In the dynamic realm of health and human sciences, our students are not merely learners; they are catalysts for change, engaging in multifaceted roles of learning, research, advocacy, and clinical practice. Despite encountering formidable challenges along their academic journeys, these resilient individuals exhibit unwavering determination and grit. Whether immersed in groundbreaking research projects, passionately practicing with and advocating for marginalized clients and communities, or diligently honing their clinical skills, our students embody the spirit of perseverance and excellence. Through their tenacity and dedication, they not only navigate through personal struggles but also emerge as empowered graduates poised to be leaders who will make a meaningful impact in their health and human science fields. WE CONNECT PASSION TO PURPOSE.

Sincerely,

Audrey Shillington, Dean
College of Health and Human Sciences

By Dr. Luis Arabit & Dr. Courtney Boitano, Department of Occupational Therapy

The College of Health and Human Sciences, partnered with the Connie L. Lurie College of Education, hosted the Interprofessional Collaboration Symposium for World Health Day on April 12th. This symposium was an opportunity to join colleagues and students in interprofessional dialogue from the departments of Audiology, Communicative Disorders & Sciences, Child and Adolescent Development, Social Work, Nursing, Occupational Therapy, Recreation Therapy, Public Health, and Kinesiology.

The inaugural Interprofessional Collaboration Symposium held recently was a resounding success, bringing together attendees from various healthcare disciplines for a day of enriching discussions and hands-on learning experiences. Hosted with the aim of promoting dialogue and collaboration across disciplines, the symposium proved to be a valuable platform for students and instructors alike.

Throughout the event, attendees engaged in discussions that bridged different disciplines, allowing them to explore how their respective theories and frameworks could be applied to diverse populations and conditions. Moreover, participants had the opportunity to interact with testing equipment used in biofeedback, hearing screenings, and vestibular evaluation, enhancing their understanding of diagnostic tools and procedures across disciplines.

The symposium’s learning objectives were carefully crafted to facilitate holistic learning and preparation for interprofessional collaboration settings. By increasing awareness of healthcare professional roles in various settings, fostering dialogue around collaboration, and providing practical experiences, the event aimed to equip participants with the skills and knowledge necessary for effective teamwork in educational, fieldwork, externship, and service learning environments.

Feedback from attendees was overwhelmingly positive, with many expressing appreciation for the opportunity to network with peers from different departments and gain insights into interdisciplinary collaboration. The symposium’s success serves as a testament to the dedication and vision of its organizers, who worked tirelessly to create a meaningful and impactful learning experience for all participants.

Dr. Audrey Shillington, the Dean of CHHS stated, “as the symposium sets a precedent for future collaborative endeavors, it heralds a new era of interdepartmental networking and collaboration within the healthcare community. Congratulations to the organizers for their efforts in orchestrating such a successful and impactful event, and here’s to many more opportunities for learning and collaboration in the future!”

By By Paola Quintanilla, School of Social Work

Sophia Zarate graduated from the School of Social Work with her Masters of Social Work (MSW) degree in Spring 2024. In April 2023, she attended Lobby Days in Sacramento and where she learned about the 23Strong Council. After researching what their mission is and how it aligns with her goals, she shared interest in becoming a representative for SJSU’s MSW Program. Being a part of the 23Strong Council Board she got out of her comfort zone and enhanced her leadership skills by networking with others in the field of social work. Most importantly, her involvement with 23Strong Council developed a stronger experience in the macro side of social work whilst learning more about policy and advocacy work.

23Strong is a Council with the National Association of Social Workers, California Chapter (NASW-CA). The purpose of the 23Strong Council is for student leaders from the 23 accredited California social work programs to collaborate through organized efforts and calls to action to combat social injustices and change public policy that oppresses and marginalizes at-risk and vulnerable populations. They do this by addressing social issues through lobbying for policies that align with the NASW and council mission statement through the use of forums, written statements, and community organizing.

Sophia’s role as the board President consists of being responsible for administrative duties related to the day-to-day leadership of the 23Strong Council with guidance and assistance from the 23Strong advisor, vice-president, and in collaboration with NASW-CA institutional regulations and polices. She assists with the recruiting, planning and the onboarding for incoming board members. Furthermore, she assists the treasurer in the facilitation of financial forecasts and forms, leads all monthly board and general meetings, and also facilitates the planning and implementation of three to five academic,informative, and/or educational events throughout the academic school year. Most importantly, as President she serves as a spokesperson for the student body at large, since representing the students of the 23 CSU campuses is the primary goal of the entire student council.

Some of the events that the 23Strong Council have organized are virtual career panels, workshops, Lobby days support, and Lobby Days Social Mixer. This year an initiative they have been supporting is stopping the tuition increases in the CSU system, as well as backing initiatives that support advancing issues related to Black women lacking proper medical care.

Having grown up in one of the lowest socioeconomic areas of San José, Sophia witnessed many of the injustices and inequities that people experienced. The older she became the more aware she was of how little representation these communities receive. Social justice issues are very important to Sophia on various levels, from the people who need social work services to those who provide them and the issues affecting them as a whole. The 23Strong Council affords her opportunities to support social work students and also to advocate and support initiatives aimed at improving the lives of those less represented in vulnerable, marginalized, and oppressed communities. With her MSW, Sophia hopes to continue her path in social work at a macro level where she can help support, advocate, and initiate changes that support all shareholders within the social work field.

By Enjoli Pescheta, Dean’s Office

Over 100 high school students from three distinct districts were greeted with enthusiasm as they arrived for the College of Health and Human Sciences’ Health Programs Preview Day on Friday, May 3rd, 2024. This initiative, launched by the College last year, aims to introduce students to various health-related careers and instill in them the importance of pursuing higher education in these fields from as early as their sophomore year of high school. After the success of last year’s inaugural Health Programs Preview Day with Andrew Hill High School, the College expanded our pipeline programming to include San Jose High School and Milpitas Dual Enrollment School.

Led by our dedicated student ambassadors, the eager participants began their day with a comprehensive tour of San Jose State University’s vibrant campus. Along the way, they were introduced to the vast number of resources available to students and the community at large. This immersive experience allowed the students to envision themselves as integral members of the Spartan Community, fostering a sense of belonging and aspiration.

After the campus tour, the students engaged in interactive discussions with faculty members and current students at our resource fair, gaining valuable insights into the diverse array of health programs offered at the College of Health and Human Sciences and in partnership with the Department of Psychology and Department of Communicative Disorders and Sciences. From nursing to public health, the students were exposed to the multitude of opportunities awaiting them in the field of healthcare.

Following the resource fair, the high school attendees headed to the dining commons to have lunch with their peers. Student ambassadors joined them at their tables, giving the high school students an opportunity to gain knowledge and insight into campus life.

Once the students were done eating lunch, they were divided into smaller groups to explore specific health related departments. During each department visit, students had the opportunity to interact with professors, ask questions, and participate in hands-on activities related to the field.

As the day came to a close, it became evident that the Health Programs Preview Day was not just a college campus visit, but rather a pivotal stepping stone in the educational journey of these young students. With newfound knowledge and inspiration, the high school students departed with a renewed sense of purpose and determination to pursue their academic and professional passions in the realm of health and human sciences.

The core of our mission here at the College of Health and Human Sciences is addressing health equity and critical social issues. You will see in the following articles the outstanding efforts being made by our faculty, students, staff.

The deep commitment of CHHS to this mission is evidenced by partnerships with our community agencies and industry. These partnerships focus on knowledge creation, new technologies, and student clinical and practice work that contribute to the health and well-being of vulnerable populations. Such social issues include food insecurity, addictions, patient-centered interprofessional care, underinsured, and other health and mental health disparities.

You will also read about our faculty and students being recognized for their innovation and leadership by their professional organizations as well as competitive local and federal grant funders.

I am excited to share all these efforts with you. I know you will see by these highlights that our faculty, students, and staff are making incredible contributions and changing the world.

Sincerely,

Audrey M. Shillington
Dean
College of Health and Human Sciences