Meet the Team

I am... the Director of the Center for Campus Wellness

In my role, I... share my expertise as a health education specialist and accomplished program developer to direct the mission, vision, and strategic future of the Center for Campus Wellness. I have the privilege of workingn alongside an incredible team of talented and driven individuals who serve our campus community. 

Contact me about...  any questions regarding our work or for building partnerships!

What is your specialty area, program of study, or interest area?

• Doctorate in Health and Kinesiology
• Master of Science in Health Promotion and Education
• Master Certified Health Education Specialist
• Certified Intuitive Eating Counselor

What is one thing that brings you joy? Spending time with family, creating meals together, and snuggling the best pup in the world, Max.

What is a health and wellness fun fact you love sharing with others? Cultural wellness - I've spent some time researching my family origin stories that were lost due to violence and war which has helped me to not only learn about my heritage but find connections to my life today and cultivate a sense of gratitude.

I am... the Manager of Health Education Programs

In my role, I...  support our health education team by overseeing our sexual wellness, substance use and harm reduction, and mental health programming. I also support our team in awareness campaigns such as Suicide Prevention Awareness Month (SPAM), Domestic Violence Awareness Month (DVAM), and Sexual Assault Awareness Month (SAAM). I strive to provide education and awareness to campus by ensuring our programs are evidence-informed and collaborative.

What is your specialty area, program of study, or interest area?

• Master of Science in Health and Kinesiology, Health Education Specialist and Wellness Coaching
• National Board Certified Health and Wellness Coach
• Certified Health Education Specialist
• Specialty areas:  Health Education, Wellness Coaching, and Harm Reduction and Substance Use Recovery

What is one thing that brings you joy? I find a lot of joy in reading. I primarily read romance or mystery novels, but I also read some nonfiction, fantasy, and thrillers. I’ll try anything!

Tell us about a healthy habit you are developing in one of the nine dimensions of wellness: I am working hard on my sleep habits currently, which falls under my physical wellness. I am a natural night owl, so I have been working to find ways to still feel rested while having to be up early in the morning. 

What is your specialty area, program of study, or interest area? Health Education Specialist and Wellness Coaching

What is a health and wellness fun fact you love sharing with others? Wellbeing is a state, and self-esteem is as important to our wellbeing as legs are to a table.

Tell us about a healthy habit you are developing in one of the nine dimensions of wellness: I am working on my physical wellness, I spent sometime to engage gym activities every alternate day.

I am... the Manager of Student Wellness Initiatives

In my role, I... oversee the daily operations of our Student Involvement Opportunities and Wellness Coaching programs including but not limited to, supervision and staffing support for the undergraduate students and graduate assistants, planning and execution of evidence-based health campaigns and campus events, data collection and program evaluation, and cross-campus collaborations in outreach supports and education initiatives. I work to create a campus where students can build their skills and pursue professional development in wellness careers and access professional coaching support that can nurture their holistic success at the University of Utah.

What is your specialty area, program of study, or interest area?

• Master of Science in Health and Kinesiology, Health Education Specialist and Wellness Coaching
• National Board Certified Health and Wellness Coach
• Certified Health Education Specialist
• Specialty areas: Wellness Coaching, Health Education, and Resource Navigation

What is one thing that brings you joy? I find joy in so many things! Good food, time with family (especially my nieces and nephews), baking, reading, and getting outside when I can all bring joy to my life

What is a health and wellness fun fact you love sharing with others? Spending time outside every day (for just 15 minutes!) can boost your mood, improve your cognitive function (memory and learning), reduce stress, and boost your mental health. 

I am a... Health Educator and I coordinate our Domestic Violence Awareness Month Campaign and safe(r) sex supply distribution program.

What is your specialty area, program of study, or interest area?

• Bachelor's of Science in Health and Physical Education K-12 
• National Board Certified Health and Wellness Coach
• Specialty areas: Health Education, Sexual Wellness

What is one thing that brings you joy? One thing that brings me joy is spending time with friends and family. My family and I recently did a 33k trail race in Prescott, Arizona together, which was so enjoyable because it wrapped up all my favorite things in one; spending time with the people I love, exercising, being in nature and experiencing a new environment.  

Tell us about a healthy habit you are developing in one of the nine dimensions of wellness: I have been working on developing my physical wellness by doing activities like mountain biking and trail running. This has been a great way for me to create fun and healthy habits, make new friends, test my physical strength and experience more of beautiful Utah!

I am a... Health Educator and I oversee our substance use recovery and harm reduction programs, including the training and distribution of Naloxone. 

What is your specialty area, program of study, or interest area?

• Master of Public Health with an emphasis in Health Education and Promotion
• Specialty areas: Health Education and Substance Use Recovery and Harm Reduction

What is one thing that brings you joy? My family brings me joy! My husband and I have recently been playing a lot of pickleball, which has been super fun and gets us moving! We also enjoy camping, boating (I love to waterski & go boating with my parents/siblings), watching movies, and just spending time with each other. 

Tell us about a healthy habit you are developing in one of the nine dimensions of wellness: Since recently graduating, I have been trying to improve my physical wellness. Taking care of your physical wellness in college can be tough while managing all of the work, school, and social demands! I specifically want to work on making sure I'm getting good sleep and creating time for exercise.  

I am a... basic needs resource coordinator and I support students in navigating access to everyday essentials. This can include things like food, housing, healthcare, etc.  Together we identify where more support is needed, and then I can provide information about campus and community resources that may be able to help. 

What is your specialty area, program of study, or interest area?

• Bachelor's of Science in Gender Studies
• Specialty areas: Resource Navigation

Tell us about a healthy habit you are developing in one of the nine dimensions of wellness:

I've been prioritizing my physical and emotional wellness by developing a love for running. For the past year, I've had the chance to be outside and move my body in a new and challenging way. It's helped me feel more energized and focused. It's also served as a meditative practice, and it allows me to process emotions in a way that lets them leave my body instead of festering under the surface.  

What is one thing that brings you joy?

Moments outside in nature have always brought me a lot of joy. I love the chance to take my dog to the park or go hiking with my partner. I look forward to the small breaks I take during the work day to watch the squirrels on campus or identify a birdcall I am unfamiliar with. 

I am a... basic needs resource coordinator and I provide personalized support to students as they navigate housing, food, healthcare, childcare, transportation, you name it! In addition, I specialize in interpreting resources into Spanish para que todos entiendan claramente los recursos disponibles y cómo usarlos.

Beyond supporting students one-on-one, I am constantly thinking of ways to make sure everyone has what they need, not only to survive but to thrive! 

What is your specialty area, program of study, or interest area?

• Bachelor's of Arts in Political Science
• Specialty areas: Resource Navigation

Tell us about a healthy habit you are developing in one of the nine dimensions of wellness:

Lately, I’ve been prioritizing regular movement—going to the gym, hiking, and swimming—as part of my physical wellness. I also make time to unwind with loved ones and my dogs, which helps me stay emotionally grounded and show up with more balance and compassion in daily life.

What is one thing that brings you joy?

The thing that brings me joy is spending quality time with my friends, family, and my two dogs—Milo (a corgi) and Champi (a terrier mix). I recharge by going to the gym, hiking trails, swimming, and catching $5 movies at the Megaplex on Tuesdays. I also love cooking and traveling with my husband. These moments of rest and connection help me stay grounded and maintain the emotional balance needed to show up fully and with compassion in my work. 

I am...  a Victim-Survivor Advocate.

In my role, I... support those who have been impacted by harm through one-on-one strengths-based advocacy, safety planning, and resource connection. My number one priority is to help survivors feel safe, supported, and empowered to decide what is best for their own individual healing journey.  Additionally, I help plan and facilitate our Solidari-Tea and Reimagining Healing events, as well as our Compassionate Responses workshop.  

What is your specialty area, program of study, or interest area?

• Bachelor of Science in Child and Family Studies
• Certified Program Assistant for Utah's Safe at Home Address Confidentiality Program  
• Specialty areas: Violence and Harm Support, Resource Navigation

What is one thing that brings you joy?

They say laughter is the best medicine, and I wholeheartedly agree. Anything that makes me laugh—watching funny videos, cracking jokes, and doing silly dances with loved ones—brings me great joy.  

Tell us about a healthy habit you are developing in one of the nine dimensions of wellness:

Recently, my partner and I have been taking walks specifically to birdwatch. Not only has this practice helped my physical wellness, but also my emotional wellness. Intentionally listening for bird calls and trying to identify them has been a great practice in mindfulness and connecting with nature. 

I am... the Manager of the Basic Needs Collective.

In my role, I... oversee the daily operations of the Basic Needs Collective including but not limited to, supervision and staffing support for the Basic Needs team, data collection and program evaluation, and cross-campus collaborations in outreach supports and education initiatives. I work to create a campus where students can access the essential resources they need to thrive at the University of Utah.

What is your specialty area, program of study, or interest area?

• Bachelor's of Arts in History Teaching
• Specialty areas: Resource Navigation

What is one thing that brings you joy? I love finding joy in small everyday moments like reading a good book during my commute home, enjoying a warm cup of freshly brewed coffee, and resting. Meaningful connections with family, friends, and loved ones is another source of joy. 

Tell us about a healthy habit you are developing in one of the nine dimensions of wellness: Cultural wellness; I've recently had the opportunity to visit extended family outside of the U.S. and it brought me an immense sense of joy, belonging, community, and memories related to food, medicine, and other cultural practices. I'm working on maintaining and strengthening those connections until my next visit!

I am... a communications specialist and involvement coordinator.

In my role, I... organize tabling activities, campus event involvement, and marketing strategies, as well as oversee our social media presence.

What is your specialty area, program of study, or interest area?

• Master of Science in Public Health (In Progress)
• Bachelor's of Science in Communication
• Specialty areas: Strategic Communication
  
  

What is one thing that brings you joy?My family! My husband and our twins are my whole world.

What is a health and wellness fun fact you love sharing with others? Did you know reading fiction can increase empathy, reduce stress, and even improve sleep? Reading has always been one of my favorite hobbies and I love that it can improve my wellbeing too!

I am... the Associate Director of Prevention Education 

In my role, I... provide strategic oversight and direction to several student-facing programs including Mental Health First Aid, Sexual Wellness, Alcohol and Substance Use, and Health Education in collaboration with dedicated managers and professional staffand ensure our work upholds the best practices of our field. My role also includes establishing assessment protocols to track the effectiveness of our programs, managing program budgets, and grant development and reporting.

Contact me about... collaborating on tailored programs for clubs, academic programs, or other groups (such as housing, athletics, etc), learning about our health education and promotion programs and services, and more!

What is your specialty area, program of study, or interest area?

• Bachelor's of Art in Fine and Studio Arts
• National Board Certified Health and Wellness Coach
• Specialty areas: Administration, Health Education, Harm Reduction & Substance Recovery, Resource Navigation,  Sexual Wellness,  and  Wellness Coaching 

What is one thing that brings you joy? Collecting rocks in nature

What is a health and wellness fun fact you love sharing with others? Some new research over the last year shows that "movement snacks," or brief movement breaks throughout the day are actually better for you than a dedicated hour of exercise each day, because it helps to regulate your blood sugar throughout the day, provides a better balance for folks who have sedentary jobs, and increases mood and energy throughout the day. 

I am... the Associate Director of Advocacy Services 

In my role, I... provide strategic oversight and direction to two student-facing programs, the Basic Needs Collective and the Victim Survivor Advocacy program, in collaboration with dedicated managers and professional staff and ensure our work upholds the best practices of our field.

Contact me about... collaborating on initiatives to improve campus safety and access to basic needs or to learn more about our violence prevention, advocacy, and resource navigation services!

What is your specialty area, program of study, or interest area?

• Master of Science in Social Work
• Certified Social Worker
• Specialty areas: Administration, Resource Navigation, and Violence and Harm Support

What is one thing that brings you joy? Collecting rocks in nature

What is a health and wellness fun fact you love sharing with others? You don’t have to earn rest. Rest is a part of justice, recovery, and long-term sustainability, especially for people doing care or advocacy work.

Share something you've learned during your time in this role:One thing I’ve learned at CCW is that change is constant, and a healthy, supported team is key to navigating that change with resilience and adaptability. With the right foundation, we can continue to offer sustainable student support and impactful programming, even in the face of challenges.

Tell us about a healthy habit you are developing in one of the nine dimensions of wellness:  I’ve been leaning into my third place, where I practice yoga and find clarity through movement, connection, and community. 

I am a... health communications specialist.

In my role, I... produce our monthly newsletter, manage internal communication channels (i.e. website, educational material development, merchandising, advertising, signage, development) to drive high engagement, accessibility, and improved health literacy toward enhancing student well-being. I mentor student staff in the creation of informative and welcoming wellness content on our blog and support initiatives to fortify communications practices as a departmental strategic liaison for Student Health and Wellness. 

What is your specialty area, program of study, or interest area?

• Master of Science in Health and Kinesiology, Health Education Specialist and Wellness Coaching (In Progress) 
• Honors Bachelor's of Science in Health, Society, and Policy, minor in Political Science
• Honors Bachelor's of Science in Gender Studies, minor in Sociology
• Certificates in Community Engagement, Undergraduate Research, and Diabetes Prevention Lifestyle Coaching
• Specialty areas: Strategic Communications

Tell us about a healthy habit you are developing in one of the nine dimensions of wellness: Intellectual wellness - As I start my graduate program, I'm excited to return to the classroom and dive into learning! This summer, I've organized my home office, set dedicated time blocks for coursework, and practiced holding my boundaries with friends and family to ensure I have time to study each day. While tricky at first, I've learned that the folks who support me are understanding if I need to cancel or reschedule plans when my coursework goals haven't been met for the week. It's encouraging to have a support system that sees how important this chapter is for me, and it helps me see that setting my boundaries helps me build trust in my relationships and achieve my academic goals!

I am... a Graduate Assistant who coordinates the Recovery at the U program and I support students seeking recovery and support with addiction-related challenges by sharing resources and overseeing our collaboration with the Sober Club to build a vibrant community around substance-free activities. I am your go-to person for all recovery-related questions or needs!

What is your specialty area, program of study, or interest area?

• Master of Education in Educational Leadership & Policy (In Progress) 
• Bachelor's of Art in Business Management
• Specialty areas: Harm Reduction & Substance Recovery and Health Education

How would you describe your role in the simplest terms?
I help students who are struggling with different types of addictions, not just substance-related, find the resources and community they need to succeed in college.

What is one thing that brings you joy?
I love going on long walks while listening to music — it helps me relax, recharge, and reflect.

I am...  a Victim-Survivor Advocate.

In my role, I... provide confidential support to folks impacted by harm, one-on-one advocacy, educational presentations, and safety planning. I help students understand their rights and options, with the intent that they can be as informed as possible to make the best decision for their healing and support.

In short, I provide intentional support and walk alongside those who have experienced harm so they can regain control over their story, decisions, and next steps towards healing and what that looks like for them.

What is your specialty area, program of study, or interest area?

• Master of Legal Studies
• Bachelor's of Science in Psychology, Criminology, and International Studies
• Certificates in Mediation (in-progress)
• Certified Domestic Violence Community Justice Advocate authorized to provide limited legal services for VSA clients seeking civil protective orders and stalking injunctions
• Specialty areas: Violence and Harm Support, Resource Navigation; Interpreting institutional and state policies in digestible terms for folks who first language may not be english, or may not be able to grasp the jargon.

What is one thing that brings you joy?

Witnessing moments when someone begins to feel like they can attain their goals, they look forward to the journey in reaching their goals, they feel safe again, begins to see hope again, when they feel their voice is heard, and their boundaries are respected. These things bring me joy.

Tell us about a healthy habit you are developing in one of the nine dimensions of wellness:

A healthy habit I’ve been developing is being deeply intentional about how I connect with others. I’ve prioritized presence, gratitude, and emotional safety in my relationships, focusing on building secure, affirming connections that make space for authenticity and healing.

Social wellness for me also means creating collective spaces where none exist, especially for underrepresented, displaced, and overlooked individuals who, like me, have had to navigate systems and experiences without a clear path or support. I’ve initiated spaces of care and community for those who feel unseen, not because I had a blueprint, but because I’ve lived in that in-between space myself.

On my journey, I’ve learned, this work extends to generational healing, too, engaging not only with peers and community members but also with parents and elders who may never have been exposed to these kinds of conversations. Some of them once had these community-based practices but lost them due to displacement, trauma, or survival. Holding space across generations, with humility and empathy, has become a way for me to not only connect but to repair and rebuild. Social wellness, for me, is about choosing presence, creating belonging, and inviting healing, especially where it has long been withheld.

I am... the Administrative Manager.

In my role, I...  oversee the daily administrative operations of the the Center for Campus Wellness including purchasing, accounting, human resources, and event logistics. I’m dedicated to enhancing operational efficiency while nurturing a collaborative and supportive office culture.  

What is your specialty area, program of study, or interest area?

• Bachelor's of Science in Sociology
• Certificates in Education
• Specialty areas: Administrative

What is one thing that brings you joy?  Live music brings me joy. There's something powerful to be found in the connection between the bands with the crowd, and the music itself. The energy, the art, and shared emotion of a live performance can lift your spirit and make you feel fully present.

Tell us about a healthy habit you are developing in one of the nine dimensions of wellness: I’m prioritizing my emotional and spiritual wellness by practicing yoga regularly, sometimes even more than I feel I need, and by exploring my creativity through music. I enjoy crafting playlists that help with emotional release or to boost my mood and energy, while also finding a sense of belonging and unity.

I am... an Office Support Coordinator who keeps our operations running smoothly through administrative support, purchasing, IT assistance, and front desk management. I tackle everyday challenges to maintain efficiency across the office

What is your specialty area, program of study, or interest area?

• Specialty areas: Administrative

What is one thing that brings you joy?  Interacting with people, especially friends and family, brings me joy and connection. I find comfort in meaningful relationships and shared moments. At home, surrounded by my plants, I savor quiet time to read and reflect

Tell us about a healthy habit you are developing in one of the nine dimensions of wellness: Physical wellness - As I get older, my appetite has shifted. Sometimes I’m not hungry in the evenings, but I make sure to eat a balanced dinner that supports my overall health. It’s about honoring what my body needs, even when my appetite doesn’t lead the way.

I am... the Spiritual Chaplain for and Manager of the Spiritual Wellness Program

In my role, I...  work with students, faculty, and staff to explore and connect with their spirituality—all of us have one! Spirituality can be religious, but it is not limited to religion. Through workshops, curriculum and one-on-one meetings, I help people discover their values and how to live in harmony with those to develop resilience, joy, and purpose. My goal is to help create a campus where people feel connected and valued, not for what they do, but just because they are.

What is your specialty area, program of study, or interest area?

• Doctorate in History and ABD
• Master of Arts in History, specializing in women and religious history
• Bachelor of Arts in History
• Ordained Clergy (Metropolitan Community Churches), Religious Education, Samaritan College
• Specialty areas: Spiritual Guidance and Exploration

What is one thing that brings you joy? Connecting people to purpose and joy, especially through community. Humans are made for community! And my family (including my dogs)—they keep me grounded.

Tell us about a healthy habit you are developing in one of the nine dimensions of wellness: I am learning new ways to adapt to the changes age brings! I practice mindful breathing, prayerful meditation, and am embarking on an adventure with Tai Chi. 

I am a... Health Educator and I coordinate our Suicide Prevention Awareness Month (SPAM) campaign and is a passionate wellness coach.

What is your specialty area, program of study, or interest area?

• M.S. in Exercise Science, with a concentration in Health & Fitness Promotion
• Specialty areas: Wellness Coaching, Health Education,  and Harm Reduction

What is one thing that brings you joy? I am an animal enthusiast, and I especially love dogs! I find joy in spending time at home or outdoors with my two dogs, exploring Utah with them.

Share something you've learned during your time at CCW. On my initial day with this team, I was moved by the authenticity and sincerity of every CCW team member. Here, caring for others goes beyond just a title; it's a core part of their way of life.

I am... the Manager of the Basic Needs Collective Program

In my role, I... provide leadership and oversight for the Basic Needs Collective, ensuring the delivery of high-quality, accessible services that support students, faculty, and staff experiencing basic needs insecurity. I also oversee the daily operations of the program, supervise and support professional staff, provide direct case management services, guide program assessment and reporting efforts, and collaborate with campus and community partners to connect individuals with critical resources. 

What is your specialty area, program of study, or interest area?

• Master of Public Administration (MPA), University of Utah

• Bachelor of Arts, Archaeology, Pontificia Universidad Catolica del Peru 
• Specialty areas: Administrative and Resource Navigation

What is one thing that brings you joy?  Spending time with my dogs in the backyard and seeing their little tails wag always brings me joy. I also love watching my native plant garden grow and become an oasis for birds, bees, and other pollinators, and I'm always looking for new spots to add more plants.

What is a health and wellness fun fact you love sharing with others?Did you know cancer screening is a form of self-care? Screening tests are used to find cancer before a person has any symptoms and often help find and treat pre-cancers and cancers early, before they have a chance to spread. 

I am... the Manager of Advocacy Support.

In my role, I...  oversee the daily operations of the Victim Survivor Advocacy program including but not limited to, supervision and staffing support for the advocates, data collection and program evaluation, and cross-campus collaborations in outreach supports and education initiatives. I work to create a safe, healing-centered environment to continually advance campus wellness.  

What is your specialty area, program of study, or interest area?

• Bachelor's of Arts in English Literature
• Bachelor's of Science in Criminal Justice
• Certified Victim Advocate
• Certified Domestic Violence Community Justice Advocate authorized to provide limited legal services for VSA clients seeking civil protective orders and stalking injunctions
• Certified Safe at Home Advocate in Utah's address confidentiality program for survivors of violence
• Specialty areas: Violence and Harm Support and Resource Navigation

What is one thing that brings you joy?  One thing that brings me joy is spending time outside, whether that's a walk with my dog, reading a book out in the sun, or just taking a moment to breathe the fresh air. There's something about being surrounded by natural beauty that helps me recharge and find a sense of peace! It's the simple moments of stillness and connection that really brighten my day.

Tell us about a healthy habit you are developing in one of the nine dimensions of wellness: For physical wellness, one habit I’ve been working on is incorporating more movement into my daily routine. I am working on being more intentional with carving out time to go for wellness walks or to find a quiet space for simple stretching during the day, especially when I'm working long hours and sitting for an extended period of time. Movement helps my mind feel refreshed, active, and ready to approach the work!