Wilkes University’s College of Health and Education is set to host a Mental Health and Wellbeing Forum event aimed at fostering mental health and wellbeing awareness among local school professionals.
The Mental Health and Wellbeing Forum is scheduled to take place on Wednesday, September 27, from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. The event will be held at the Adams Commons on the second floor of the Henry Student Center.
It’s a significant opportunity for educators, counselors, nurses, and staff members who work with Pre-K to 12 students in the vicinity.
The forum is not only a chance for professional development but also a means to contribute to the betterment of the community.
Attendees can participate free of charge and will have the chance to earn Act 48 continuing education credits for educators, or continuing education credits through the Pennsylvania State Nurses Association.
Mental Health And Wellbeing Forum To Provide A Nurturing Environment
Over the span of two hours, the Mental Health and Wellbeing Forum will delve into the crucial distinctions between mental wellness and mental illness.
It will also put a spotlight on themes of safety, social-emotional learning, empowerment, and advocacy.
The overarching goal is to create a comprehensive understanding of trauma-informed principles that can be integrated into both institutional and community settings.
By doing so, the initiative seeks to cater to the needs of local school stakeholders, enabling them to provide a nurturing environment that encourages students to make positive contributions to society.
The panel for this forum comprises a range of experts who bring diverse perspectives to the table.
Nicole Hummer, a school counselor from the Hanover Area School District, will share insights from her practical experience.
Joining her are esteemed faculty members from Wilkes University: Todd Hastings, an assistant professor of undergraduate nursing; Vicki Jones, an assistant professor of master’s education; Dana Manning, an associate professor of pharmacy practice; Andrea Mantione, an assistant professor of undergraduate nursing; and Lori Cooper, an associate professor of doctoral education.
Together, they will provide a well-rounded view of mental health and wellbeing considerations from both professional and academic angles.
The importance of mental health and wellbeing in educational settings cannot be overstated. The forum acknowledges this significance by addressing the unique challenges faced by school professionals in nurturing the holistic development of their students.
It also underscores the university’s commitment to fostering collaborative efforts between academia and local communities, all geared toward creating a positive and supportive environment for the younger generation.
As the event approaches, anticipation is building among local educators and professionals who recognize the pivotal role they play in shaping the mental health landscape for students.
The Mental Health and Wellbeing Forum at Wilkes University promises to be an engaging and enlightening experience, fostering awareness, knowledge, and practical strategies that can have a lasting impact on the lives of students and the community at large.