School of Education and Human Development Dean's Dialogue Series: “Combating the Loneliness Epidemic: Science. Connection. Healing.”

6 p.m. Doors Open/Resources Fair

6:30 p.m. Panel Presentation 

A recent study from the U.S. Surgeon General reported that Americans currently face a public health crisis of loneliness, isolation, and lack of connection. During this inaugural Dean's Dialogue Series, Evelyn Bilias Lolis, PhD, will engage a panel of administrators, psychologists, and mental health experts to discuss the impact of loneliness on healthy development and strategies for creating meaningful connections. 

This event is ideal for faculty and staff, undergraduate and graduate students, K-12 educators, and community mental health providers and is an FYE Inspire event for first-year students.

Prior to the panel discussion, attendees will have an opportunity to learn about helpful resources that support and connect students at Fairfield from Campus Ministry, the Center for Social Impact, Counseling and Psychological Services, and the Koslow Center.

Following the panel discussion will be a table talk activity. Light refreshments will be served.

The panel will consist of:

Michael Pisseri, MA’00, Alumnus, Fairfield University alumnus and current principal of Davenport Ridge 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 the Co-Founder of the CT Center for School Safety and Crisis Preparation

Clinesha Johnson, PsY.D, Licensed Psychologist and Assistant Dean of Students at Fairfield University

Wendy Mendes, MS, NCC, LPC, Professional Counselor and Director of Student Well-Being, Bellarmine College