Hosted by the Physician Assistant Studies and Clinical Mental Health Counseling (CMHC) programs, the event emphasized a shared commitment: both physical and mental health are essential to overall well-being. As Elon expands its graduate health programs in Charlotte, both programs are intentionally preparing practitioners who understand the value of whole-person care and collaborative practice.

Robyn Wolkofsky, assistant professor of physician assistant studies, opened the event and welcomed guests to campus. Assistant Professor of Physician Assistant Studies Lavette Shirley shared updates on the continued development of the PA program and its focus on preparing clinically strong, patient-centered providers. Judy Folmar, chair and interim program director of the CMHC program, spoke about the region鈥檚 growing mental health needs and the importance of training counselors who are equipped to address these with competence, compassion, and cultural humility.

In addition to program information, attendees enjoyed refreshments and participated in Valentine鈥檚 Day鈥搕hemed crafts and wellness activities designed to reduce stress and reinforce the connection between physical and mental health. The gathering created space for meaningful conversation about student preparation, clinical partnerships, and the future of integrated healthcare in the Charlotte region.

As both programs prepare to welcome future cohorts, events like this help build strong relationships with prospective students and clinical supervisors who play a vital role in training the next generation of healthcare professionals.

HSS student Sophie Whelan, alongside Department Chair Judy Folmar, welcomed attendees as they entered the vibrant, welcoming space. The room was filled with a sense of excitement as students, staff and families mingled, many catching up with old friends and making new connections.

The event featured a shared meal, offering an informal yet meaningful way for participants to come together, share stories, and learn more about each other’s experiences. For many, it was a chance to connect after a busy start to the semester and share in the sense of belonging that is fostered in the HSS community.

Creating Gratitude Cards

One of the highlights of the event was the creation of personalized gratitude cards. In an effort to promote positivity and mindfulness, attendees were invited to write notes of appreciation for others in their lives鈥攚hether it be faculty, classmates, family members, or anyone who had made a positive impact. The cards were designed to be given to individuals who could benefit from a simple act of kindness or to be shared within the community as a reminder of the importance of showing gratitude.

Participants took part in this activity with enthusiasm, carefully crafting thoughtful messages and using their creativity to make each card special. For some, it was a reminder of how small acts of kindness can make a lasting impact, both within the classroom and beyond.

Building Stronger Connections

The event emphasized the importance of creating and nurturing meaningful relationships within the Human Service Studies department. By bringing together students, faculty, and families, HSS hopes to continue cultivating an inclusive and supportive environment for everyone involved. As Dr. Folmar noted:聽 鈥淭hese moments of connection are vital in building a strong, resilient community that is rooted in care and service to others.鈥�

This event served as a reminder of the department’s commitment not only to academic excellence but also to fostering a compassionate and collaborative environment where everyone feels valued.

On Wednesday, March 1, the Human Service Studies Department, Student Professional Development Center and Belk Library co-hosted Cate LeSourd ’15, a strategic communications graduate with human service studies and entrepreneurship double minors.

LeSourd spoke to Elon students about preparing for life after graduation and what “no one tells you” about navigating this part of adulthood. Cate’s discussion highlighted quotes from her book “Coming of Age: Our Journey into Adulthood”聽which includes the results of research she conducted with over 1,000 young adults who struggled with the transition to life after college.

Embracing the unknown and unexpected, as well as finding one’s inner strengths were major themes from her talk.

LeSourd, who talked about her own traumatic job loss and a painful rescinded job offer, helped students take comfort in knowing things don’t always go as planned, that not having everything planned out is okay, and things will eventually work out. Cate plans to continue various ways of helping others through difficult transitions. A reception and book-signing followed the lecture.