Panel Discussion on Combating the Loneliness Epidemic, Sept. 23 at Fairfield University
Fairfield University’s School of Education and Human Development introduces a new Dean’s Dialogue Series with the lecture “Combating the Loneliness Epidemic: Science. Connection. Healing.”
Fairfield University‘s School of Education and Human Development (SEHD) will host a panel discussion: “Combating the Loneliness Epidemic: Science. Connection. Healing.” on Monday, Sept. 23 from 6-8 p.m., at the Dolan School of Business Event Hall.
A recent report from the U.S. Surgeon General highlights a growing public health crisis in America: loneliness, isolation, and a lack of connection are pervasive issues affecting millions. These feelings of disconnection can profoundly impact both physical and mental well-being, contributing to the alarming statistic that more than one in five adults, and over one in three young adults in the U.S., are living with a mental illness.
In response to this urgent need, the School of Education and Human Development will introduce the inaugural Dean’s Dialogue Series, with this important conversation.
“As we launch the inaugural Dean’s Dialogue series, we confront a critical issue facing our society: the loneliness epidemic. This series reflects our School’s unwavering commitment to serving our communities and building meaningful connections,” said Dean of the School of Education and Human Development Evelyn Bilias Lolis, PhD. “Through dialogue, collaboration, and interdisciplinary expertise, we aim to foster understanding, compassion, and solutions that truly connect and uplift our shared humanity,” said Lolis.
Dr. Lolis will engage a panel of experts to discuss the impact of loneliness, and strategies for creating connections. This event is ideal for K-12 educators and mental health providers, first-year students new to Fairfield, and undergraduate and graduate students.
Panelists include:
Michael Pisseri, MA’00, principal of Davenport Elementary School, Stamford Public Schools.
Samantha Miller, portfolio director, Connecticut Opportunity Project; Dalio Education.
Paula Gill Lopez, PhD, chair and program director of School Psychology at Fairfield University, and co-founder of the Connecticut Center for School Safety and Crisis Preparation.
Clinesha Johnson, PsyD, licensed psychologist and assistant dean of students at Fairfield University.
Wendy Mendes, MS, NCC, LPC, professional counselor, and director of student well-being at Fairfield Bellarmine.
Attendees will:
- Increase their awareness and understanding of the widespread issues of loneliness and isolation, particularly among youth and young adults.
- Explore the effect of loneliness and isolation on youth, including implications for healthy development, purpose, and leading a meaningful life, from the perspectives of K-12 education, higher education, research, and community stakeholders.
- Learn practical strategies for fostering feelings of connectedness in schools, on college campuses, and in communities, including tips and anecdotes shared by panel members.
- Strategize ways to build communities of connection through interactive activities such as Padlet, group discussions, and table talks.
Prior to the panel discussion, attendees will have an opportunity to learn about helpful resources that support and connect students from members of Fairfield University’s Campus Ministry, the Center for Social Impact, Counseling and Psychological Services, and the Koslow Center for Marriage and Family Therapy.
Please register here for this free event.
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