Governors State University (GSU) students will take center stage at the upcoming Wellness & Education (WE) Conference 2024, set to be held Oct. 24-26 at the Bolingbrook Community Center in Bolingbrook, Illinois.
The three-day event will bring together health and wellness professionals, educators, and students to discuss research and innovations that support community well-being. Among the key contributors will be GSU students Grace Meeks and Alyssa Voss, who will present their research on domestic violence, making a significant impact on the broader wellness conversation.
Meeks and Voss’ work sheds light on a critical societal issue, emphasizing the importance of awareness and actionable solutions for those affected by domestic violence. Their presentation not only reflects their academic dedication but also serves as a vital contribution to community efforts aimed at supporting victims and addressing this pressing concern.
Dr. Ali Cipra, a professor at GSU and a key organizer of the conference, also will be attending alongside her research team. Cipra, known for her expertise in social-emotional learning (SEL) and the brain-body connection, continues to mentor students like Meeks and Voss. Her presence highlights GSU’s commitment to academic excellence and innovation in the wellness field.
For GSU students who attend the conference will benefit in several key ways. First, they can gain firsthand experience of how academic research is presented at a professional level, learning techniques that will be useful for their future careers. Second, the networking potential is immense—students will have the chance to connect with wellness professionals, researchers, and fellow students from other institutions, potentially opening doors for internships, collaborative projects, or future research opportunities. Finally, attending the conference provides a deeper understanding of real-world challenges in health and wellness, particularly how research can be applied to create meaningful change in communities.
In addition to GSU’s contributions, the conference will feature prominent speakers such as Dr. Maria Malayter, Ph.D., an expert in well-being-centered leadership, and Dr. Syeda Ali, MD, who will focus on social and emotional well-being in preventing chronic diseases. Attendees also will hear an inspiring personal story from Dr. Duaa Hamoud, DMD, on overcoming adversity.
The conference offers a platform not only for GSU presenters but also for students looking to broaden their horizons, engage with cutting-edge research, and contribute to conversations that address real-world challenges. As they present alongside professionals and academics, Meeks and Voss will demonstrate the power of student-led initiatives in driving change within their communities.