Schedule

Presenter: Dave Closson, DJC Solutions
Location:
Track: Alcohol, Tobacco, and Other Drug Prevention
CEUs: CECH credit for CHES, CEUs for counselors, psychologists, & social workers through MIMH, Missouri Credentialing Board for substance use professionals

In ‘Empowering Change,’ we delve into a workshop designed to revolutionize the way we lead by intertwining the essence of vulnerability with the power of purpose. This session stands as a call to action for leaders who aspire to cultivate environments where safety, support, and impactful outcomes are foundational elements of their team’s culture. It’s about the bravery to foster openness and the determination to guide with a compelling vision, ensuring every team member feels an integral part of something greater. Through this experience, we uncover the practices that nurture trust, empower individuals, and connect us all to a deeper mission. We explore how creating a space where every voice is heard and valued can inspire a collective movement toward meaningful community change. This workshop is your pathway to transforming leadership into a beacon of hope and action, where the why of our work ignites the how and the what, propelling our teams toward sustainable impact.

Presenter: Jess Jones (they/them), Director and Principal, Jess Jones Education & Consulting
Location:
Track: Student Health Center Topics sponsored by CCHA
CEUs: CECH credit for CHES, CEUs for counselors, psychologists, & social workers through MIMH, Missouri Credentialing Board for substance use professionals

From student affairs to campus safety and administration to students, we all have a role to play in creating an inclusive campus for LGBTQ+ students. Join us for this interactive workshop and gain the knowledge, tools, and relationships necessary for cultivating a safer, more affirming campus community. Through collaborative activities and open dialogue, participants will learn about the lived experiences and needs of LGBTQ+ students, gain concrete strategies, and identify actionable steps ​for advancing student health, safety, and wellness. This session is designed for all levels of prior knowledge and experience.

Presenter: Kathleen Ratcliff, Executive Director, Upstream Prevention
Location:
Tracks: Alcohol, Tobacco, and Other Drug Prevention, Law Enforcement
CEUs: CECH credit for CHES, CEUs for counselors, psychologists, & social workers through MIMH, Missouri Credentialing Board for substance use professionals, POST for law enforcement

As the addiction and overdose crisis reaches troubling milestones – 100,000 overdose fatalities last year alone – all leaders and key stakeholders in the community are needed to address the problem. The Responding to Addiction training is designed to increase knowledge about addiction and develop skills and strategies to help your community, specifically focused on:

• The Science of Addiction
• The Signs and Symptoms of Addiction
• Evidence-Based Treatment Options
• Medications to Treat Addiction
• Engagement Strategies

Presenter: Andrea L. Kimura, M.Ed., Health Educator, University of Missouri Wellness Resource Center
Location:
Track: Alcohol, Tobacco, and Other Drug Prevention
CEUs: CECH credit for CHES, CEUs for counselors, psychologists, & social workers through MIMH, Missouri Credentialing Board for substance use professionals, Continuing Education for Nurses/Continuing Medical Education

Vaping has become an epidemic. With a staggering 78% increase in high school student use (approximately 3.6 million) and college students who report using tobacco products is up 24%. Those students, 75% reported they used e-cigarettes or other vape products. A common mistaken belief, for individuals wishing to quit using cigarettes, is vapes are a safer alternative. In this session, we will analyze data and evaluate the true cost of vaping on physical and mental health. With an emphasis on the often-overlooked psychological implications, we will explore how vaping contributes to anxiety, depression, and other mental health issues. Attendees will gain valuable insight into the unexpected ways vaping affects mental well-being. You will compare national and regional resources to best serve your campus needs.

Presenter: Megan DeShon-Runge, Hazing Database and Outreach Coordinator, StopHazing
Location:
Track: Violence Prevention
CEUs: CECH credit for CHES, CEUs for counselors, psychologists, & social workers through MIMH, Missouri Credentialing Board for substance use professionals

This session will provide an overview of the new federal legislation, the Stop Campus Hazing Act, and explore how laws shape efforts to promote safer campus environments through prevention, transparency, and accountability. Presenters will provide guidance for developing and enhancing campus hazing transparency reports and hazing prevention websites, introduce HazingInfo -a new resource and database– and discuss the implementation of the bill as an extension of the Clery Act.

Presenter: Philana Liang, MPH, Physician Assistant, Washington University in St. Louis
Location:
Track: Student Health Center Topics sponsored by CCHA
CEUs: CECH credit for CHES, CEUs for counselors, psychologists, & social workers through MIMH, Missouri Credentialing Board for substance use professionals

Participants will learn about three biomedical/biobehavioral methods to prevent HIV and STIs among college students: PrEP, PEP, and DoxyPEP. Each method will be defined, and participants will explore implementation challenges and possible solutions through cases.

Presenter: Jill Maurer, Assistant Director, University of Virginia’s Gordie Center
Location:
Tracks: Violence Prevention, Alcohol, Tobacco, and Other Drug Prevention
CEUs: CECH credit for CHES, CEUs for counselors, psychologists, & social workers through MIMH, Missouri Credentialing Board for substance use professionals

This interactive program reviews the research on the relationship between alcohol and hazing, models engaging ways to provide education to students on standard drink sizes through “bartender school,” and teaches how to identify the signs of alcohol overdose using “PUBS.” You’ll learn ways to engage students in alcohol and hazing education to increase student motivation to be active bystanders by monitoring impaired peers for signs of overdose, never leaving anyone alone to sleep it off, and intervening effectively when they are concerned about hazing.

Presenter: Martha Stevens, Missouri Family Health Council
Location:
Tracks: Student Health Center Topics sponsored by CCHA
CEUs: CECH credit for CHES, CEUs for counselors, psychologists, & social workers through MIMH, Missouri Credentialing Board for substance use professionals

Access to high-quality, client-centered, trauma-informed sexual and reproductive health care and education is a cornerstone of health equity that puts each individual in the driver’s seat of their own life. Join Missouri Family Health Council to discuss the barriers to care that Missourians face and strategies for supporting full access to care across people’s reproductive lives. We’ll discuss statewide resources available for supporting reproductive and sexual health equity, including a focus on access to care for young people, emergency contraception, and navigating the safety net. We will also review the current policy environment as it relates to sexual and reproductive care and provide entry points to stay informed and advocate.

Presenter: Stephanie Murray-Miller, Manager of Health Promotion and Prevention, Missouri S&T
Location:
Tracks: Alcohol, Tobacco, and Other Drug Prevention
CEUs: CECH credit for CHES, CEUs for counselors, psychologists, & social workers through MIMH, Missouri Credentialing Board for substance use professionals, Continuing Education for Nurses/Continuing Medical Education

This presentation will explore the rising use and popularity of oral nicotine pouches, such as Zyn, among college students. Participants will gain insight into the health risks associated with these products and understand the strategies used to market them to young adults. Through discussion, attendees will analyze how nicotine pouches are positioned to appeal to young adults and the potential impact this has on students. Together, we will collaborate to develop prevention strategies aimed at reducing the use of these products on campuses and how we can better support students who are using them.

Survey of Missouri’s Higher Education Tobacco-Free Policies, Meekim Nguyen, Research Specialist I, University of Missouri

Comprehensive tobacco-free policies have been found to be effective in decreasing tobacco use and creating tobacco and smoke-free environments. Gaps in policies can inadvertently cause serious tobacco-related health disparities. PIP has partnered with DHSS to review the current tobacco-free campus policy landscape for Missouri colleges/universities. An assessment tool based on five domains of Rationale and Definitions, Tobacco-Free Environment, Cessation and Treatment Services, Enforcement, and Policy Communication was used to rate policy comprehensiveness. Of institutions with policies (N = 50), the majority were found to be incomprehensive across multiple areas within the assessment. These findings have identified gaps in Missouri institutions’ policies and will be informative to guide them to implement strengthened tobacco-free policies that will provide protections against tobacco use on their campuses.

Art Therapy as a Mental Health Intervention for College Students: How Cultural Background Shapes Engagement and Effectiveness, Yoo Fang Kang, Masters Student, University of Missouri

College students face increasing mental health challenges, yet traditional talk therapy has limitations, particularly for those from diverse cultural backgrounds. Art therapy, a creative and non-verbal intervention, offers an alternative means of emotional expression and regulation. This study explores how cultural background influences engagement and effectiveness in art therapy for college students. By reviewing existing literature on emotional expression, coping strategies, and cross-cultural studies in art therapy, this research highlights the adaptability of art therapy across cultural contexts. Findings suggest that cultural factors shape participation and impact therapeutic outcomes. Understanding these influences can help develop more culturally inclusive art therapy interventions in university settings, ensuring accessibility and effectiveness for all students. Future research should explore culturally adaptive art therapy models for diverse student populations.

Bridging Gaps: Inclusive Wellness for a Stronger Campus Experience, Afrin Shaik, Peer Wellness Educator, Missouri University of Science and Technology

Creating an inclusive and accessible campus is vital to promoting student well-being and success. This poster underscores the importance of Inclusion and Accessibility (IA) in fostering a supportive educational environment. It examines the role of representation, equitable engagement, and accessible resources in enhancing student experiences. Through practical applications such as inclusive wellness programs, culturally responsive mental health resources, and barrier-free student participation, we highlight strategic initiatives that advance equity. Join us in advocating for inclusive wellness initiatives that empower all students to thrive.

Perceptions of Alcohol-Related Services: A Comparison of Greek Life and Non-Greek Life Affiliated Students, Lucy Cunningham, Undergraduate Research Assistant, University of Missouri

There is extensive literature confirming the higher prevalence of binge drinking among Greek life members compared to non-members. However, it remains unclear whether students affiliated with Greek life are aware of campus prevention programs and what supportive services they engage with. This study will explore Greek life students’ self-reported alcohol use and interest in changing their drinking, awareness of campus programs, and support systems they may rely on if they were to seek help. Using a survey of undergraduate students from a large, public, four-year institution, we examined Greek life affiliation, alcohol use patterns (e.g., AUDIT), awareness of campus prevention efforts, and desire to change. We expect the results to inform strategies for improving outreach and support tailored to the drinking culture within Greek life.

Stronger Together, JhansiMala Silla, Peer Facilitator and Miner support Network, Missouri University of Science and Technology

This poster will illustrate how peer-to-peer learning and connection are crucial in student wellbeing. Peer facilitation offers a space where students learn from one another, share experiences, and create meaningful connections. Research indicates that learning from peers enhances engagement, reduces stress, and fosters a sense of belonging. A Miner’s Support Network or Project Connect is representative of optimal practice in peer support by affording students an organized forum in which to process struggles, build resilience, and enhance overall well-being. This poster will highlight how both programs positively impact students and contribute to a healthier campus community.

Machine Learning Reveals Hidden Stressors in Students, Catalina Tibaduiza, Research Analyst, University of Central Missouri

Data on student perceptions, emotions, and feelings are relevant and valuable as research on understanding circumstances that can impact students’ lives and hinder their academic success. Stress is one of the key conditions that can affect students’ success. In turn, stress levels are directly influenced by factors such as a sense of purpose, supportive relationships, food access, and sleep duration. This study aimed to use machine learning techniques to analyze the impact of these variables across different stress levels. Data from 2019 to 2023, consisting of approximately 41,000 records from Missouri Assessment of College Health Behaviors, was used for this research. Undergraduate students participated in the survey.

Presenter: Fidelia Agwuncha, Care to Act Program Assistant, University of Central Missouri
Location:
Tracks: Health & Well-being sponsored by CCHA
CEUs: CECH credit for CHES, CEUs for counselors, psychologists, & social workers through MIMH, Missouri Credentialing Board for substance use professionals

Mental wellbeing is crucial to students’ success, both academically and personally. The United States is the leading destination for international students, hosting 24% of all international students worldwide—the highest of any country. International students make up 6% of the total U.S. higher education population, with over 250,000 new enrollments recorded in the 2022-2023 academic year. For many of these students, studying in the U.S. represents their first experience living away from home and family—often across thousands of miles. This transition can lead to acculturative stress and psychological distress, manifesting as homesickness, loss, and social isolation. Despite availability of needed resources in schools, these challenges persist. This raises the critical question: why do these mental health challenges continue to affect international students despite accessible resources?

Presenter: Aaron L. Austin, NABITA
Location:
Tracks: Violence Prevention, Mental Health and Suicide Prevention
CEUs: CECH credit for CHES, CEUs for counselors, psychologists, & social workers through MIMH, Missouri Credentialing Board for substance use professionals

Whether you’re looking to share your expertise or learn from others, this session promises to be a valuable opportunity for growth and collaboration for you and your Behavioral Intervention Teams (BIT)/Care Teams. This engaging and interactive training session will focus on the critical work of BITs/Care Teams and the pivotal role they play in violence prevention efforts on campus. Participants will explore a real-world case study to analyze how coordinated interventions can help identify and mitigate potential risks, fostering a safer and more supportive environment for students and staff. Additionally, the session will provide opportunities for seasoned BIT leaders and those new to the work to ask questions, discuss, and exchange best practices.

Presenters: Dr. Brittany Mays, ROARS Peer Educator Advisor and Assistant Professor in the Department of Health, Physical Education, and Recreation, Desmond Delk, ROARS Peer Educator Advisor, Miles Hall & Jada Lavalais, Student Peer Educators, Langston University
Location:
Track: Peer Education
CEUs: CECH credit for CHES, CEUs for counselors, psychologists, & social workers through MIMH, Missouri Credentialing Board for substance use professionals

The ROARS Peer Educator program was established at Langston University in 2016. Since that time, dozens of students have been trained as campus leaders in the areas of sexual health, substance abuse awareness, mental health, and physical activity engagement. The purpose of this panel presentation is to explore the experiences of peer educators at a Historically Black University in a rural town in Oklahoma. The panelists will share stories of successful programming initiatives, peer educator recruitment, as well as techniques to overcome barriers to activity implementation. Additionally, session participants will develop at least three prospective activities to incorporate in their peer educator program at their institution.

Presenter: Sammie Jurado, Partnership Development Coordinator, Missouri Coalition Against Domestic and Sexual Violence (MOCADSV)
Location:
Track: Violence Prevention, Law Enforcement
CEUs: CECH credit for CHES, CEUs for counselors, psychologists, & social workers through MIMH, Missouri Credentialing Board for substance use professionals, POST for law enforcement

Domestic and Sexual Violence has major impacts on people and the communities they live in. In this session you will learn the nature and dynamics of domestic and sexual violence and advocacy tools to assist survivors.

Panelists: Andreea Baker, Health & Wellness Director at Doane University, Scott Henderson, MD, Director of Medical Services at the Student Health Center at the University of Missouri – Columbia, Jamie Sharp, MS, RN, MLAC, Director of College Health & Counseling at Butler Community College, Jamie Shutter, MSEd, Executive Director of Health & Well-being, University of Missouri – Columbia, and Jim Parker, Director, Student Health Center, University of Missouri – Columbia
Location:
Track: Student Health Center Topics sponsored by CCHA
CEUs: CECH credit for CHES, CEUs for counselors, psychologists, & social workers through MIMH, Missouri Credentialing Board for substance use professionals, Continuing Education for Nurses/Continuing Medical Education

With the evolving landscape of higher education, many IHEs have adopted innovative approaches to healthcare delivery and how it is financed. These range from free services by university-run health centers to insurance-based services to fully outsourced health services, as well as various hybrid models in between. This panel discussion will share experiences at IHE of various size and level classifications. Exploration of potential benefits and challenges of different models will be explored.

Presenters: Denise Roy, Program Advocate & Tara Diamond, Program Specialist, YouImpact – Online Victim Impact Panel
Location:
Track: Law Enforcement, Alcohol, Tobacco, and Other Drug Prevention
CEUs: CECH credit for CHES, CEUs for counselors, psychologists, & social workers through MIMH, Missouri Credentialing Board for substance use professionals, POST for law enforcement

Stories are all around us. They have the immense power to build empathy, change and refine values, and impact our choices. From the moment a person obtains their driver’s license, we can almost guarantee that either they or someone in their proximity will either be faced with the choice to drive impaired. YouImpact uses non-judgemental storytelling to target the specific risk-taking behavior of impaired driving. Program participants hear from people of varying backgrounds and experiences explain the consequences of a choice to drive impaired. We’ll share why and how YouImpact can be used as an individual sanction for any alcohol-related violation. We’ll discuss how an online format benefits the participant and their institution and the potential barriers to implementing live, in-person storytelling experiences.

Presenters: Heather Lyons-Burney, Clinical Associate Professor, UMKC School of Pharmacy &Thuylinh Pham Pediatrician, Associate Professor, UMKC School of Medicine
Location:
Track: Alcohol, Tobacco, and Other Drug Prevention
CEUs: CECH credit for CHES, CEUs for counselors, psychologists, & social workers through MIMH, Missouri Credentialing Board for substance use professionals

Campus clinicians are uniquely positioned to identify nicotine use disorders and provide interventions to a student population. This program will assist with identifying the need for a nicotine cessation program on a campus and best practices for implementation. The participant will learn about methods of intervention, and the appropriate selection of pharmacotherapies. Additionally, this program seeks to provide a better understanding of resources for supporting cessation efforts and nicotine replacement products.

Presenter: Dr. Jason Kilmer, Professor of Psychiatry & Behavioral Sciences in the University of Washington (UW) School of Medicine and Adjunct Professor of Psychology at UW
Location:
Track: Alcohol, Tobacco, and Other Drug Prevention
CEUs: CECH credit for CHES, CEUs for counselors, psychologists, & social workers through MIMH, Missouri Credentialing Board for substance use professionals

In this presentation, we will consider the mix of strategies within a campus’s approach to prevention for alcohol and cannabis, along with possible partners on (and off) campus. Lessons learned about what works (and what not might work as well) will be discussed.

Presenters: Martha & Chris Thomas, The Defensive Line
Location:
Track: Mental Health and Suicide Prevention
CEUs: CECH credit for CHES, CEUs for counselors, psychologists, & social workers through MIMH, Missouri Credentialing Board for substance use professionals

As a follow up to their opening keynote, sit down with Martha and Chris Thomas to learn more!

Presenters: Dr. Katryna Sardis, Assistant Director for Inclusive Engagement, & Patrick Skirvan, Human Resources Consultant, University of Missouri – Columbia
Location:
Track: Health & Well-being sponsored by CCHA
CEUs: CECH credit for CHES, CEUs for counselors, psychologists, & social workers through MIMH, Missouri Credentialing Board for substance use professionals

This session empowers attendees to adopt human-centered strategies for managing teams and operations. Participants will gain actionable tools to prioritize staff well-being and foster an inclusive, empathetic workplace culture. Through practical frameworks, participants will learn to navigate team dynamics, integrate human-focused principles into decision-making, and operationalize strategies that align institutional goals with staff support. Join us in redefining leadership by placing people at the core of higher education success.

Presenter: Kailey Reeves, Crisis Services Specialist, Missouri Department of Mental Health
Location:
Track: Mental Health and Suicide Prevention
CEUs: CECH credit for CHES, CEUs for counselors, psychologists, & social workers through MIMH, Missouri Credentialing Board for substance use professionals

The 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline offers a critical resource for individuals experiencing mental health crises, suicide crises substance use issues, or emotional distress. In Missouri, this initiative plays a pivotal role in connecting individuals to immediate support, local mental health services, and follow-up care. This presentation will explore the implementation and impact of 988 in Missouri. The Missouri 988 team has prioritized spreading awareness of one of the largest suicide prevention resources available, 988. The Missouri Department of Mental Health has launched a statewide 988 awareness campaign to increase education of 988 throughout Missouri.

Presenter: Ben Greene, Public Speaker, Author, and Advocate, BG Trans Talks
Location:
Track: Student Health Center Topics sponsored by CCHA
CEUs: CECH credit for CHES, CEUs for counselors, psychologists, & social workers through MIMH, Missouri Credentialing Board for substance use professionals

In this workshop, Ben will share his story as an openly transgender man who came out at 15—one of the first to do so in his entire town. After reviewing what it means to be transgender and all of the language that comes up in these conversations, he’ll discuss issues facing the transgender community on campuses and in the world at large, why it matters to be proactive about your support, and what individuals and departments can do to create a safe, supportive environment for all students. He will close out the session with a 100% judgment-free Q&A where you can ask any burning questions you may have about the transgender community.

Presenter: Logan Davis, Outreach and Engagement Manager, Higher Education Center for Alcohol and Drug Prevention & Recovery (HECAOD)
Location:
Track: Student Health Center Topics sponsored by CCHA
CEUs: CECH credit for CHES, CEUs for counselors, psychologists, & social workers through MIMH, Missouri Credentialing Board for substance use professionals

For better or worse, there is nothing like the sorority & fraternity experience or working with fraternities and sororities on the campuses in which they reside. Complex, and often complicated organizations, lead to complex and complicated relationships. The question this session aims to explore is why. Why can working with fraternities & sororities and the professionals and volunteers who work with them be so complicated? Come “connect the dots” and explore barriers and complexities getting in the way of successful working relationships.

Presenter: David Ray, Senior Trainer, Behavioral Health Response – Disarming Suicide Initiative
Location:
Tracks: Law Enforcement, Mental Health and Suicide Prevention
CEUs: CECH credit for CHES, CEUs for counselors, psychologists, & social workers through MIMH, Missouri Credentialing Board for substance use professionals, POST for law enforcement

This program focuses on strategies for reducing access to lethal means, particularly firearms, to prevent suicides among individuals, especially within the police, fire and EMS communities. Key objectives include:

• Determining strategies to reduce access to lethal means and their impact on suicide prevention.
• Defining and providing examples of suicide risk and protective factors.
• Identifying four levels of intervention (societal, communal, relational, and individual) to reduce firearm access.
• Understanding the critical role of fire/EMS personnel in suicide prevention

The program highlights the importance of safe firearm storage, temporary removal of firearms during suicidal crises, and the implementation of effective mental health support and debriefing protocols. It aims to promote a culture of self-care and provide practical guidance for intervention and risk reduction.

Presenter: Katherine Melton, Owner, Author, Consultant, Integrated Wellbeing Consulting
Location:
Tracks: Alcohol, Tobacco, and Other Drug Prevention, Law Enforcement
CEUs: CECH credit for CHES, CEUs for counselors, psychologists, & social workers through MIMH, Missouri Credentialing Board for substance use professionals, POST for law enforcement

This session offers a comprehensive overview of strategies for supporting students in recovery, emphasizing the creation of recovery-friendly environments both on campus and within the wider community. We will explore key approaches for developing recovery programs and/or recovery support, from initial concept to sustained implementation, and discuss how to integrate resources, build student networks, and engage faculty and staff in supporting recovery. Through practical examples, participants will gain tools for fostering a culture of inclusivity and wellbeing. Attendees will leave with actionable strategies to help students in recovery thrive academically, socially, and personally.

Presenter: Jessica Gargus, M.Ed., Assistant Vice Chancellor of Student Health and Well-Being and Annie Birt, Academic Advisor
Location:
Track: Health & Well-being sponsored by CCHA
CEUs: CECH credit for CHES, CEUs for counselors, psychologists, & social workers through MIMH, Missouri Credentialing Board for substance use professionals

As the landscape of higher education evolves, so too does the definition of student success. Traditionally measured by factors such as retention, graduation rates, and GPA, today’s students increasingly emphasize a broader, more holistic understanding of success—one that encompasses well-being, sense of belonging, safety, purpose, and accessibility. This shift calls for a reimagined approach to supporting students, where institutions not only foster academic achievement but also integrate elements that contribute to a thriving student experience. Introduced by the Stanford Social Innovation Review, Collective Impact provides a model for cross-sector collaboration to address complex social challenges across a college campus. This session explores how to use it to support well-being and success in order to provide students a culture of care no matter where they are on campus. Attendees will leave with actionable insights to work together in creating a thriving, supportive, and empathetic educational environment where health and well-being are a shared priority for all.

Presenters: Kelsie Gibler, Health Educator/Peer Health Education Coordinator, Stephanie Hooker and Liam Wilson, Well-Being Peer Educators, University of Missouri
Location:
Track: Alcohol, Tobacco, and Other Drug Prevention, Law Enforcement
CEUs: CECH credit for CHES, CEUs for counselors, psychologists, & social workers through MIMH, Missouri Credentialing Board for substance use professionals, POST for law enforcement, Continuing Education for Nurses/Continuing Medical Education

As the generations have changed, so have tobacco and nicotine products. Keeping up with current trends of younger audiences, Big Tobacco seeks to find its “Replacement Smokers”: the demographic that will fund their future. This session will discuss how and why certain demographics are being targeted, what are possible solutions, and engage with undergraduate students who have firsthand accounts of how the tobacco industry has affected them.

Presenter: Cayli Yanagida, Peer Educator and Graduate Volunteer, Relationship and Sexual Violence Prevention Center, University of Missouri – Columbia
Location:
Track: Violence Prevention
CEUs: CECH credit for CHES, CEUs for counselors, psychologists, & social workers through MIMH, Missouri Credentialing Board for substance use professionals

This presentation aims to link the ways sexual violence and female reproductive health obstacles intertwine and connect through misogyny. It also highlights ways to navigate feelings of shame, anger, loss and understanding, connecting people with each other in order to prevent sexual violence and the minimization of female pain.

Presenter: Scott Henderson, MD, Director, Medical Services at the Student Health Center at the University of Missouri – Columbia
Location:
Track: Student Health Center Topics sponsored by CCHA
CEUs: CECH credit for CHES, CEUs for counselors, psychologists, & social workers through MIMH, Missouri Credentialing Board for substance use professionals, Continuing Education for Nurses/Continuing Medical Education

Recommendations and in some cases state statues, exist regarding Tuberculosis screening, testing, and treatment for college students. The goal of this presentation is to discuss ways to improve LTBI screening and treatment as it relates to the college setting. Since 2020, the incidence rate of TB in the US has increased by 32%. TB incidence rate is 17.1 times higher among non-U.S.–born persons compared with U.S.-born persons. Approximately 80% of Tuberculosis cases in the US are due to untreated LTBI.

Presenter: Jodi Seals, M.Ed., Health Promotion Specialist, and Tori Taylor, Student Peer Educator, Washington University – St Louis
Location:
Tracks: Peer Education, Mental Health and Suicide Prevention
CEUs: CECH credit for CHES, CEUs for counselors, psychologists, & social workers through MIMH, Missouri Credentialing Board for substance use professionals

This session will illustrate how we implemented The Green Bandana Project at WashU! This Project is an advocacy initiative designed to raise awareness about mental health and promote a culture of openness, compassion, and support. By using the green bandana as a visible symbol of solidarity, the project encourages individuals to start conversations, reduce stigma, and seek help when needed. This presentation will explore how we engaged students, particularly our student athletes, to get involved with the project and positively impact our WashU community. In addition, the specific ways that we modified the program to work for our students. Please join us to hear about how you can create meaningful change on your campus and support mental health on a broader scale.

Presenter: Dr. Eric Davidson, Executive Director for Health and Counseling Services at Eastern Illinois University
Location:
Track: Student Health Center Topics sponsored by CCHA
CEUs: CECH credit for CHES, CEUs for counselors, psychologists, & social workers through MIMH, Missouri Credentialing Board for substance use professionals

During the spring semester of 2022, the Administration of Eastern Illinois University began informal discussions to outsource its medical clinic to the local hospital system. Within 4 months formal conversations began, with the formal transition occurring 10 months later. Utilizing the ACHA Guidelines Outsourcing of College Health Programs: Discussion Points as a framework, this presentation will highlight reasons why the institution considered outsourcing the medical clinic, provide an overview of the key timelines and benchmarks for this initiative’s implementation, address concerns identified regarding the outsourcing of the medical clinic, and identify major successes and challenges experienced during and after implementation. After almost two years, the current relationship between the two entities and its impact on the healthcare provided will be discussed.

• Featured Lunch Roundtable: When The World Feels On Fire: The Value of Community & Accessing Peace in Challenging Times
  • Panelists: Anne Rulo, Katherine Melton, Jessica Gargus, Kasi Lacey
    • The current challenges and changes impacting diversity, equity, and inclusion, as well as higher education, have left many feeling unsettled, unseen, and unsure how to respond. While we don’t have all the answers, we do have some community, some resources, and some comfort available in this session. We encourage all who would like to share a peaceful space with others to attend.
• Graduate Students and New Professionals
• Law Enforcement and Public Safety Officers
• Mental Health Professionals, Counselors, & Social Workers
• Student Affairs, Conduct, Fraternity & Sorority Life, & Residence Life
• Substance Use Prevention or Prevention and Health Promotion Professionals
• Undergraduate Students and Peer Educators
• Violence Prevention, Title IX, and Victim Advocates

Presenter: Dr. Roberta Donahue, Professor, Health Science, Truman State University
Location:
Track: Health & Well-being sponsored by CCHA
CEUs: CECH credit for CHES, CEUs for counselors, psychologists, & social workers through MIMH, Missouri Credentialing Board for substance use professionals

This presentation describes a health promotion program that provides a 15 week sequence of self-care activities. The intervention is designed to familiarize participants with a wide variety of brief and effective self-care activities while providing structure and accountability to practice a different self-care activity each week. Participants learn which activities are the best fit for their schedules, personal needs, and preferences. This intervention was pilot-tested with an in-person class of undergraduates, but it could be structured as an online activity. The program could also be adapted for use with graduate students, faculty and/or staff. Attendees will review and briefly practice some of the intervention self-care practices such as breathing exercises, progressive muscular relaxation, visualization, gratitude, small changes, kindness, and reframing.

Presenters: Dr. Eric Davidson, Executive Director for Health and Counseling Services, and Dr. Matthew Warner, Assistant Director for Health Education and Promotions, Eastern Illinois University
Location:
Track: Student Health Center Topics sponsored by CCHA
CEUs: CECH credit for CHES, CEUs for counselors, psychologists, & social workers through MIMH, Missouri Credentialing Board for substance use professionals

Since 2010, Eastern Illinois University has increased its international student population from approximately 150 to 900 students. This increase, while bringing many positive impacts to campus, brought several unexpected challenges regarding immunization and tuberculosis compliance and monitoring. This workshop will address lessons learned including those related to marketing and communications, cross cultural challenges, campus collaborations, and detecting and addressing fraudulent and suspicious records. Using an interactive and small group based format, participants will self-assess themselves and their institutions based on the initial lessons learned at EIU and share how they are addressing and overcoming the issues EIU has had to address. Representatives from EIU will also share additional situations and lessons learned since delivering this workshop at last year’s Meeting of the Minds.

Presenter: Dr. Jessica Higgs, Director of Health Services and Team Physician, Bradley University
Location:
Track: Violence Prevention
CEUs: CECH credit for CHES, CEUs for counselors, psychologists, & social workers through MIMH, Missouri Credentialing Board for substance use professionals

Knee, leg, and ankle injuries are a common complaint in most campus health services. However, some practitioners feel underprepared to exam and diagnose some musculoskeletal injuries. This presentation will cover the most common diagnoses for these complaints. We will review common mechanism of injuries, instructions on how to perform key testing, pertinent exam findings, when imaging is needed, when to refer, and how to manage each common diagnoses including return to activity guidelines.

Presenter: Sarika Griffin, Associate Director, Violence Intervention and Prevention (VIP) Center, Creighton University
Location:
Track: Violence Prevention
CEUs: CECH credit for CHES, CEUs for counselors, psychologists, & social workers through MIMH, Missouri Credentialing Board for substance use professionals

Diversity in survivor advocacy refers to the practice of ensuring advocacy efforts for survivors of trauma, abuse, or violence that actively includes and represents individuals from a wide range of backgrounds, including different races, ethnicities, genders, sexual orientations, socioeconomic statuses, abilities, and immigration statuses. Emphasis is on the recognition that each group may face unique challenges and require tailored support strategies. Trauma-informed services are essential because they acknowledge the widespread impact of traumatic events on individuals, creating environments and practices that prioritize safety, trust, and empowerment, thereby minimizing the risk of re-traumatization while promoting healing and recovery. Trauma informed care committed to recognizing diverse can lead to improved engagement with services, better treatment outcomes, and increased overall well-being across various settings.

Presenter: Dave Closson, DJC Solutions
Location:
Track: Law Enforcement, Alcohol, Tobacco, and Other Drug Prevention
CEUs: CECH credit for CHES, CEUs for counselors, psychologists, & social workers through MIMH, Missouri Credentialing Board for substance use professionals, POST for law enforcement

This breakout session will explore the key strategies and best practices outlined in the DEA’s “Prevention with Purpose: A Resource for Campus Police and Public Safety Personnel.” Participants will gain insights into the collaboration between campus law enforcement and prevention programs to create a safer and healthier campus environment. The session will focus on practical applications, case studies, and interactive discussions to equip attendees with actionable strategies they can implement on their own campuses.

Presenter: Dr. Laura Holt (she/her), Psychologist/LGBTQ+ specialist at Washington University – St. Louis
Location:
Track: Health & Well-being sponsored by CCHA
CEUs: CECH credit for CHES, CEUs for counselors, psychologists, & social workers through MIMH, Missouri Credentialing Board for substance use professionals

The Human Rights Campaign’s Healthcare Equality Index is the national LGBTQ+ benchmarking tool that evaluates healthcare facilities’ policies and practices related to the equity and inclusion of their LGBTQ+ patients, visitors and employees. This presentation will discuss the process a university health/counseling center undertook to participate, what was learned, and plans for the future. Spreading the word about the free assessment, training, and other tools offered via HEI is vital to improve the access and inclusivity for one of our most vulnerable populations. Come learn how your workplace can join this program!

Presenter: Michelle McDowell, Sr. Program Coordinator, MU Extension, & Ann McCauley, ROTA-R Director
Location:
Track: Alcohol, Tobacco, and Other Drug Prevention
CEUs: CECH credit for CHES, CEUs for counselors, psychologists, & social workers through MIMH, Missouri Credentialing Board for substance use professionals, Continuing Education for Nurses/Continuing Medical Education

As faculty or staff of an Institute of Higher Education (IHE), you have the power to set a standard of expectation for the workplace. You are able to demonstrate the negative impacts that tobacco and nicotine use has on the individual and the workforce while offering strategies that can positively counteract those impacts. In this presentation, we will discuss the impact that Tobacco Nation has on the workforce, explain the importance of IHE becoming a Recovery Friendly Workplace designee, and describe the Recovery Friendly Workplaces designation process.

Presenter: Jenny Damask, MS, Ed.D. Assistant Director for High-Risk Drinking Prevention, University of Wisconsin – Madison
Location:
Track: Alcohol, Tobacco, and Other Drug Prevention
CEUs: CECH credit for CHES, CEUs for counselors, psychologists, & social workers through MIMH, Missouri Credentialing Board for substance use professionals

Communication is a key piece of alcohol and other drug misuse prevention efforts and can be difficult, time intensive, or put together quickly without evaluation. You have the data, the public health framework, and solid prevention programs—but how do you tie it all together? Pairing your prevention strategy with a communication strategy can help your institution more effectively move the needle on attitudes and behaviors related to alcohol and other drug misuse. This session will provide participants with a toolkit for building a communication strategy in line with their institution’s alcohol and drug prevention goals.

Presenters: Tori Harwood, Wellness Coordinator and Eric Anderson, Assistant Vice President for Student Well-Being, Saint Louis University
Location:
Track: Health & Well-being sponsored by CCHA
CEUs: CECH credit for CHES, CEUs for counselors, psychologists, & social workers through MIMH, Missouri Credentialing Board for substance use professionals

In January 2024, Saint Louis University (SLU) welcomed Duo Dog Woody as the first facility dog to attend college. Woody plays a vital role in promoting mental health by reducing stress, improving moods, and fostering positive interactions among students, faculty, and staff. This session will explore Woody’s integration into SLU’s mental health initiatives, covering his onboarding process, handler selection, financial management, and logistics. Participants will learn about the impact of Woody’s presence, insights from the first year, and strategies for measuring outcomes. The session will also highlight how formal and informal interactions with Woody contribute to a joyful and supportive campus environment. By sharing experiences and best practices, this presentation will showcase Woody’s role in enhancing well-being and fostering a sense of community at SLU.

Presenter: Dr. Jessica Taylor, LPC, Associate Professor of Clinical Counseling, Central Methodist University
Location:
Track: Mental Health and Suicide Prevention
CEUs: CECH credit for CHES, CEUs for counselors, psychologists, & social workers through MIMH, Missouri Credentialing Board for substance use professionals

This program will share information about Central Methodist University’s approach to supporting the mental health of its off-campus students, as well as the mental health of community college partners’ students and employees. Through a virtual counseling training center, staffed by faculty and student interns in CMU’s graduate clinical mental health counseling program, affiliated students and employees may obtain free virtual counseling services from counseling interns while under the live virtual supervision of licensed counseling program faculty. Information about the virtual counseling training center, how affiliated college partnerships have been fostered, and aggregated clinic utilization data will be shared.

Presenters: Arie Baker, MSW, Director of Health Promotion, Brittany Hensley, MPH, Health Promotion Specialist, and Jodi Seals, M.Ed., Health Promotion Specialist
Location:
Track: Peer Education
CEUs: CECH credit for CHES, CEUs for counselors, psychologists, & social workers through MIMH, Missouri Credentialing Board for substance use professionals

The WashU Peer Health Educators (PHEs) program utilizes a tiered approach to enhance health education on campus, focusing on Alcohol and Other Drugs, Mental Health, and Sexual Health. This student volunteer program, supported by Health Promotion Services staff and graduate assistants, provides specialized training, supervision, and mentorship for undergraduate volunteers. This model has enabled Health Promotion Services to expand its efforts while maintaining budget efficiency, making a lasting impact on the campus community’s health and well-being. Join WashU Health Promotion staff for a review of the structure of their Peer Education program, including lessons learned and future directions.

Presenter: Sergeant Art Amato, Extract-Ed Training
Location:
Track: Law Enforcement, Alcohol, Tobacco, and Other Drug Prevention
CEUs: CECH credit for CHES, CEUs for counselors, psychologists, & social workers through MIMH, Missouri Credentialing Board for substance use professionals

Due to the trend of legalizing cannabis, law enforcement and private entities must increase their knowledge of cannabis and the potential products produced from it. During this training, you will learn about the different types of cannabis plants and how they are identified, how cannabis extracts are made and used, and how cannabis is broken down in the body. Current field sobriety research that is available in detecting a driver that is impaired on cannabis as well as ongoing studies and resources that are available for law enforcement’s continued education on this subject are included as well.

Presenter: Dr. Michael Huey, Asst VP for Student Health Services (retired), Emory University
Location:
Track: Student Health Center Topics sponsored by CCHA, Health & Well-being sponsored by CCHA
CEUs: CECH credit for CHES, CEUs for counselors, psychologists, & social workers through MIMH, Missouri Credentialing Board for substance use professionals, Continuing Education for Nurses/Continuing Medical Education

This two session presentation will look at: Part 1: the value of accreditation, how to win campus leadership support for accreditation, written documentation needed, Version 43 changes, and future additions to AAAHC standards about access to healthcare; Part 2 will look at: common deficiencies and how to avoid them, and how to do a mock survey. The presenter has been an AAAHC surveyor for 20 years, with over 70 college health surveys done, and a college health leader at accredited health, counseling and well-being services for 30 years.

Presenters: Cayli Yanagida, Peer Educator and Graduate Volunteer, Relationship and Sexual Violence Prevention Center, and Dr. Katryna Sardis, Assistant Director for Inclusive Engagement, University of Missouri – Columbia
Location:
Track: Violence Prevention
CEUs: CECH credit for CHES, CEUs for counselors, psychologists, & social workers through MIMH, Missouri Credentialing Board for substance use professionals

Universities traditionally provide comprehensive resource orientation for undergraduates, and graduate students often face a significant gap in understanding their ability to access essential campus resources and services. This session examines the University of Missouri-Columbia’s Relationship and Sexual Violence Prevention Center’s strategic approach to addressing this disparity through targeted graduate student education and outreach. We will discuss innovative methods for connecting graduate students with vital campus resources and showcase successful initiatives for integrating them into the campus support network. Attendees will learn practical strategies for implementing similar programs at their institutions to ensure graduate students receive equitable access to support services.

Presenters: Simran Bhatia, Associate Director or Collective Impact, Center for Student Wellbeing, Emory University and Dr. C. Oliver Tacto, Dean of Student Wellness, Maryville University and Chair-Elect of the ACHA Health and Well-being Executive Leaders Section
Location:
Track: Health & Well-being sponsored by CCHA
CEUs: CECH credit for CHES, CEUs for counselors, psychologists, & social workers through MIMH, Missouri Credentialing Board for substance use professionals

In higher education, health promotion professionals often work within silos, which can limit the reach and effectiveness of wellness initiatives. This session will explore how stakeholder mapping can be leveraged as a collaborative leadership tool to build more integrated and impactful community-wide well-being programs at universities. By understanding the diverse range of stakeholders, their roles, and influence, health promotion professionals can strategically mobilize support for initiatives, ensuring a more sustainable and inclusive approach to campus health and well-being. This session is designed for health promotion professionals, administrators, and student affairs leaders eager to foster collaborative leadership and community mobilization on their campuses.

Presenters: Shannon Quinn, BSW, Senior Case Manager, and Robin Kimberlin, MSW, Director of Student Advocacy & Care, University of Missouri – St. Louis
Location:
Track: Health & Well-being sponsored by CCHA
CEUs: CECH credit for CHES, CEUs for counselors, psychologists, & social workers through MIMH, Missouri Credentialing Board for substance use professionals

This presentation is intended to spark participants to think (and dream) big about the potential of their campus food pantry. The experience and journey of the Triton Pantry at UMSL will be used to demonstrate how a food pantry can be so much more than a food resource. Participants will gain an understanding of a layering approach and have specific examples to take back to their campus and try.

Presenter: Madison Shaw, MSW, Director of Student Involvement & First Year Programs, Lindenwood University
Location:
Track: Health & Well-being sponsored by CCHA
CEUs: CECH credit for CHES, CEUs for counselors, psychologists, & social workers through MIMH, Missouri Credentialing Board for substance use professionals

The Engage in Eight program offers students targeted wellness programming and engagement opportunities during the critical first eight weeks of the semester. This period is essential for student success and developing a sense of belonging, especially for freshmen. Engage in Eight brought together a committee to plan 32 new programs over the course of eight weeks in the fall and spring semesters. This session will provide an overview of year one of Engage in Eight at Lindenwood University, the events hosted, student feedback, and how to implement a large-scale wellness initiative like this. Attendees will gain insights into the planning process, the impact on student engagement and retention, and practical strategies for launching similar initiatives at their own institutions.

Presenter: Dr. Ashley Helle, Assistant Research Professor, Licensed Clinical Psychologist (Missouri), Director for Engagement, Missouri Center for Addiction Research and Engagement (MO-CARE)
Location:
Track: Alcohol, Tobacco, and Other Drug Prevention
CEUs: CECH credit for CHES, CEUs for counselors, psychologists, & social workers through MIMH, Missouri Credentialing Board for substance use professionals

This session will provide an overview of using the Strategic Prevention Framework with your teams on your campus, with a deeper dive into how to find, adopt, and implement evidence-based practices for alcohol prevention and early intervention. Using validated frameworks and existing tools, we will review how to consider approaches that will work best for your campus, and when and how to get support for specific implementation needs.

Presenter: Christy Inskip, Youth Tobacco Use Prevention Specialist, Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services
Location:
Tracks: Alcohol, Tobacco, and Other Drug Prevention
CEUs: CECH credit for CHES, CEUs for counselors, psychologists, & social workers through MIMH, Missouri Credentialing Board for substance use professionals

Most Missouri colleges have tobacco-free policies, but many contain gaps that may act as barriers to prevention and cessation among students. Comprehensive tobacco-free policies effectively help people quit if fully implemented, regularly communicated, and consistently enforced. This session will cover how to move closer to a comprehensive policy by partnering to identify gaps, advocate for a stronger policy, strengthen policy language, and successfully implement the policy. Participants will grow their skills and professional networks, obtain tools and resources, and plan the next steps necessary to adopt, implement, and sustain a more comprehensive tobacco-free college policy.

Presenter: Ben Greene, Public Speaker, Author, and Advocate, BG Trans Talks
Location:
Track: Student Health Center Topics sponsored by CCHA, Alcohol, Tobacco, and Other Drug Prevention
CEUs: CECH credit for CHES, CEUs for counselors, psychologists, & social workers through MIMH, Missouri Credentialing Board for substance use professionals

In this workshop, Ben will discuss the unique considerations that impact transgender student substance abuse challenges including family support, access to community gathering spaces, and the political landscape. He will also discuss the complicated history of substance use and the LGBTQ+ community, such as pride festivals historically being sponsored by major liquor brands or community gathering spaces being limited to bars and clubs, that underlies some of the unique manifestations of substance use within this community. He will conclude by discussing strategies for prevention, dialogue, and support for transgender students who may be struggling with substance use. There will be plenty of time for Q&A as well!

Presenters: Rachel Czerny, MPH, JED Campus Advisor, The JED Foundation, Ann Goodwin, MSW, LCSW-S, DSW Candidate, Associate Dean for Student Well-Being and Director of Counseling, and Alex McAllister, PhD, Associate Dean of the College, Centre College
Location:
Track: Mental Health and Suicide Prevention
CEUs: CECH credit for CHES, CEUs for counselors, psychologists, & social workers through MIMH, Missouri Credentialing Board for substance use professionals

Centre College partnered with JED Campus in 2021 to strengthen student mental health and prevent suicide. At the start of the program, Centre completed a comprehensive needs assessment, which informed the development of a tailored strategic plan addressing campus-specific needs while building on existing strengths. Through this partnership, Centre implemented a series of initiatives aligned with JED’s Comprehensive Approach, supporting students at individual, interpersonal, community, and policy levels. Centre completed the JED Campus post-assessment in fall 2024, demonstrating improvements in campus culture, increased student knowledge, and positive shifts in student attitudes. This session will highlight key strategies, program outcomes, lessons learned, future directions, and the transformative impact on campus culture.

Presenter: Megan DeShon-Runge, Hazing Database and Outreach Coordinator, StopHazing
Location:
Track: Violence Prevention
CEUs: CECH credit for CHES, CEUs for counselors, psychologists, & social workers through MIMH, Missouri Credentialing Board for substance use professionals

Developed by StopHazing, new training designed to help groups identify healthy and unhealthy behaviors and dynamics in groups has been developed to supplement the no-cost 10 Signs of Healthy & Unhealthy Groups: Toolkit, created in collaboration with One Love. This session will overview the training, share pilot evaluation data from institutions across the US, and discuss the benefits of educating students on how to build healthy groups and teams as an effective hazing prevention strategy.

Presenter: Dr. Michael Huey, Asst VP for Student Health Services (retired), Emory University
Location:
Track: Student Health Center Topics sponsored by CCHA, Health & Well-being sponsored by CCHA
CEUs: CECH credit for CHES, CEUs for counselors, psychologists, & social workers through MIMH, Missouri Credentialing Board for substance use professionals, Continuing Education for Nurses/Continuing Medical Education

This two session presentation will look at: Part 1: the value of accreditation, how to win campus leadership support for accreditation, written documentation needed, Version 43 changes, and future additions to AAAHC standards about access to healthcare; Part 2 will look at: common deficiencies and how to avoid them, and how to do a mock survey. The presenter has been an AAAHC surveyor for 20 years, with over 70 college health surveys done, and a college health leader at accredited health, counseling and well-being services for 30 years.

Presenter: Taylor Bass, CEO, The Wellness Center
Location:
Track: Student Health Center Topics sponsored by CCHA, Mental Health and Suicide Prevention
CEUs: CECH credit for CHES, CEUs for counselors, psychologists, & social workers through MIMH, Missouri Credentialing Board for substance use professionals

Throughout history, Black girls and women have often been marginalized, and rendered invisible in various spheres such as the workplace, educational settings, households, and even in public spaces. Their achievements and struggles have frequently been disregarded, appropriated, or dismissed. Given this context, how can we enhance our support for this demographic? How can we empower and create a safe space where Black women and girls feel recognized and valued? This session will delve into the historical trends of invisibility and erasure affecting Black women and girls, explore their implications on organizational culture, and subsequently, their influence on clinical care practices.

Presenter: Dave Closson, DJC Solutions
Location:
Track: Health & Well-being sponsored by CCHA
CEUs: CECH credit for CHES, CEUs for counselors, psychologists, & social workers through MIMH, Missouri Credentialing Board for substance use professionals

In the ever-evolving landscape of personal and professional challenges, resilience stands as a beacon of hope and strength. This workshop invites you on a transformative journey, allowing you to delve deep into your own narratives of challenges and triumphs. Through guided reflections, participants will identify their unique strengths and coping mechanisms, leading to the creation of a personalized “Resiliency Toolbox”. Tailored to individual needs, this toolbox will serve as a potent resource in both professional settings, assisting in empathizing and supporting students, and in personal scenarios, equipping individuals to adeptly navigate life’s myriad challenges. Join us for this session and arm yourself with a toolbox that empowers, uplifts, and fortifies your resilience.

Presenter: Ashley Hinton, M.S., MPH Director of Health Promotion, Centre College
Location:
Track: Health & Well-being sponsored by CCHA
CEUs: CECH credit for CHES, CEUs for counselors, psychologists, & social workers through MIMH, Missouri Credentialing Board for substance use professionals

Take the scary out of data and learn practical strategies on how you can promote well-being and bring your data to life through data visualization. This session will help you understand how to make data a little less intimidating and simple tips and tricks for making graphics that promote the important work you do. All skill levels welcome – this is not your typical data session!

Presenter: Anne Rulo, Author/Speaker/Therapist
Location:
Track: Mental Health and Suicide Prevention
CEUs: CECH credit for CHES, CEUs for counselors, psychologists, & social workers through MIMH, Missouri Credentialing Board for substance use professionals

Many suicide prevention trainings focus on the recognition of warning signs, risk factors, and intervention. And while this is an essential part of the conversation, this training will also provide information about patterns of suicidal thinking. When we understand more about what a person in a suicidal crisis is thinking or feeling, we can often support them with more compassion and confidence.

Presenter: Logan Davis, Outreach and Engagement Manager, Higher Education Center for Alcohol and Drug Prevention & Recovery (HECAOD)
Location:
Track: Alcohol, Tobacco, and Other Drug Prevention
CEUs: CECH credit for CHES, CEUs for counselors, psychologists, & social workers through MIMH, Missouri Credentialing Board for substance use professionals

Yes, actually. Everyone can play a role in harm reduction and recovery and in keeping people around them safe(r). Talking about harm reduction and recovery concepts is of vital importance to safety on college campuses. In high-risk environments, it can seem impossible to keep people safe. Harm Reduction and recovery can allow us to change the narrative and flip the script. Instead of an illusion of safety, what steps can we take to keep people safe(r)? Instead of ignorance and stigma, how can we let people know we care about them and support them in their journey of what safe(r) looks like for them. So yes, I very much want YOU to talk about harm reduction and recovery.

American College Health Association’s (CCHA’s) affiliates help members forge strong partnerships with colleagues on the state or regional level.

• Kansas
• Missouri
• Nebraska

CCHA is part of ACHA Region II.

Presenter: Kathleen Ratcliff, Executive Director, Upstream Prevention
Location:
Track: Mental Health and Suicide Prevention
CEUs: CECH credit for CHES, CEUs for counselors, psychologists, & social workers through MIMH, Missouri Credentialing Board for substance use professionals

Many people do not access behavioral or physical health care despite having thoughts of or being at risk of suicide. Yet many of them signal to others – directly or indirectly – that they are struggling. This workshop is designed to provide friends, family and others with information on how recognize and respond to suicide risk with an additional focus on reducing access to lethal means – especially firearms. Participants learn how to talk with someone who might be having these thoughts in a collaborative, non-judgmental and supportive manner.

Presenter: Dylan Dunn, Senior Director of SAFE Campuses
Location:
Track: Alcohol, Tobacco, and Other Drug Prevention
CEUs: CECH credit for CHES, CEUs for counselors, psychologists, & social workers through MIMH, Missouri Credentialing Board for substance use professionals

How We Think About Substance Use Matters – Part II: Applying The Paradigms In this breakout session, as a follow-up to “How We Think About Substance Use Matters”, participants will utilize the framework laid out in the morning keynote to engage in a series of discussions, scenarios, and case studies. While the paradigms inventory can be thought-provoking and reflective, let’s take some time to dig deeper and consider how to apply it in the everyday work of navigating the competing perspectives that influence higher education’s approach to substance use, addiction, recovery, and community partnerships.

Presenter: Nancy McGee, JD
Location:
Track: Law Enforcement, Alcohol, Tobacco, and Other Drug Prevention
CEUs: CECH credit for CHES, CEUs for counselors, psychologists, & social workers through MIMH, Missouri Credentialing Board for substance use professionals, POST for law enforcement

Three major issues facing college communities are the misuse of tobacco products, alcohol, and marijuana. The misuse of these substances can create issues both within the confines of the college campus and the surrounding community. This session will address the dynamics surrounding the misuse of these substances and ways that communities can address concerns to create safer and healthier environments. Emphasis will be placed upon developing community coalitions that consists of multi-disciplinary members who use data to inform and advocate for policy change to reduce town and gown issues. The presenter will provide practical strategies that communities can implement to reduce town and gown strain. The presentation will include a discussion of the need for ongoing regulation of these industries coupled with consistent enforcement

Presenters: Kayla Burns, BS, Health Educator/Wellness Coordinator, and Traci Krygiel, MSW, LCSW, Senior Counselor, Missouri S&T
Location:
Track: Health & Well-being sponsored by CCHA
CEUs: CECH credit for CHES, CEUs for counselors, psychologists, & social workers through MIMH, Missouri Credentialing Board for substance use professionals

Discover how yoga and meditation can enhance your emotional intelligence (EI/EQ) and empower you to lead a more mindful, balanced life. In this workshop, you’ll learn the five pillars of emotional intelligence—self-awareness, self-regulation, motivation, empathy, and social skills—and explore how these qualities can be nurtured through mindful movement and other interactive therapies. Through practical exercises, you’ll gain tools to manage stress, deepen your self-awareness, and respond to life’s challenges with greater clarity and compassion. Join us and start building emotional resilience, making conscious choices, and cultivating the emotional skills that support both personal and professional success.

Presenter: Emma Wilson, Prevention Educator II, PreventEd
Location:
Tracks: Mental Health and Suicide Prevention, Alcohol, Tobacco, and Other Drug Prevention
CEUs: CECH credit for CHES, CEUs for counselors, psychologists, & social workers through MIMH, Missouri Credentialing Board for substance use professionals

As state-level medical and recreational cannabis programs continue to expand across the country, we are also observing increasing evidence that suggests a connection between cannabis use/THC exposure and poor mental health outcomes.

Presenters: Amy Hohenberger, Peer Education Student Coordinator/Prevention and Implementation Intern with Missouri PIP, Kelsie Gibler, Peer Health Education Coordinator, and Stephanie Hooker, Peer Educator, Wellness Resource Center at the University of Missouri – Columbia
Location:
Track: Peer Education
CEUs: CECH credit for CHES, CEUs for counselors, psychologists, & social workers through MIMH, Missouri Credentialing Board for substance use professionals

Peer education is a powerful testament to the effectiveness and potential of student leadership in promoting health and well-being on campus. This program will guide you through the essential steps to establish a new peer education program or strengthen and enhance existing ones. You’ll gain valuable insights from the unique perspectives of a staff coordinator, peer coordinator, and peer educator from the University of Missouri, offering firsthand experiences and practical strategies for successfully implementing a peer education program on your campus.

Presenters Kim Webb, LPC, Director, Relationship and Sexual Violence Prevention Center, Washington University – St. Louis
Location:
Track: Violence Prevention
CEUs: CECH credit for CHES, CEUs for counselors, psychologists, & social workers through MIMH, Missouri Credentialing Board for substance use professionals

This session will delve into the pervasive influence of pop culture in shaping societal norms and behaviors through various mediums such as TV shows, social media platforms, movies, music, and magazines. Attendees will engage in critical analysis to deconstruct some of the prominent and often subtle messages conveyed through these channels. The discussion will focus on understanding the impact of these messages on individuals and society as a whole, particularly in relation to the normalization of sexual violence. By the end of this session, participants will gain a deeper understanding of the powerful role pop culture plays in shaping societal attitudes towards sexual violence and will be equipped with tools to foster media literacy as a means of prevention in education and advocacy efforts.

Presenters: Derek Zboran, Training and Outreach Coordinator, Joey Burns, Student Leader (Joe’s PEERS), and Devashish Nunna, Student Leader (Joe’s PEERS), Missouri S&T
Location:
Track: Peer Education
CEUs: CECH credit for CHES, CEUs for counselors, psychologists, & social workers through MIMH, Missouri Credentialing Board for substance use professionals

Peer education thrives when students are empowered to succeed. This session explores transformational leadership as a framework for developing peer educators into confident, motivated, positive changemakers. Learn to inspire motivation, foster critical thinking, provide personalized mentorship, and model ethical leadership. This session equips educators and staff with actionable strategies to elevate engagement, leadership, and participation within peer education programs.

Presenters: Mandy Schick, M.Ed., MPH, Student Leadership and Wellness Coordinator, and Ada Gallup, MEd, LPC, Clinical Counselor, Columbia College
Location:
Track: Health & Well-being sponsored by CCHA
CEUs: CECH credit for CHES, CEUs for counselors, psychologists, & social workers through MIMH, Missouri Credentialing Board for substance use professionals

Happiness is one of the most sought-after human experiences. But what makes us happy, and how can we cultivate lasting happiness? Drawing from the latest research, this presentation will delve into the foundational elements that contribute to happiness, including genetics, mindset, relationships, and social environments. The session will also provide ideas for programing to help increase student happiness, by emphasizing habits that improve mental health and overall well-being.

Presenter: Emma Wilson, Prevention Educator II, PreventEd
Location:
Track: Alcohol, Tobacco, and Other Drug Prevention
CEUs: CECH credit for CHES, CEUs for counselors, psychologists, & social workers through MIMH, Missouri Credentialing Board for substance use professionals

This session will delve into the pervasive influence of pop culture in shaping societal norms and behaviors through various mWith increasing interest in psychedelics and the potential therapeutic benefits they may offer, the concerns regarding access, potential misuse, and other harms are also increasing. In this presentation, we will first discuss the landscape of psychedelics, including what psychedelics are, their physiological impact, and current use rates. Then, we will examine research and evidence that indicates the potential for therapeutic benefit and the limitations of those findings. Finally, we will highlight concerns from substance use professionals and stakeholders, as well as possible public health threats to consider from a prevention perspective.

Presenter: Madeline Stenersen, Ph.D., Assistant Professor of Psychology, Saint Louis University
Location:
Track: Health & Well-being sponsored by CCHA
CEUs: CECH credit for CHES, CEUs for counselors, psychologists, & social workers through MIMH, Missouri Credentialing Board for substance use professionals

This presentation examines how higher education institutions currently address and support the wellbeing of sex working students, while offering recommendations to enhance campus inclusion. Building upon our previous presentation on sugaring amongst college students, this follow-up session addresses audience requests for more comprehensive insights into campus policy responses. We’ll explore the current struggles faced by students working in the sex industry, and how security protocols, counseling centers, IT regulations, and other institutional frameworks may inadvertently create barriers when they seek assistance. Drawing from interdisciplinary perspectives, we’ll provide practical strategies for creating environments where sex working students feel more welcomed and understood. Attendees will gain actionable knowledge on developing integrated campus frameworks that foster inclusion while ensuring all students have equitable access to resources that prioritize their overall welfare and safety.