7 Questions with the New Director of Health Promotion at Campus Health 

What drew you to the role of Director of Health Promotion at The University of Arizona?  

I have been passionate about supporting students in their college journeys since I began working at the University of Arizona in 2010.  I remember how challenging college was for me and enjoy finding ways to help students during this time of their lives.  When I thought about directing a department whose focus is on student wellbeing, it seemed ideal.   Health Promotion allows me to contribute to resources, strategies, and interventions that address the whole student experience — from nutrition and sleep to mental health, healthy relationships, and beyond.  I felt like this role directly and indirectly helps students have the kind of college experience they want and need for success. 

What do you think are the most pressing health and wellness concerns facing college students today?  

The research (including the Campus Health and Wellness survey administered to U of A students) reveals emotional and mental health concerns continue to be challenges for our students.  We also know that the issue of loneliness has been on the rise for the past few years as students feel disconnected or unsure about how to make friends. I also see the uptick in vaping and the widespread use of marijuana as topics that deserve attention. 

In what ways can students get involved with health promotion efforts on campus?  

One of my favorite things about Campus Health is how much we get to do with students.  We have multiple student-run and student-supported groups which focus on outreach.  The WellCats are an amazing group of students who work to inform others about Campus Health and health topics ranging from alcohol consumption to self-care strategies.  We also have a leadership group that brings together health-related student groups from all over campus.  This group of students runs programming across campus such as Winter Wonderland and Spring into Self-Care promoting stress-reduction during busy times of the semester.  Check out our volunteer page to get involved! 

 What advice would you give students who are trying to prioritize their well-being while balancing academics and life?  

Even though the pressure to succeed can be overwhelming at the college level, when we don’t prioritize some sort of self-love, it can be difficult to manage the stress and, in the end, it takes away from our ability to do as well academically.  For students who have multiple obligations it can feel like an act of self-care is just one more thing to do and I get that, but I would encourage you to consider the cost of not doing it...  To be clear, self-love could be calling a friend on the way to class, stopping for 15 minutes to eat, or ending your day with a short meditation.  

 What’s one long-term change you hope to inspire in the culture of student wellness at The University of Arizona?   

I notice that in some areas of campus, students’ wellbeing is a priority and in other areas it is an afterthought or not ever considered.  I would love it if the way staff, faculty, and instructors constructed their courses, their programs, and their interventions was grounded in consideration of a student’s whole personhood.   

If you had a wellness superpower, what would it be—and why?  

It would be the superpower of connection because I know myself and when I am feeling connected to others it greatly contributes to my contentment and feeling of purpose in life. Building and maintaining meaningful relationships has been shown to be one of the biggest factors in increasing longevity as well.  We are made to be social, and research shows that connections provide emotional support and help reduce stress. 

What’s something students might be surprised to learn about you?  

I love to travel!  Some of my highlights include Panama, Egypt, Iceland, and Switzerland. I also love good food, reading, and finding cute clothes.