Students will have a unique opportunity to attend the Women’s Health Fair in the Oak Room on Thursday. Local health professionals, University experts, and guest lectures will take part in an effort to raise awareness and increase knowledge about important women’s health issues.
‘I think it’s an awesome project since it gives girls on campus an opportunity to make sure they are healthy and gives guys a chance to see some of the things women have to do to stay healthy,’ said Megan McLaughlin ’10, ‘which should give them greater respect for their friends, girlfriends, moms and sisters.’
Dr. Amy Chang of Counseling and Psychological Services, one of the offices on campus helping to plan this event, explained that the last Women’s Health Fair was held about six years ago.’ This year, when talking with the Office of Student Affairs, ‘we were trying to figure out a way to publicize women’s resources on campus’ said Chang. They then went forward and resurrected the Women’s Health Fair.
Thursday’s fair will consist of two different parts. At one end of the Oak Room, there will be a series of speakers throughout the day. These guest lecturers include Dr. Joanna Wynne, a local pediatrician, who will be talking about hot topics in women’s health as well as Fairfield’s nutritionist who will be talking about healthy eating.
In addition to the informative talks, there will be helpful demonstrations from some of the staff at the RecPlex.’ Jonell Hopkins will be demonstrating weight training and Jeannie Stevens will be having a yoga demonstration.
The other part of the event will consist of about 17 different tables that ‘basically are geared toward women’s issues’ said Chang. Outside businesses will also be in attendance.’ The Center for Women and Families of Bridgeport will be talking about domestic violence issues and Renfrew Center of Ridgefield is an organization that focuses on treatment of eating disorders. Another outside organization that will be taking part in the fair is Mountainside, which focuses on substance abuse.
There will be athletes and employees from the Athletic department as well as student groups focused on women’s issues such as Project Peg and the Vagina Warriors.
‘I am really impressed with the collaborative effort this event represents,’ said Mary Sullivan ’09. ‘The planning process has sparked conversations that have careered over into classrooms and hopefully will continue to do so after the event.’
Sullivan also added that there is a lot of room for improvement in regards to reproductive health and wellness, and hopes that student leaders move forward in their efforts to promote these issues.
Not only will there be a lot of knowledge to gain, but there will also be opportunities to win raffle prizes and gift bags throughout the days event.
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