Eric Dugan, a Mental Health Professional, Process Improvement Specialists, Creative Writer, Spoken Word Artist, and Social Justice Activist is passionate about spreading the message of love with the power from words and action in the local community. He believes we must all align to our inner selves to achieve the better world we all desperately want to see. Eric writes and speaks on a range of topics that includes Race/Cultural sensitivity, Religion/Spirituality, Addiction, and Mental Illness. He is well known for his authenticity and vulnerability and inspires others to do the same. Eric performs at various venues in the city of Richmond and was a two-time qualifying finalist in the Richmond Grand Slam. He is an integral Staff Member of Tuesday Verses and the Writers Den, as well as a respected volunteer at Community 5050. Eric’s own knowledge and beliefs were shaped from his own experiences, as well as his educational background that includes a bachelor’s degree from Virginia Commonwealth University in Psychology with a minor in Religious studies and an additional focus on Social Justice. In addition to his education, Eric has worked as a process engineer at Capital One and earned a Six Sigma Black Belt and ScrumMaster Certification. He continues to use these skills to help shape the life he wants. Eric is available for live interviews, artist bookings, and as an Activist or Spokesman for organizations that align to love, hope, racial sensitivity, and/or overcoming addiction or mental illness.