Meet Katie Parks, the Health Promotion Coordinator for Violence Prevention and Response at the Wellness Center. She received her B.S. in Psychology and Women & Gender Studies from Central Michigan University in 2019 and her Master of Social Work degree from the University of Michigan in 2021. She is the lead organizer for Show Up, Speak Out, an open mic and survivor speak out event with learning opportunities to show our support for survivors of sexual assault.

Q: How can students get involved in the Health and Wellness space?

A: Students can apply to be a Wellness Ambassador through the Wellness Center! The position will be posted soon. There will also be a 6-week Mindfulness Series starting the week of April 25th that students can participate in! Email [email protected] for more information.

Q: Why is Show Up Speak Out important to you?

A: Show Up, Speak Out is an opportunity for survivors to have their voices heard and for the campus and community to show their support. It’s the one event of the year where survivors are at the center. It’s also a great opportunity for people to learn more about consent and how to talk about these topics.

Q: Why is the Wellness Center important for college students?

A: The Wellness Center helps CWU students live their best and healthiest lives. Our goal is to give students the tools they need to be academically, personally, and professionally successful.

Q: Why is Sexual Awareness Month an important thing for everyone to be aware of?

A: One in four college women will experience sexual assault. Everyone knows someone who’s been impacted by this issue. We all need to start talking about sexual assault and what we can do to prevent it from happening.

Q: What has been your most memorable moment at CWU?

A: Getting to participate in Orientation programs including Speed Meeting and the Drag Show. That was such a fun week!

Q: When you were younger, what did you want to be when you grew up?

A: Originally I wanted to be a pop star (still waiting for my big break).