Room 1111 (Overflow 1221)

Speakers

Willa Robinson Allen, M.P.H., M.A.Ed., MCHES, Senior Public Health Educator, Health Promotion and Wellness, Program Manager, Durham County Department of Public Health

Joan Packenham, Ph.D.

Room 1111 (Overflow 1221)

Speakers

Joan Packenham, Ph.D., Founder and Chair, Women’s Health Awareness Program and Steering and Planning Committee; Director, Office of Human Research and Community Engagement, NIEHS, NIH

Room 1111 (Overflow 1221)

Speakers

Trevor Archer, Ph.D., Acting Director, Division of Translational Toxicology; Deputy Director, NIEHS; NIH Distinguished Investigator

Trish Harleston, D.Min., President, Durham Alumnae Chapter, Delta Sigma Theta Sorority Inc.

Michael Page, D.Min., Director, External Affairs, Office of the Chancellor, North Carolina Central University

Middle School Climate Change Challenge

“Women’s Health Awareness, Climate Change, and Your Community: Making an Impact on Environmental Health”
Marites De Luna, Sixth Grade Science Teacher, Science Department, Neuse River Middle School, Raleigh, N.C.

Nikki Upchurch, Seventh Grade Science Teacher, Science Department, Neuse River Middle School, Raleigh, N.C.

Room 1111

Speakers

Connie Kim, M.D., Breast Radiologist; Assistant Professor, Radiology, Duke University School of Medicine
Jennifer Plichta, M.D., M.S., Associate Professor, Surgery; Associate Professor, Population Health Sciences; Member, Duke Cancer Institute, Duke University School of Medicine

Session Chair

E. Shelley Hwang, M.D., M.P.H., Mary and Deryl Hart Distinguished Professor of Surgery, Professor of Surgery, Duke University School of Medicine

Abstract

By familiarizing conference attendees with what to expect during a breast imaging appointment, this session will relieve anxiety and encourage adherence to screening recommendations and diagnostic workups for breast concerns. Pictures will be used to illustrate what a patient can expect when undergoing a screening or diagnostic mammogram, targeted breast ultrasound, breast MRI, and image-guided procedures.

Room 1221

Speakers

Sarah Kokosa, PharmD, CPP, Clinical Pharmacist, Department of Pharmacy, Duke University Hospital
Jashalyn German, M.D., Fellow, Department of Medicine, Division of Endocrinology, Duke Center for Research to Advance Healthcare Equity, Duke University School of Medicine

Session Chair

Susan Spratt, M.D., Associate Professor, Medicine; Assistant Professor, Department of Family Medicine and Community Health, Duke University School of Medicine

Abstract

Are you interested in learning more about the medications you are taking? Should you be on that new medication you saw on TV? Are there options to help with rising medication prices? Jashalynn German, M.D., and Sarah Kokosa, PharmD, CPP, a physician and pharmacist team from Duke Endocrinology, will be co-presenting on select topics relating to diabetes medications and resources. Attendees can expect to take away practical information and tips to help better manage their diabetes and medications.

Objectives:

• Review indications and side effects of common diabetes medications.
• Explore diabetes resources beyond your primary care provider.
• Discuss how to approach your health care provider when diabetes medication costs are unaffordable.
• Explore available programs that help patients afford their diabetes medications.

Room 2221

Speakers

Chelsea Ngongang, M.D. , FACC, Cardiologist, WakeMed Heart and Vascular

Session Chair

Angelo Moore, Ph.D., R.N., NE-BC, Assistant Director, Community Outreach, Engagement, and Equity, Duke Cancer Institute

Abstract

This presentation will provide an overview of heart disease prevention, signs and symptoms of a heart attack, and how to speak to your doctor about your risk.

Room 2225

Speakers

Jasmine Getrouw-Moore, M.P.H., Co-Founder, Executive Director, RJ Squared LLC

Session Chair

Tara Owens Shuler

Abstract

Studies show that Black women are three to four times more likely to experience a pregnancy-related death than white women. Black women experience physical “weathering,” meaning their bodies age faster than white women due to exposure to chronic stress linked to socioeconomic disadvantage and discrimination over the life course, thus making pregnancy riskier at an earlier age. RJ Squared LLC offers three foundational points for participants to ruminate and synthesize: 1) we have inherited systems predicted on structural racism, 2) Black women have experienced a long history of mistrust in human service systems (health and health care included, regardless of private pay when administered by white providers or their representatives), and 3) we need to center reproductive justice centered frameworks (i.e., the structural determinants of health, to understand structural racism, systemic and institutional racism, and the implications for reproductive health).

Objectives:

• Participants will learn the definition of reproductive justice and recognize it as a framework for the advancement of human rights.
• Participants will recognize the importance of using a reproductive justice framework when considering the structural determinants of health.
• Participants will learn the significance of applying the reproductive justice framework to human service practice, specifically in the fields of public health and education.

Room 2235

Speakers

Isaac David Smith, M.D., Rheumatologist, Duke Rheumatology Clinic, Department of Medicine, Duke University School of Medicine

Session Chairs

Willa Robinson Allen, M.P.H., M.A.Ed., MCHES, Senior Public Health Educator, Health Promotion and Wellness, Program Manager, Durham County Department of Public Health
Mariah Prince-Allen, DNP, FNP-BC, Team Lead, Division of Hematologic Malignancies and Cellular Therapy; Clinical Associate, Duke University School of Nursing

Abstract

Rheumatoid arthritis is the most common form of autoimmune arthritis in the United States. This disease affects the joints in a predictable pattern and can result in chronic joint pain, changes in the structure of the joints, and a decreased ability to use the joints. This presentation will discuss how to identify rheumatoid arthritis, and what makes rheumatoid arthritis different from other forms of joint pain, like osteoarthritis. We will also discuss the increased risk of heart attack associated with rheumatoid arthritis and some basic treatment options for different types of joint pain.

Objectives:

• Discuss the differences between rheumatoid arthritis and other causes of joint pain.
• Learn about the risk of heart attack with rheumatoid arthritis.
• Review treatment options for different types of joint pain.

Outside (Small Tent)

Fitness Instructor

Karen Parrish, Certified Instructor, Accessible Yoga Ambassador

Abstract

Are you curious about yoga, but have felt excluded due to size, age, or ability? Are you anxious or stressed? Learn how to do yoga in an accessible way for all bodies, while focusing on connecting breath to movement for overall wellness.

Objectives:

• Learn mindfulness meditation and breathing techniques to reduce stress and anxiety.
• Learn ways to improve joint health, flexibility, and strength.
• Learn how to adapt gentle yoga movement to an all-seated class.

Room 1111

Speakers

Tianna Shaw Wakeman, MSSE, Environmental Justice Program Lead, Black Women for Wellness
Elissia Franklin, Ph.D., Postdoctoral Research Fellow, Silent Spring Institute, Northeastern University

Session Chair

Melissa Smarr, Ph.D., Health Scientist Administrator, Division of Extramural Research and Training, NIEHS

Abstract

This session will provide an overview of how racial discrimination can play a role in beauty product use and shape chemical exposures. We will discuss the framework for the “environmental injustice of beauty” and share an overview of the Taking Stock Study (takingstockstudy.org), as well as some of the tools our team is developing for tracking our product use. We will also share ways you can track your own product use, take steps to avoid some of the most worrisome exposures from products, and join the larger movement for beauty justice! The Taking Stock Study is a community-academic collaboration led by Black Women for Wellness and Occidental College, with partners LA Grit Media, Silent Spring Institute, and the Columbia Mailman School of Public Health. The study documents product use among Black women and Latinas living in South Los Angeles, an environmental justice neighborhood (funding from CBCRP, Grant # 23UB-6511, and Passport Foundation). More than 90% of South LA residents are people of color (self-identify as a race other than white) and the area is among the top 25% most disproportionately environmentally burdened in the state. Elevated exposures to personal care product chemicals in women of color have been linked to the “Environmental Injustice of Beauty” — where intersectional systems of oppression (i.e., racism, sexism) can lead to racialized beauty practices. This, in turn, can lead to unequal environmental exposures and poor health.

Objectives

• Discuss the disproportionate exposures to personal care product chemicals.
• Understand the connection between exposures to chemicals found in personal care products and women's health.
• Explore ways you can reduce your own exposures, such as reading labels, reducing your product use overall, avoiding fragrances, and learning about tools such as the Detox Me app as a guide to healthier living.
• Join the movement for Beauty Justice — this is not an individual, but a community challenge!

Room 1221

Speakers

Deidra Roach, M.D., Program Director, Treatment, Health Services, and Recovery Branch, National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism, NIH

Session Chair

Joan Packenham, Ph.D., Founder and Chair, Women’s Health Awareness Program and Steering and Planning Committee; Director, Office of Human Research and Community Engagement, NIEHS, NIH

Abstract

This session will provide an overview of findings from the latest research on: 1) the epidemiology of mental health disorders, substance use disorders, and common physical comorbidities among women; 2) risk factors for harmful drinking among women and girls; 3) gender differences in motivations for drinking and in the neurobiology of alcohol dependence; 4) the health and social effects of harmful drinking among women across the lifespan, with special emphasis on fetal alcohol spectrum disorders; and 5) new developments in the treatment of women who drink at harmful levels, including several collaborative activities to improve access to high-quality, gender-relevant mental health and addiction treatment services.

Objectives

• Describe in broad terms the latest trends in the prevalence of mental health and substance use disorders among women.
• List at least three risk factors for harmful drinking among women.
• Describe gender difference in motivations for regular drinking.
• Define the telescoping phenomenon underlying gender differences in the effects of regular alcohol and other substance use among women.
• List three themes driving current research on the treatment of harmful drinking among women.
• Describe disparities in access to alcohol treatment among women of color.
• List one activity s/he can engage in to raise awareness and reduce the impact of mental health, alcohol, and other substance use disorders among women.

Room 2221

Speakers

Lynette Spencer, M.P.H., RD, LDN, Clinical Dietitian, Duke Endocrinology, Department of Medicine, Duke University School of Medicine

Session Chair

Susan Spratt, M.D., Associate Professor, Medicine; Assistant Professor, Department of Family Medicine and Community Health, Duke University School of Medicine

Abstract

Knowing what to eat can be a bit confusing, especially with all of the diet fads and trends that are out there in today’s society. When it comes to Type 2 diabetes, you want to make sure you are eating healthy and making smart choices whether you are preparing your meals or eating out at your favorite restaurant. The easiest way to start is by following the plate method. This presentation will discuss the components of building a healthy plate that will provide a visual on planning out your portions without having to count, measure, or calculate the food items. It will also discuss healthier food options to fill your plate with, and to be mindful of, the beverages you select to help with managing your diabetes, improving your health, and making you feel good all around.

Objectives

• Learn reasons why having a healthy diet is important.
• Identify the food groups that make up the building your plate method and their portions.
• Learn how to make healthier food options and drink choices.

Room 2225

Speakers

Corina Busuioc, O.D., Optometrist, Duke Opthalmology, Duke University School of Medicine

Abstract

Dry eyes are a common condition in the United States that affect more than 20 million people. However, it affects women at a disproportionately higher rate than men. Dry eye is a complex disease of the ocular surface characterized by a loss of balance of the tear film and accompanied by ocular symptoms, in which tear film instability, ocular surface inflammation, and nerve damage play causative roles. The management of dry eyes can be multifaceted and varies from patient to patient. This presentation will focus on causes, symptoms, testing, and management of dry eye disease.

Objectives

• Learn the common symptoms and diagnosis of dry eye.
• Learn how to manage dry eye.

Room 2235

Speakers

Jessica Garcia, M.A., LPA, HSP-PA, Graduate Student, Department of Psychology, University of North Carolina at Greensboro
Jocelyn Little, B.S., Graduate Student, Department of Psychology, University of North Carolina at Greensboro

Session Chair

Gabriela Livas Stein, Ph.D., Licensed Psychologist; Chair, Department of Psychology, University of North Carolina at Greensboro

Abstract

It is clear that we live in a world with many stressors; therefore, it is no surprise that women in particular, who are often wearing many hats, are living with chronic stress, overwhelm, and feelings of disease. The purpose of this presentation is to help participants better identify when they are becoming stressed, and how to take actionable steps to relieve feelings of anxiety and tap into calmness and vitality. Together, we will practice stress-relieving tools that participants can use in their daily lives.

Objectives

• Learn about the signs of stress and overwhelm, and when to seek outside help.
• Walk away with actionable tools they can use in their daily lives to reduce stress and improve their mental and physical well-being.
• Be guided to practice these stress-relieving tools with the presenters.
• Receive mental health resources for further independent exploration.

Outside (Small Tent)

Fitness Instructor

Marvis Henderson-Daye, Ed.D., MPA, Owner, M. E. Henderson Inc.

Abstract

Come join Marvis, your Chief Fun Officer, for an interactive workshop that will engage your body and soul, and give you a respite from our challenging world. Of all the dances, line dancing gives you the most freedom because you do not need a partner. This workshop will change your mind about line dancing because you will discover there is a line dance to practically every song that makes you want to shake, roll, and bounce.

Objective

• Engage in a new, fun, and exciting fitness activity.

Joan Packenham, Ph.D.

Room 1111 (Overflow 1221)

Speaker

Joan Packenham, Ph.D., Founder and Chair, Women’s Health Awareness Program and Steering and Planning Committee; Director, Office of Human Research and Community Engagement, NIEHS, NIH

Speaker

Robert Bullard, Ph.D., Distinguished Professor, Urban Planning and Environmental Policy; Director, Bullard Center for Environmental and Climate Justice, Texas Southern University

Facilitator

Sharon Beard, M.S., Director, Worker Training Program, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences

Room 1111

Speaker

Nnenna Freelon, Grammy-Nominated Jazz Vocalist, Composer, Actress, Playwright

Session Chair

Pamela Bivens-Pippin, M.A., Director, DEI Programs in People and Culture, Howard Hughes Medical Institute

Abstract

Nnenna Freelon, six-time Grammy-nominated jazz singer and creator of the WUNC award-winning podcast, “Great Grief,” lost her husband Phil Freelon to ALS in 2019, and her sister six months later from cancer. This heartbreak has reshaped her way of being in the world and literally changed her name. “Great Grief Live!” is her effort to invite compassionate conversation around grief and loss with musically supported storytelling. Grief shows up in our community in many different forms, and sometimes it’s hard to recognize. Grief is unavoidable, and Freelon believes the stigma around it adds to our collective suffering. Infusing this often-difficult topic with flashes of hope and humor, she weaves her own personal story with original songs and well-loved standards.

“We Cannot Begin to Heal Until We Acknowledge That We Are Hurting”

Objective

• Learn coping strategies for grief.

Room 1111

Speaker

Goldie Byrd, Ph.D., Director, Maya Angelou Center for Health Equity, Wake Forest University School of Medicine

Session Chairs

P. Renee Myatt, M.P.H., M.A., BOLD NC Project Grant Director, Proprietor, Myatt Professional Services
Toni Chatman, MHA, Associate Director, Oral and Allied Health Education, Wake Area Health Education Center

Abstract

Two-thirds of Americans have at least one major potential risk factor for dementia. Because of the many ways that chronic disease, brain health, dementia, and risk and protective factors are associated, the Healthy Brain Initiative (public health) is working toward improving the understanding of these connections and developing strategies to address risk factors, promote protective factors, and improve overall whole-person health in ways that acknowledge the connection to brain health.

Researchers and clinicians are increasingly recognizing the ways in which brain health is linked to overall health, especially related to Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias. This session will focus on brain health awareness and its impact on communities of color. The need for effective dementia risk reduction strategies that help all communities increases by the day. Learn about how certain healthy behaviors may help reduce the risk of many chronic conditions, which, in turn, could reduce the risk of dementia.

Objectives

• Learn strategies to address dementia risk factors.
• Explore ways to increase brain health in communities of color.

Room 2221

Speaker

Trinitia Cannon, M.D., Director, Head and Neck Surgical Oncology, Duke Raleigh Hospital

Session Chair

Angelo Moore, Ph.D., RN, NE-BC, Assistant Director, Community Outreach, Engagement, and Equity, Duke Cancer Institute

Abstract

Oral cancer (aka mouth cancer) and oropharyngeal cancer (tonsil and base of tongue cancer) are the most common types of cancer that affects the head and neck. Head and neck cancers represent about 4% of all new U.S. cancer diagnoses (with an estimated 66,470 new cases in 2022) and 15,000 deaths. The most common risk factors include tobacco use, alcohol use, and a virus called the human papilloma virus (HPV). We will discuss some signs and symptoms to assess for head and neck cancer and preventative measures.

Objectives

• Learn signs and symptoms of head and neck cancers.
• Learn ways to prevent head and neck cancers.

Room 2225

Speakers

Annette Taylor, M.S., Director, Office of Digital Equity and Literacy, Division of Broadband and Digital Equity, N.C. Department of Information Technology
Bettie Edwards Murchison, B.A., Founder and Executive Director, The Dubois Center; Founder and CEO, W.E.B. Dubois Community Development Corporation

Session Chair:

Kearston Ingraham, M.P.H., Research Program Evaluator, Community Outreach, Engagement, and Equity, Duke Cancer Institute

Abstract

During the nationwide COVID-19 public health emergency, the Department of Health and Human Services enacted policies that broadened reimbursement coverage for medical providers to administer telehealth services during the pandemic to increase access to health care services. We will examine digital health literacy and equity, which highlight barriers to care for traditionally medically underserved communities to access telehealth services. Bi-directional quality improvements developed with community partners to assess digital health indicators and services, as well as building telemedicine capacity, which aligns with priorities to advance health equity, will also be discussed. Prepare to leave with practical tips on how to increase your access, knowledge, and skillset to access and use digital health literacy resources to promote good health and wellness in your daily life!

Prepare to leave with practical tips on how to increase your access, knowledge, and skillset to access and use digital health literacy resources to promote good health and wellness in your daily life!

Objectives:

• Understand broadband access and utilization.
• Identify community resources that provide internet-enabled devices to community members.
• Learn digital health literacy learning opportunities across the skillset continuum.
• Learn about community partners and collaborations that address the digital divide.

Room 2235

Speaker

Crystal Cavalier, Ed.D, MPA, Founder, 7 Directions of Service

Abstract

American Indian and Alaska Native (AIAN) women’s maternal health, addressing the crisis. Native Americans suffer from higher infant mortality, lower life expectancy, diabetes and epidemic levels, and cancer-related disparities higher than any minority group in the U.S. Adverse maternal health outcomes are, in part, due to the historical trauma of systemic racism, colonization, genocide, forced migration, reproductive coercion, and cultural erasure. AIAN women also experience systemic barriers that create unequal social conditions relative to white women. For example, AIAN women are more likely than white women to experience high levels of poverty, live in hazardous conditions, experience food insecurity, and lack access to health insurance.

Objective

• Learn energizing and fun ways to get into shape.

Outside (Small Tent)

Fitness Instructor

Anthony Jones, Owner and Operator, Ready Set Fitness Personal Training Studio

Abstract

Get ready for an energizing and fun full body workout that will “sculpt” you into the best shape of your life! ALL muscles are worked during this class! You will leave feeling stronger and leaner!

Room 1111

Speakers

Jalonne L. White-Newsome, Ph.D., Senior Director, Environmental Justice, White House Council on Environmental Quality
Virginia Guidry, Ph.D., Environmental Justice Lead and Head, Occupational and Environmental Epidemiology Branch, N.C. Department of Health and Human Services

Session Chair

Sharon Beard, M.S., Director, Worker Training Program, NIEHS

Abstract

Local, state, and federal organizations must communicate and collaborate to address health disparities and environmental justice issues in communities. Although organizations have made strides to break down silos and work together more effectively, there are still many challenges that remain. During this session, speakers representing state and federal organizations will share their successes in working with communities to address health disparities and environmental justice issues. Attendees will learn about the various resources that are available on the state and federal levels to help them combat and address these issues.

Objectives

• Identify local, state, and federal resources available to combat and address health disparities and environmental justice issues.
• Share success stories about collaborations between local, state, and/or federal organizations to mitigate a health disparity and/or an environmental justice issue.

Room 1221

Brought to you by the Durham Alumnae Chapter, Delta Sigma Theta Sorority Inc.

Speaker

Shawnta Wright, M.A., LCMHCS, AFAA, Certified Group Fitness Instructor; Licensed Zumba Instructor; Owner of Mindful Bodies LLC

Session Chair

Sharon Mosley, LCMHC, Owner, The Fit Talk PLLC; Author, “My First Time”

Abstract

Due to competing demands for our time, talents, and energy, it is common for women to feel like they are drowning under high levels of stress and to experience personal and professional burnout. In this interactive and engaging session, participants will discuss and practice life-saving physical and psychological self-care and stress management strategies.

The strategies will include, but are not limited to, guided meditation, deep breathing, exercise, regular “dates” with life-affirming friends, setting and enforcing boundaries, and being intentional about our time management.

Objectives

• Review and define mental health, stress, stressors, burnout, and self-care.
• Discuss their barriers to self-care and stress management.
• Discuss and practice physical and psychological self-care and stress management strategies.
• Set SMART goals for their self-care and stress management.

Room 2221

Speaker

Schquthia Peacock, BSN, MSN, Family Nurse Practitioner, Avance Care Medical Clinic, Durham, N.C.

Session Chairs

Angelo Moore, Ph.D., R.N., NE-BC, Assistant Director, Community Outreach, Engagement, and Equity, Duke Cancer Institute

Abstract

This session will provide attendees with necessary information related to screening for common cancers below the waist. This session will discuss risk factors and ways to reduce modifiable risk factors. The speaker will also discuss the important role of the primary care provider in patients on active cancer therapy, including management of blood pressure, diabetes, and cholesterol disorder.

Objectives

• Learn the importance of cancer screenings.
• Understand the role of the primary care provider during cancer treatments.

Room 2225

Speakers

Emily Chang, M.D., Assistant Professor, Medicine, Division of Nephrology and Hypertension, UNC School of Medicine
Keisha Gibson, M.D., M.P.H., Associate Professor of Medicine and Pediatrics; DOM Vice Chair of Diversity and Inclusion; Chief, Pediatric Nephrology Division; Director, Pediatric Nephrology Fellowship Program, UNC School of Medicine

Abstract

There are more than 37 million people in the U.S. with kidney disease and, sadly, only one in nine affected are aware. The burden of kidney disease in North Carolina is high, affecting individuals, families, and communities. Women’s health is unique, and women are at an even higher risk for kidney disease than men. During this session, we hope to increase knowledge and awareness of kidney disease and risk factors, and the importance of keeping kidneys healthy, thus decreasing the chances of needing dialysis or a kidney transplant in the future.

Objectives

• Review the function of the kidneys.
• Educate ourselves about the risks for developing kidney disease and kidney disease progression in women.
• Define strategies to protect kidney health.

Room 2235

Speakers

Ellen Bailey, M.P.H, M.A., Senior Project Manager for Falls Prevention and Team Lead, N.C. Center for Health and Wellness at the University of North Carolina at Asheville
Amber Chapman, B.S., Falls Prevention Project Manager, Appalachian State University

Session Chairs

P. Renee Myatt, M.P.H., M.A., BOLD NC Project Grant Director, Proprietor, Myatt Professional Services
Toni Chatman, MHA, , Associate Director, Oral and Allied Health Education, Wake Area Health Education Center

Abstract

Did you know that falling is not a normal part of aging? While the consequences of a fall are more severe for older adults, falls can be prevented! By the end of this session, you will fall in love with falls prevention, understand some risk factors for falls, and leave with the skills to talk with family, friends, caregivers, or patients about falls prevention.

This session will provide an opportunity for all to learn about how to prevent falls and take steps to reduce fall risk, including taking some actual steps! We will introduce and practice Tai Chi for Arthritis and Fall Prevention, and discuss other topics related to falls prevention, such as home safety, medication management, evidence-based falls prevention programs available in North Carolina, and more.

Objectives

• Learn how to prevent falls and reduce fall risk.
• Learn resources to help in the prevention of falls.

Outside (Small Tent)

Fitness Instructor

Aya Zaghloul, B.S., Certified Zumba Instructor

Abstract

Zumba® combines Latin and international music and dance to create a dynamic calorie-burning form of workout for people of all fitness levels and age groups. This effective fitness system features aerobic training that is a fusion of slow and fast rhythms to tone and sculpt your body.

Objective

• Engage in a creative exercise for calorie-burning, toning, and sculpting of your body.

Room 1111

Speakers

Omega Wilson, M.A., and Brenda Wilson, M.A.Ed., Co-Founders, West End Revitalization Association
Akm Rahman, M.A., Program Operations Branch Chief, and Elsie Vargas, National Urban Fellow, Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program, Division of Energy Assistance, Office of Community Services, Administration for Children and Families, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services
Jasmyne Simmons, B.S., Case Manager, Wake County Human Services

Session Chair

Sharon Beard, M.S., Director, Worker Training Program, NIEHS
Joan Packenham, Ph.D., Founder and Chair, Women’s Health Awareness Program and Steering and Planning Committee; Director, Office of Human Research and Community Engagement, NIEHS, NIH

Abstract

Local, state, and federal organizations must communicate and collaborate to address health disparities and environmental justice issues in communities. Although organizations have made strides to break down silos and work together more effectively, there are still many challenges that remain. During this session, speakers representing local, state, and federal organizations will share their successes in working with communities to address health disparities and environmental justice issues. Attendees will learn about the various resources that are available on the local, state, and federal levels to help them combat and address these issues.

Objectives

• Identify local, state, and federal resources available to combat and address health disparities and environmental justice issues.
• Share success stories about collaborations between local, state, and/or federal organizations to mitigate a health disparity and/or an environmental justice issue.

Room 1221

Brought to you by the Durham Alumnae Chapter, Delta Sigma Theta Sorority Inc.

Speaker

Ruby Brown-Herring, M.Ed., BSW, CEO, RBH Wellness Solutions LLC; Consultant, Continuum Consulting Solutions

Session Chair

Sharon Mosley, LCMHC, Owner, The Fit Talk PLLC; Author, “My First Time”

Abstract

Being a young person is difficult no matter what, and traumatic events such as the pandemic have made it even harder. Between school closures, online learning, and social injustices, early intervention is critical as the prevalence of mental health and substance use problems, suicide, and dating violence increases. When the world changes quickly and suddenly, it is common for youth to experience changes in their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. As a result, it is imperative that parents, caregivers, and other individuals that support young people are equipped with the tools to foster open communication to help them recognize, accept, and cope with the major shifts that have taken place, and continue to take place, in their students’ lives.

Objectives

• Recognize the signs and symptoms of mental health challenges that may impact youth.
• Identify the warning signs and symptoms of substance use disorders in youth.
• Describe the early warning signs of suicide in youth.
• Identify tips and resources for supporting youth and their families.

Room 2221

Speaker

Bradi Granger, Ph.D., R.N., Professor, Duke University School of Nursing
Holly Biola, M.D., M.P.H., Chief, Family Medicine, Lincoln Community Health Center

Session Chairs

Angelo Moore, Ph.D., R.N., NE-BC, Assistant Director, Community Outreach, Engagement, and Equity, Duke Cancer Institute

Abstract

Attend this session to learn how to control hypertension by monitoring blood pressure, utilizing self-management coaching objectives and setting SMART goals.

Objectives

• Describe important risks associated with high, uncontrolled blood pressure.
• Discuss the value of self-monitoring blood pressure.
• Define local ways to get involved in personal goal-setting for the control of blood pressure.

Room 2225

Speakers

Chris Battle, M.S., Homeless Programs Coordinator, Division of Aging and Adult Services, N.C. Department of Health and Human Services

Abstract

A small setback could cause many households to cross the threshold into literal homelessness. There is a need to better understand individuals and families facing housing instability, including those who are doubled-up, and to identify what resources are available in the state and administered by the N.C. Department of Health and Human Services. This presentation will provide attendees a detailed description of the Emergency Solutions Grant and additional resource contact information of other housing programs within the department.

Objectives

• Gain a full understanding of the Emergency Solutions Grant, a state-administered fund earmarked for addressing homelessness, including eligibility, accessibility, and services offered.
• Obtain a list of additional housing resources administered by the N.C. Department of Health and Human Services.

BRITE Room 1009

Speakers

Andrew Elman, M.A., Counselor, North Carolina Central University

Abstract

Think of situation that is giving you trouble – that is particularly relevant for our time. Or a situation that was troublesome, but you’d like to think of it differently. In this workshop, you will explore and focus on the possible good things that came from it. Assess your thoughts and match them with the feeling states you want to enhance through the use of art materials. Grow the good you want to see in the world!

Objectives

• Develop an optimistic perspective.
• Explore a mindful observation of thoughts and feeling and express them through art.

Outside (Small Tent)

Fitness Instructor

Thai-Vu “KiKi” Ton, B.S., Biologist, NIEHS, NIH

Abstract

Falun Dafa is a form of qigong, an ancient Chinese deep-breathing exercise system sometimes combined with Tai chi and meditation. It is proven to promote physical and mental wellness by enhancing the flow of vital energy through a person's body.

Objective

• Learn another way of gentle exercise and meditation.

Lunch Tent

Speakers

Eddie Wilson, Instructor and Executive Chef, Aramark Collegiate Hospitality

Abstract

This demonstration will teach participants how to make a quick, healthy grain bowl that meets their daily nutritional needs.

Objective

• Learn daily food groups for healthy, nutritious meals.

Room 1111

Speakers

Calvin Avant, Ph.D., Pastor, Unity in the Family Ministry; Site Manager, Environmental Worker Training Program; CEO, Avant Training
Cassandra Campbell, M.A., Executive Director, Robeson County Disaster Recovery Coalition Inc.

Session Chair

Sharon Beard, M.S., Director, Worker Training Program, NIEHS

Abstract

Faith-based organizations are deeply embedded in the framework of local communities, especially those impacted by health disparities and environmental justice issues. By connecting with faith-based organizations, other stakeholders can learn about a community’s history, culture, challenges, strengths, and more. Faith-based organizations are often seen as the leaders and gatekeepers within the community. The importance of establishing relationships with faith-based organizations has become more evident in recent years; these relationships are needed to adequately prepare for and respond to disasters. In this session, speakers will share their personal experience working with faith-based and other organizations on issues related to disaster preparedness, health disparities, and environmental justice in communities.

Objectives

• Learn ways to identify faith-based leaders and organizations in communities.
• Share best practices for forming relationships with faith-based organizations.
• Share the benefits of engaging with faith-based organizations for disaster preparedness and response.

Room 1221

Brought to you by the Triangle Park (NC) Chapter of the Links Inc.

Speakers

Alisa Hughley, M.P.H., Founder, enBloom Media LLC; Triangle Park (NC) Chapter of the Links Inc.

Abstract

Join the ladies of the Triangle Park (NC) Chapter of The Links Inc. as they revisit the seminal documentary series from HBO, The Weight of the Nation. Session attendees will view short films that explore the impacts of obesity on health. After the films, clinical professionals will comment on the information presented, as well as help audiences understand where medical knowledge has advanced since the filming of the documentary shorts. Session speakers will link the association of obesity with co-morbidities such as diabetes and cardiovascular disease and COVID-9 complications, the inflammatory response that is incited by obesity and potential long-COVID complications. This moderated panel will specifically discuss the impact of obesity on the health of members of the African American community while answering session attendee questions about issues raised in the film, as well as obesity in general.

Objective

• Session attendees will understand that obesity plays a role in several health issues.

Room 2221

Speaker

Damien Talley, M.Ed., Executive Director, Durham Crisis Response Center

Abstract

Dating abuse or dating violence is the perpetration or threat of an act of violence by at least one member of an unmarried couple on the other member in the context of dating or a courtship. Dating violence encompasses more than simply physical aggression. It also includes psychological, sexual, and emotional harm in a relationship, and it can occur both in person and digitally. It also arises when one partner tries to maintain power and control over the other using abuse or outright violence, for example, when a relationship has broken down. This presentation seeks to educate on how to identify and prevent dating violence.

Objectives

• Learn and discuss the causes of dating violence.
• Learn how you can help a friend in an abusive relationship.
• Understand common gender stereotypes regarding dating violence.
• Learn important prevention techniques.

Room 2225

Speaker

Marva York, MBA, MPA, Durham Alumnae Chapter, Delta Sigma Theta Sorority Inc., Harvard University, Retired Financial Adviser, 20-Plus Years on Wall Street

Abstract

Attendees will learn the principles of financial success and practical ways to make the most out of their earnings.

Objectives

• Learn benefits of financial organization and budgeting.
• Learn ways to increase their income and reduce their debts.
• Learn ways to increase their savings.

Outside (Small Tent)

Presenter

Kareemah Abdusamad, Certified Master Gardener

Abstract

Are you wanting to grow vegetables or herbs this year? If so, this session is perfect for you! You will learn practical ways to start your garden!

Objectives

• Learn what herbs to grow in your garden.
• Learn medicinal properties of herbs.

Room 1111 (Overflow 1221)

Speaker

Joan Packenham, Ph.D., Founder and Chair, Women’s Health Awareness Program and Steering and Planning Committee; Director, Office of Human Research and Community Engagement, NIEHS, NIH