Health Promotion Team
Cathy Jager
Manager, Nursing and Education
Taryn Aarssen (She/Her)
Health Promoter
To me, wellness, is a state of practicing the things that will contribute to a personal state of health and inner peace. It is dependent on other aspects of our life such as access to resources, relationships, identity and the environment we live in.
Interests: I enjoy biking around Hamilton to explore the many trails and parks.
Madison Behr (She/Her)
Health Promoter
For me, wellness speaks to the mental, physical, social, and spiritual needs of a person. In order to be well, we need to meet our needs within these categories- and this will differ from person-to-person!
Interests: Artwork, playing soccer and basketball, and going on family walks.
Jin Byun (He/Him)
Health Promoter
In my opinion, wellness means balancing the various aspects of health (physical, mental, spiritual, emotional) to live in a state where we are feeling and functioning the best we can. It involves listening to your given needs and engaging in actions that allow you to flourish, such as finding a form of sustainable and enjoyable exercise, deliberately scheduling “free time” to decompress, or strengthening your support network by socializing with friends and family.
Interests: Playing sports, exploring new restaurants, travelling, and spending time with friends.
Madeline Parr (She/Her)
Communications Coordinator
For me, wellness is a daily commitment to nurturing physical, mental, and emotional well-being through simple yet impactful practices. It’s about embracing self-awareness and self-love, recognizing our needs and treating ourselves with kindness and compassion.
Interests: I enjoy cycling, golfing, skiing, reading, watching sports, and doing my nails.
Student Staff
Fayth Frank (She/Her)
Program Support Assistant
Honours Life Science
For me, wellness is a holistic concept that involves caring for my physical, mental, and spiritual well-being. These interconnected pillars contribute to a fulfilling life through understanding my needs, setting boundaries, and aligning choices with my values.
Interests: I enjoy running, playing sports, working out, reading, and drinking iced coffee.
Darren Sajeevan (He/Him)
Program Support Assistant
Honours Life Science
To me, wellness involves being mindful of everything that affects how you feel, including your environment, sleep, exercise, and diet. Prioritizing these aspects helps us be the best versions of ourselves every day.
Interests: I like to stay active playing soccer, working out, drumming, and I appreciate a good taco.
Michael Sampaio (He/Him)
Communications Assistant
Honours Kinesiology
To me, wellness means integrating habits into my daily routine that support both my physical and mental health. It also means allowing time for enjoyable but less healthy activities like watching TV or playing video games, and understanding that being too hard on yourself for missing these habits is counterproductive.
Interests: I enjoy walking my dog, reading, biking, and thrifting. My top hobby is exercising, which has taught me discipline and commitment.
Rachel Steirman (She/Her)
Program Support Assistant
Honours Political Science, in Judicial Studies and Public Law
I believe wellness involves various elements that enhance life and bring genuine enjoyment. For some, it may be exercise and strong relationships, while for others, it could be solitude or meditation. Each person’s path to wellness is unique, reflecting the tools and practices that help them fully engage in life.
Interests: I enjoy camping, fishing, paddle boarding, skiing, reading, and doing crafts.