Alexander Anderson was a member of the first cohort of Ritual4Return graduates in 2009. Alex served 15 years behind bars in New York State. He earned his Bachelor of Arts degree from Syracuse University in the Auburn Correctional Facility and, upon release, obtained his Masters of Social Work from Hunter College. Alexander was awarded the Patient Safety Champion Award at Lincoln Hospital for supporting patients seeking cessation from alcohol and drugs in the emergency room. He lives in the Bronx with his wife.