple media channels. The following aggregated data below represent the estimated* number of people reached through the MMERI education outreach components in FY 2019-2020.

BLACK 4,301,145 HISPANIC

WHITE

4,508,289

10,147,202

ASIAN

MIXED/ OTHER**

465,802

312,205 *Estimated total reach based on data collected by MMERI staff and provided by MMERI partners and vendors ** Mixed/Other is defined as people from two or more races.

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Aggregated data of audiences reached from the following public education programs and activities: •

Online Education Surveys and Assessments

•

Community Outreach

•

Television Outreach

•

Radio Outreach

•

Print Outreach

• •

Digital Media Outreach Social Media Outreach

LOOKING AHEAD

Fiscal Year 2020-2021

MMERI Public Education Action Plan In the fiscal year ahead, MMERI will continue to Educate, Learn and Talk about medical marijuana and the unlawful use of marijuana while growing the program’s influence among minority communities. That said, we foresee challenges ahead in personally engaging our audiences as the coronavirus pandemic remains a threat to the safety of gatherings and close interactions.

In anticipation of having to navigate this public health crisis, MMERI has developed an integrated public education plan for fiscal year 2020-2021. It includes results-based approaches to educate, learn and talk about marijuana with audiences statewide.

The following is a high-level overview of the action plan and the ways MMERI will measure its impact.

2020-2021 PROGRAM COMPONENTS AND OBJECTIVES EDUCATION Increase knowledge and understanding of medical marijuana use and unlawful use of marijuana within diverse and multicultural communities in Florida.

COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT Prompt more conversations about marijuana within multicultural communities and among minorities.

Build new relationships, partnerships and collaborations with leaders, community groups, faith-based organizations, educational institutions and others to reach Florida’s diverse population.

COMMUNICATIONS Consistently deliver and disseminate timely and relevant information to multicultural communities statewide while educating and engaging key audiences and stakeholders.

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TARGET AUDIENCES AND STAKEHOLDERS Target audiences by age:

Subpopulations:

•

Youth/Juveniles (under 18)

•

People with disabilities

•

College students (18+)

•

People with chronic medical conditions

•

Adults (25+)

•

Ex-offenders and offenders

•

Seniors (55+)

Demographics:

Audience needs and motivations: •

MMJ qualifying conditions

•

Black or African American

•

MMJ registry ID card information

•

Caribbean

•

MMJ treatment centers

•

Hispanic/Latino (Mexican, Puerto Rican, Cuban,

•

Recreational marijuana legal consequences

Colombian, Venezuelan, Guatemalan, Peruvian,

•

Recreational marijuana health consequences

Portuguese and others)

Influencers/Stakeholders:

•

Asian

•

American Indian/Native American

•

Law enforcement

•

Indian/Middle-Eastern

•

Policy makers

•

Caucasian

•

Healthcare providers

•

Community-based organizations (faith-based,

Non-English Speakers

nonprofits)

•

Spanish

•

Higher education institutions

•

Portuguese

•

Medical marijuana industry

•

Haitian-Creole

•

Jamaican-Patois

•

Mandarin

STRATEGIES •

Leverage the university’s broad network of partners, resources and faculty to facilitate public education, community engagement and communications

•

Develop accessible programs and resources for targeted market areas and multicultural populations across Florida

•

Measure outputs, outcomes and other metrics of success to determine reach and effectiveness; adjust tactics as necessary to increase community engagement and other desired outcomes

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CORE TACTICS: EDUCATION

Frequency: On-going

The Basic Medical Marijuana Education course is an online curriculum that covers everything from the earliest recorded use of cannabis for medical treatment (2727 BC) to the fine points of Florida’s medical marijuana law, 381.986, F.S. to the qualifying conditions for using medical marijuana to the health and legal consequences stemming from the unlawful use of marijuana. The course was first introduced to FAMU students through the University’s Blackboard platform. It is now open to the public on the MMERI website.

Intermediate Medical Marijuana Education Course (New) This new online course will provide a deeper more contextual and analytical understanding of marijuana for medical use and the impact of the unlawful use of marijuana on minority communities. The course will target health care professionals, allied health workers and home caregivers. It will also be open to the general public on the MMERI website.

Train The Trainer (New)

Frequency: On-going

Frequency: On-going

Basic Medical Marijuana Education Course

MMERI is preparing a cadre of trainers to share the program’s information in the communities they serve.

The Train the Trainer initiative will equip instructors with the tools to incorporate MMERI’s education curricula into their regular interactions with multicultural and multigenerational groups. These trainers work for community-based organizations, including faith-based groups, youth programs, and neighborhood services. These trainers, many of whom are well-recognized in their own communities, can help MMERI build long-term relationships with stakeholders and citizens, and establish itself in Florida as a trusted authority on medical marijuana and the health and legal consequences stemming from the unlawful uses of marijuana.

Public Education Grant Reports (New) Findings from 11 evidence-based public education studies will be presented to the MMERI team in September. The insights gleaned from the studies will be used by the MMERI team to enhance future activities and programs that educate and engage with minority communities about medical mariuana and the consequences of the illicit use of marijuana. All reports will be available online to the public and MMERI partners.

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Frequency: 1-2 Per Quarter

MMERI Community Forums will move to a virtual format due to the pandemic. Similar to previous events, the forums will provide a platform to educate minority communities about medical marijuana and the consequences of unlawful marijuana use.

MMERI will leverage our community partners and stakeholders to promote the events and encourage participation from key audiences.

Facebook Live Conversations on Cannabis To boost MMERI’s presence on Facebook, events will be scheduled or streamed on the popular platform to have Conversations on Cannabis. Facebook Live events will model the community forums and feature panelists engaging with a live audience on the platform.

Instagram TV Conversations on Cannabis To boost MMERI’s presence on Instagram, live events will be scheduled or streamed on the popular platform to have Conversations on Cannabis.

Instagram Live events will model the community forums and feature panelists engaging with a live audience on the platform.

Frequency: Annual

Frequency: 1-2 Per Quarter

Frequency: 1-2 Per Quarter

Virtual Community Forums

Frequency: 1-2 Per Quarter

CORE TACTICS: COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT Speaking Engagements and Presentations In addition to hosting the virtual community forums, MMERI team members will participate in local, regional, state and national events about medical marijuana to raise the program’s profile. Upcoming programs have moved to a virtual format as a result of the pandemic.

Community Education Partnerships (New) MMERI is preparing a grant program to provide funds to community-based organizations and schools within the State University System of Florida (SUSF).

Under the direction of MMERI, these organizations will receive resources and grant funding to implement mechanisms and methods to conduct educational outreach that’s focused on the medicinal and unlawful uses of marijuana. As an extension of MMERI, they will educate and talk to Florida’s minority groups and diverse populations about marijuana.

The grant awards will be given to recipients with direct access to the following target audiences: •

Multi-ethnic groups and races (African Americans, Hispanic Americans, American Indians, Asian Americans, Native Hawaiians, Pacific Islanders, White

Frequency: 1-2 Per Quarter

Americans)

YouTube TV Conversations on Cannabis To boost MMERI’s presence on YouTube, live events will be scheduled or streamed on the popular platform to have Conversations on Cannabis.

YouTube Live events will model the community forums and feature panelists engaging with a live audience on the platform.

•

Prison populations

•

Individuals with disabilities

•

Individuals in assisted living facilities, nursing homes, and other residential care facilities

•

Each organization will be required to meet program goals and objectives. More importantly, recipients of these community education partnership grants will deliver evidence-based outcomes to demonstrate the effectiveness of their locally driven, ethnically focused, culturally relevant, and linguistically appropriate

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outreach activities.

Frequency: 1-2 Per Quarter

Focus Group Protocol (New) This new initiative is designed to more closely engage hard-to-reach audiences, such as people who are unlikely to attend MMERI Community Forums or other large gatherings or may face challenges in accessing the online Basic Medical Marijuana Education course. We will gauge participants’ understanding of Florida’s medical marijuana law using a Focus Group Protocol that utilizes open-ended questions to encourage a group discussion. A focus group will include a MMERI facilitator, neutral moderator, recorder and participants. Trained as an advocate of the MMERI program, the facilitator will engage participants in discussions on medical marijuana and illegal marijuana while responses are recorded. This statewide effort will seek to yield qualitative data on minority communities’ views of medical marijuana.

CORE TACTICS: COMMUNICATIONS MMERI will build on established communications practices and integrate them with fresh approaches that will amplify public education and outreach efforts in the coming year. This includes: •

Leveraging social media to promote our Education initiatives and prompt conversations about medical marijuana and the consequences of the unlawful use of marijuana

•

Expanding radio and media outreach to penetrate Hispanic and Asian communities

•

Disseminating MMERI Podcasts and Videocasts statewide through the largest media network in the U.S.

•

Sending MMERI messages through mailers that target minorities, migrants and seasonal workers living in rural and hard to reach areas

MMERI Communication Channels Website: http://mmeri.famu.edu/ MMERI Forum Radio Podcast: http://mmeri.famu.edu/podcasts/ MMERI Videocast: http://mmeri.famu.edu/videocasts/ MMERI Repository: http://mmeri.famu.edu/repository/ Conversations on Cannabis Facebook Conversations on Cannabis Instagram: @famucannabis Conversations on Cannabis Twitter: @famucannabis Conversations on Cannabis YouTube Basic Medical Marijuana Education Course: http://mmeri.famu.edu/education/

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COMMUNICATIONS ACTIVITIES: Forum Radio Programs/Podcasts/ Videocasts* *New Forums programs will be produced in English, Spanish and Haitian-Creole languages in the 2nd or 3rd quarters of 2020-2021.

Frequency: Weekly (12 per quarter)

Paid Advertising — Traditional/Digital •

Radio

•

Television

•

Social media

•

Digital media

•

Print media

•

Outdoor/out of home media

Frequency: On-going

E-newsletters Content: Look ahead and look back; timely news/ opportunistic communications; FDOH Know the Facts information

Frequency: Bimonthly (2 per quarter)

Website / Repository Updates Frequency: On-going

Social Media Posts and Engagement (Facebook/Twitter/Instagram/YouTube) Frequency: On-going

Media Relations

Direct Mail •

Postcards sent to households in rural and urban areas statewide

•

Target residences identified by demographics and geography

Frequency: 1-2 mailings per quarter

Collaterals •

Partner toolkits

•

Videos

•

Flyers

•

Posters

•

Fact sheets

•

Shareable graphics

•

Advertisements

•

Photography

•

Quarterly reports

•

News releases

•

Annual report

•

Statements

•

Banners (print and digital)

•

Media advisories and engagements

•

Reporter interviews

Frequency: On-going 44

Educate. Learn. Talk.

Frequency: On-going

2020-2021 ACTION PLAN 1ST QUARTER TIMELINE July 2020 Component

Education. Communications.

Tactics

Activity/Action

Responsibility

Status

Train the Trainer

MMERI

In Progress

Basic Medical Marijuana Education Curriculum

MMERI

In Progress

E-newsletter distribution

MMERI

Done

Website Updates

MMERI and Partners

In Progress

MMERI Videocasts released each week on FAMU TV

MMERI and Partners

In Progress

Public Service Announcements (Radio/ TV)

MMERI and Partners

In Progress

Create internal report of all activities, reach, survey data and testimonials

MMERI and Partners

In Progress

In progress (implementation); On-target (planning, awaiting implementation); Done (completed)

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August 2020 Component

Education. Community Engagement. Communications.

Tactics

Activity/Action

Responsibility

Status

Train the Trainer

MMERI

In Progress

Online Basic Medical Marijuana Education Course

MMERI

In Progress

E-newsletter distribution Look ahead and Look back

MMERI

In Progress

Postcard distribution: Introduction to MMERI and Conversations on Cannabis Forum Event Date and Communications Channels

MMERI

In Progress

Panel Presentation: HBCU Cannabis Equity Initiative Virtual Learning Community, the Truths and Falsehoods of Cannabis

MMERI

On Target

Postcard Distribution Invite to Conversations on Cannabis Forum Event and Promotion of Communications Channels

MMERI and Partners

On Target

Conversations on Cannabis Virtual Forum Event streamed on MMERI social media channels

MMERI and Partners

On Target

MMERI Videocast/Podcast Release

MMERI and Partners

On Target

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Educate. Learn. Talk.

August 2020 (cont.)

Tactics (cont.)

Activity/Action

Responsibility

Status

MMERI and Partners

On Target

Media Relations

MMERI and Partners

On Target

Digital and Social Media Campaign

MMERI and Partners

On Target

Public Service Announcements (Radio/ TV)

MMERI and Partners

On Target

Website Updates

MMERI and Partners

On Target

Create internal report of all activities, reach, survey data and testimonials

MMERI and Partners

On Target

Develop and distribute event invites and materials to partners, influencers and stakeholders to share.

•

Translate materials into Spanish and Haitian-Creole.

•

Content to include:

•

Event links

•

Media advisory

•

Eblast copy

•

Social media posts and shareable graphics

•

Other

In progress (implementation); On-target (planning, awaiting implementation); Done (completed)

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September 2020 Component

Education. Community Engagement. Communications.

Tactics

Activity/Action

Responsibility

Status

Train the Trainer

MMERI

In Progress

Online Basic Medical Marijuana Education Course

MMERI

In Progress

Online Intermediate Education Curriculum Launch

MMERI

In Progress

E-newsletter distribution Look ahead and Look back

MMERI

On Target

Conversations on Cannabis Facebook Live Event

MMERI and Partners

On Target

Focus Group Protocol

MMERI

On Target

Community Education Grant Program

MMERI and Partners

On Target

MMERI Videocast/Podcast Release

MMERI and Partners

On Target

MMERI and Partners

On Target

Develop and distribute event invites and materials to partners, influencers and stakeholders to share.

•

Translate materials into Spanish and Haitian-Creole.

•

Content to include:

•

Event links

•

Media advisory

•

Eblast copy

•

Social media posts and shareable graphics

•

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Other

September 2020 (cont.)

Tactics (cont.)

Activity/Action

Responsibility

Status

Media Relations

MMERI and Partners

On Target

Digital and Social Media Campaign

MMERI and Partners

On Target

Public Service Announcements (Radio/ TV)

MMERI and Partners

On Target

Website Updates

MMERI and Partners

On Target

Create internal report of all activities, reach, survey data and testimonials

MMERI and Partners

On Target

In progress (implementation); On-target (planning, awaiting implementation); Done (completed)

Core Metrics •

Website visits (Google Analytics)

•

Material downloads

•

E-newsletter sign ups

•

Requests for information

•

Digital and social media analytics, including reach, impressions, click-through rate, downloads and user engagement

•

Estimated listenership and circulation of print, radio and outdoor advertising

•

Audience attendance at events, programs and activities (virtual and in-person)

•

Responses to pre- and post-activity surveys and questionnaires

•

Audience sentiment, share of voice, public commentary

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FISCAL YEAR 2020-2021 BUDGET For Fiscal Year 20/21, which spans July 1, 2020, through June 30, 2021, the MMERI program proposes an operating budget of $5.440 million. The MMERI team has built and continues to grow a rich and diverse partnership base that we intend to leverage. These partnerships, along with lessons learned during pre-implementation, implementation and operations phases, will be brought to bear in advancing our legislative mandate during FY20/21. The below proposed spending plan presents insights into some of the ambitious outcome-driven efforts planned for the year as evidenced in the strategic first quarter education plan, with timelines on page 39.

Proposed Spending Plan by Category Salaries and Benefits The proposed budget amount for this category remains at 12% (or lower) of the operating budget. The allocation is expected to support personnel responsible for implementing the program’s mandate and allows for additional staffing to assist with grants coordination and technical assistance, among other assigned duties. Ongoing supported personnel include the following: •

Interim Executive Director

•

Budget and Program Manager

•

Program Administrator

•

Public Affairs Liaison

•

Communications Liaison

Expense/Equipment/Supplies and Other This category has a proposed allocation of $40,000 for supporting equipment and supplies, as well as onsite training venues and culturally linguistically competent educational materials for targeted and specialized groups.

Travel The MMERI program proposes a $50,000 budget allocation for travel. Funds will help support boots-on-the-ground education and community engagement outreach and help foster onsite technical assistance and/or support efforts as the pandemic eases and allows for travel.

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Contractual and Professional Services The proposed spending amount of $3.825 million for this category will support statewide media campaigns, community engagements, educational outreach, communications, collaterals and extensive education outreach partnerships with nonprofit organizations and State University System (SUS) institutions.

The operating budget proposes a 12-month allocation of about $2 million in financial assistance grants to support a targeted comprehensive statewide education outreach and Train the Trainer education campaigns. Such initiatives will be sustained through partnerships with a broad range of nonprofit organizations and State University System (SUS) institutions across the state. The MMERI team will evaluate interested entities to ensure they have stable operating infrastructures to reach targeted demographics, populations and communities whether in rural and/or urban areas despite limitations by the coronavirus pandemic.

Funds in this category will also be utilized for multimedia education and community engagement, and communications campaign efforts targeting multigenerational, multi-ethnic and broadly diverse populations and subpopulations across the state.

Evidence-Based Studies A balance of $58,498.91 in unobligated FY19/20 funds is reallocated to the completion of evidence-based studies started in that fiscal year. No new funds will be added or allocated for evidence-based studies.

Operating Reserve Funds 1.8% of operating budget is allocated as reserve funds to be utilized as needed for program operations in categories A2, A3 and A4.

Indirect Cost (F&A) FAMU’s agreed upon F&A rate for MMERI is calculated at 15% of total direct costs. F&A is only charged after an expenditure has occurred and designed to partially reimburse the University for the administrative costs associated with items such as human resources, among others.

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Program Name: Medical Marijuana Education and Research Initiative (MMERI) July 1, 2020 - June 30, 2021

Budget Category

Proposed FY 20/21 Budget

A. Admin & Operational Costs A1. Salaries & Benefits $ 650,328.00 A1. Subtotal

$ 650,328.00

A2. Expense/Equipment/ Supplies/ Other $ 40,000.00 A2. Subtotal

$ 40,000.00

A3. Travel $ 50,000.00 A3. Subtotal

$ 50,000.00

A4. Contracted and Professional Services $ 3,825,000.00 A4. Subtotal

$ 3,825,000.00

A5. Evidence-Based Studies $ 58,498.91 A5. Subtotal

$ 58,498.91

A6. Operational Reserve $ 100,000.00 A6. Subtotal

$ 100,000.00

Total Direct Costs

$ 4,723,826.91

B. Administrative/Indirect Costs B1. Indirect Cost (F&A)

$ 708,574.04

B1. Subtotal

$ 708,574.04

Budget Total

$ 5,432,400.95

Note: *Revenue is typically disbursed after each quarter ended. Therefore, revenue disbursed during 4th quarter of FY 2020/2021 may not be received until 1st quarter FY2021/2022

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FY 2019-2020 Budget Summary Proposed Operating Budget

$ 5,440,000.00

FY 19/20 Balance

$ 2,349,401.13

*Projected Revenue 1st, 2nd & 3rd Qtrs FY20/21

$ 3,000,000.00

Projected Spending

$ 5,432,400.95

FY 20/21 Expected Revenue + FY19/20 Balance

$ 5,349,401.13

Projected Balance

$ (82,999.82)

Budget Category Description Interim Executive Director/Budget-Program Manager/Program Administrator/Public Affairs Liaison/ Communications Liaison Equipment/supplies/statewide training venues/logistics/culturally linguistically competent collateral and other educational materials for targeted and specialized groups Extensive statewide travel by MMERI team for education campaings and community engagement activities in advancement of MMERI legislative mandate Statewide media campaign, community engagement/educational outreach/ communications/collaterals/ extensive education outreach partnerships with nonprofits and SUS Institutions Evidence-based studies are expected to provide insight into the more complex areas involving medical marijuana use and the impact of the unlawful use of marijuana on minority communities.

FAMU’s agreed upon F&A rate for MMERI is calculated at a reduced rate of 15% of total direct costs (expenditures).

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Appendix A

31. Faith Health Network

Directory of Community Engagement and Outreach Partner

32. Families First Network of Lakeview

Groups (faith-based, law-Enforcement, colleges and universities,

33. FAMU National Alumni Association

community-based organizations, health organizations, etc.)

1.

Affordable Care Clinics

2.

African-American Research Library and Cultural Center

3.

Akbar Law Firm

4.

Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc./ Delta Iota Omega Chapter

5.

Axcess Pharmacy

6.

Baptist Healthcare

7.

Barrineau Park Community Center

8.

Barrineau Park Historical Society

9.

Black Farmers and Agriculturalists of Florida

10. Brownsville Community Resource Center 11. Cantonment Family Medicine 12. Cantonment Improvement Committee 13. CDAC Behavioral Healthcare, Inc. 14. Century Village Pembroke Pines 15. Chinese Association of Tallahassee 16. City of Miami Gardens 17. City of Palm Bay 18. Cognitive Big Data Systems 19. Community Action Program Committee, Inc. (CAPC) 20. Community Healthcare Northwest Florida 21. Comprehensive Health Center 22. CVS Pharmacy 23. Danzy Bail Bonds 24. Earl Britt, MD 25. ECAT – Transit Marketing 26. Economy Drug Store 27. Edward Waters College 28. Ellen Grizzle, PhD

34. First Baptist Church of Piney Grove 35. First West Florida Baptist District Association 36. Florida Department of Juvenile Justice 37. Florida Association of Community Action 38. Florida Rights Restoration Coalition 39. Gadsden County Health Council 40. Gary Joseph, MD, Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine 41. Grassroots Leadership 42. Grassroots Wellness 43. Greater Frenchtown Revitalization Council 44. Greater Little Rock Baptist Church 45. Gulf Coast Minority Chamber of Commerce 46. Health and Wellness Centers of North Florida 47. HELIO 48. Honorable Dr. Henry Lowe, PhD 49. Herve Damas, MD, MBA 50. Hillsborough County Public Schools 51. Hispanic Federation 52. Hispanic Services Council 53. Hispanic Unity of Florida 54. InterCultural Advocacy Institute 55. Jeffrey Block, MD 56. Lakeview Center 57. Latino Leadership 58. Lauderhill Police Department 59. Lauderhill Towne Center Library 60. Leo Bridgewater, Veteran 61. Leon County Sheriff’s Office 62. Letresia Wilson, MD

29. Escambia County Neighborhood and Human Services Department

63. Lighthouse Foundation, Inc.

30. Escambia County Sheriff’s Office

64. LULAC Florida

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65. Macedonia Missionary Baptist Church

66. Marthe Brun, Community Member

99. Panhandle Area Education Consortium

67. Max-Olivier Carre, Naturalist

100. Pensacola Habitat for Humanity

68. Medical Marijuana Treatment Clinics of Florida

101. Pensacola Police Department

69. Medicus Cannabus

102. Pompano Christian Clergy Council

70. Melbourne Police Department

103. Powerhouse COGIC

71. Miami-Dade County Community Advocacy

104. Prospera Florida

72. Miami-Dade Police Department

105. Quintette Community Center

73. Mimose Hyppolite, Community Member

106. ReleafMD

74. Miramar Library

107. Restoring the Village

75. Modern Woodmen Fraternal

108. Robert Robino Productions

76. Most Worshipful Union Grand Lodge (Prince Hall Affiliated Masons)

109. Robert W Saunders, Sr. Public Library

77. Mother Wit Institute, Inc. 78. Mount Bethel Human Services Corporation 79. Mount Calvary Missionary Baptist Church 80. My Florida Families/Florida Department of Children and Families

110. Roberto Dorneval, Community Member 111. Sanders-Beach Corinne Jones Resource Center 112. Sickle Cell Disease Association 113. Sixth Avenue Missionary Baptist Church 114. Southwest Focal Point Senior Center

81. Naleo Educational Fund

115. St. John Progressive Missionary Baptist Church

82. National Alliance for Hispanic Health

116. Tampa Hispanic Heritage Inc.

83. National Coalition of 100 Black Women/Pensacola Chapter

117. Tampa Police Department

84. National Hispanic Medical Association

118. The Holistic Cannabis Community

85. Neville Ballin, MD

119. The MaxOut Church

86. NORML Central Florida

120. Tiffany Bowden, PhD

87. NORML Tallahassee

121. Total Pain Relief

88. North Dade Regional Library

122. Town of Century Florida

89. North Florida Hispanic Association

123. Trulieve

90. Northwest Florida Area Agency on Aging Inc./Aging and Disability Resource Center

124. UF Health Shands Pastoral Services Team

91. Northwest Florida Heart Group 92. Oasis/Florida Department of Health 93. Office of State Attorney, 13th Judicial Circuit 94. Office of State Attorney, 2nd Judicial Circuit 95. Olympia Compounding Pharmacy 96. Orange County Sheriff’s Office 97. Order of the Easter Star – Jerusalem Chapter 98. P3 Community Church

125. University of West Florida 126. Valencia Community College 127. Veriheal 128. Wedgewood Community Center and Park 129. West Florida Baptist District Association 130. Whole Child Leon 131. Wholistic ReLeaf 132. Woodland Heights Neighborhood Association

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Appendix B Below are links to MMERI-owned channels (links to website, podcast, links to PSAs, newsletter signup), and media clips and news coverage about the program.

News About MMERI •

May 24, 2020 Tallahassee Democrat

MMERI Communication Channels

Campus Notes: FAMU’s College of Education earns CAEP accreditation

•

Website: http://mmeri.famu.edu/

•

MMERI Forum Radio Podcast:

campus-notes-famus-college-education-earns-

http://mmeri.famu.edu/podcasts/

accreditation/5249265002/

•

MMERI Videocast: http://mmeri.famu.edu/videocasts/

https://www.tallahassee.com/story/news/2020/05/24/

•

April 29, 2020 Tallahassee Magazine

•

Conversations on Cannabis Facebook

•

Conversations on Cannabis Instagram: @famucannabis

•

Conversations on Cannabis Twitter: @famucannabis

•

Conversations on Cannabis YouTube

A Growing Issue https://issuu.com/rowlandpublishing/docs/20tmmj_ digitaledition_linked/28 •

April 23, 2020 NewsBreak FAMU MMERI Launches Medical Marijuana Videocast

•

Basic Medical Marijuana Education Course:

https://www.newsbreak.com/news/0OqYMjWO/famu-

http://mmeri.famu.edu/education/

mmeri-launches-medical-marijuana-videocast •

April 16, 2020 Medium HBCU’s Engage the Cannabis Industry https://medium.com/@marijuanamatters/hbcus-engagethe-cannabis-industry-f9aeea749366

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Appendix C How Florida’s Medical Marijuana Law Led to the Creation of MMERI at FAMU Section 381.986, Florida Statutes (F.S.), better known as Florida’s medical marijuana law, includes a funding provision that entrusts Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University with “educating minorities about marijuana for medical use and the impact of the unlawful use of marijuana on minority communities.” The following excerpt from the statute set in motion the creation of FAMU’s Medical Marijuana Education & Research Initiative. To read the entire statute, go to http://www.leg.state.fl.us/statutes/index.cfm?App_mode=Display_Statute&URL=0300-0399/0381/ Sections/0381.986.html IDENTIFICATION CARDS.— (d) Applications for identification cards must be submitted on a form prescribed by the department. The department may charge a reasonable fee associated with the issuance, replacement, and renewal of identification cards. The department shall allocate $10 of the identification card fee to the Division of Research at Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University for the purpose of educating minorities about marijuana for medical use and the impact of the unlawful use of marijuana on minority communities. The department shall contract with a third-party vendor to issue identification cards.

The vendor selected by the department must have experience performing similar functions for other state agencies.

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CONTACT US

625 E. Tennessee Street Suite 210 Tallahassee, Florida 32308 (850) 561-2456 MMERI@famu.edu

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