ST. GEORGE — Dixie State University’s Exercise Science Program recently launched the Trailblazer Center for Lifelong Health & Wellness to help members of the Southern Utah community engage in healthy lifestyles.
As part of the center’s mission, students develop and lead health and wellness programs for Washington County residents of all ages and abilities to help improve their overall quality of life, according to a press release issued by the university. In return, the community participants, known as mentors, provide the students with advice and feedback that help students gain the skills and confidence to be successful in their studies and future careers.
“What makes this center different is its focus on community members serving as mentors for our students,” Lori Newell, the center’s director, said. “We want community mentors to play an active and vital role in the training and success of our students.”
In addition to building community partnerships, the participating Dixie State students gain personalized hands-on learning experiences that prepare them to graduate career ready.
While the center focuses on health and wellness, it involves students studying within a variety of academic disciplines. In addition to students in Dixie State’s Exercise Science Program leading classes in yoga, fitness, dance and other forms of exercise, computer science students help expand virtual reality exercise programs by developing apps, games and software appropriate for different groups. Additionally, music and art students teach classes for mentors with Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s, and humanities and psychology students assist with intake forms and connect mentors with helpful resources.
Programs are offered through a collaboration with Intermountain Healthcare LiVe Well Center, Dixie State’s Institute for Continued Learning, Community Education and Campus Recreation and other community partners.
To learn more about Trailblazer Center for Lifelong Health & Wellness and how to become involved as a mentor, visit health.dixie.edu/trailblazer-center or contact the center’s director, Lori Newell, at 435-0879-4886 or [email protected].