Embedding Health and Wellness into Higher Education Campuses Using the Eight Dimensions of Wellness Model
Event Details:
Date / Time:
Thursday, October 29, 2026 | 4:00 to 5:30 p.m.
Location:
Hislop Auditorium, Thurston Hall
Utica University
(Virtual attendance also available)
Admission is free
Description:
The Institute for the Study of Integrative Healthcare invites students, faculty, healthcare professionals, and community members to join us for a special two-part presentation exploring one of the most widely recognized frameworks for understanding wellness: Peggy Swarbrick's Eight Dimensions of Wellness Model. This engaging event will begin with an overview of the model's eight interconnected dimensions—physical, emotional, social, occupational, financial, environmental, spiritual, and intellectual wellness—and examine how these dimensions can work together to influence our overall quality of life. Attendees will gain practical insights into how everyday choices, habits, relationships, and environments contribute to personal well-being and resilience across the lifespan.
The second half of the program will feature findings from an interdisciplinary faculty fellows research project led by three faculty fellows from occupational therapy, physical education, and health and wellness disciplines. The study examined how college students can use the Eight Dimensions of Wellness Model to develop healthier habits, improve well-being, and create sustainable self-care practices. Using both quantitative and qualitative research methods, the project explored how students' understanding of wellness evolved over a semester-long program designed to help them identify strengths, overcome barriers, and take a proactive role in their health.
Whether you are a student seeking strategies for managing academic and personal demands, a healthcare professional interested in holistic approaches to wellness, or a community member looking to improve your quality of life, this presentation offers valuable perspectives on what it means to thrive as a whole person. Join us to learn how an integrative, strengths-based approach to wellness can empower individuals to make meaningful choices that support health, purpose, and well-being both today and into the future.
Featured Presenters
Cicily R. Talerico, OTD, '25-'26 Institute Faculty Fellow
Cicily is a proud Utica alumna who has 20 years of experience working as an occupational therapist. She primarily worked with children and families, and in mental health inpatient and community settings. She also has experience working in schools, acute care hospitals and in an outpatient balance clinic. Cicily earned her Master of Occupational Therapy and her post-professional Doctorate in Occupational Therapy from A.T. Still University Mesa, Arizona. Prior to becoming a full-time faculty member, Cicily had been an adjunct instructor at Utica University for the Occupational Therapy Program and Health Sciences since 2009.
Trista Richardson, OTD, MS/OTR/L, '25-'26 Institute Faculty Fellow
Trista is currently the Director of Academic Fieldwork and a Professor of Practice in the Occupational Therapy department at Utica University in Utica, NY. She recently earned her Post Professional Doctorate in Occupational Therapy from Utica University after previously earning her master's degree from Utica University. She also currently works as a private practice Occupational Therapist. Trista’s research interests include Health and Wellness, Mind-body Interventions, and Craniosacral therapies as stress management and resiliency.
Jae Sung Park, PhD, '25-'26 Institute Faculty Fellow
Dr. Jae Sung Park is an Associate Professor of Physical Education, Exercise & Wellness Studies at Utica University. He earned bachelor's, master's, and doctoral degrees in Physical Education from Korea University, as well as a master's degree in Health Education and Recreation from Southern Illinois University. His teaching and scholarship focus on exercise and wellness, therapeutic recreation, and the role of physical activity in improving quality of life for individuals with disabilities. Dr. Park's research explores therapeutic exercise interventions, therapeutic recreation programming, and community reintegration through wellness-based approaches. Through his work, he is committed to advancing holistic health, inclusive recreation, and lifelong well-being.
More Information
Eight Dimensions of Wellness Guide
R.S.V.P.
Contact Us
Bethany A. VanBenschoten, M.S.
