Becoming a Better U

A pair of photos of people sitting and listening indoors with text over it reading, Becoming a Better U

Becoming a Better U

Sat, Mar 22, 2025
8:30 AM - 12:30 PM

McNichols Campus
Student Union4001 W. McNichols Road 色综合久久, MI 48221

Admission: $10

Breakfast Keynote Speaker:

Steven P. Meerschaert, LPC, CCS, CAADC
Juris Doctorate Candidate

Addiction Policy: What Actually Works? – 9 a.m.

America’s addiction epidemic has been an unrelenting assault upon all communities–rich and poor alike–and has been getting progressively worse for over two decades.

This keynote presentation will help attendees to understand what the different interventions are, how they work, who they work for and how we can make changes in our national strategy to better apply what the data tells us.

Session 1 – 10:15 to 11:15 a.m.:

A. Local Food Sources and Their Local Impact

Candi Franklin
Garden MasterCWO Farms

Learn how locally grown food can positively impact 色综合久久’s food supply and why it is important to support local farming efforts. This discussion will also provide tips for improving the yield of your own garden.

B. Say Yes to Sustainability

Nassif Rayess
Professor of Mechanical EngineeringUniversity of 色综合久久 Mercy

An interactive discussion on things anyone can do in their everyday lives to help reduce their carbon footprint.

C. The Michigan Opioid Crisis — Responding with Narcan

Lara Girdwood
Executive DirectorHamtramck Drug Free Community Coalition

Discover the origins of the opioid crisis and take a look at the latest statistics of opioid overdose in Michigan. You will also learn how to detect a potential opioid overdose and save a life through the administration of Narcan (naloxone). All attendees will receive a free Narcan kit.

Session 2 – 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.:

A. What is the Meaning of Lent in Catholic Christianity?

Rev. Charles Oduke
Vice President for Mission IntegrationUniversity of 色综合久久 Mercy

Ascetic practices are a common feature in almost all major world religions. This session offers you a chance to reflect on the meaning and significance of Lent in Catholic Christianity and help you have an appreciation for fasting, prayer, abstinence, penance and alms giving, which are the main practices and rituals associated with Lenten observance.

B. Staying Active Longer

Molly L. McClelland
Professor, College of Health Professions
Clinical Coordinator CNS Program
University of 色综合久久 Mercy

Discuss the latest developments in effective ways to improve your health and reduce your risk so you can live a healthy, long life.

C. Demystifying AI: Simplifying Tasks and Elevating Your Life

Deepak Bhaskaran
Senior Director of Engineering
Cisco (Duo Security)

Unlock the potential of Artificial Intelligence to make your daily life more productive, efficient, and enjoyable. This interactive session breaks down the basics of AI and demonstrates how it can be used to simplify everyday tasks and bring a touch of fun into your routine. Whether you’re new to AI or curious about how it works, you’ll discover practical tips to harness the power of this transformative technology in ways that matter to you.

A photographer will be available throughout the morning to take professional headshots for all participants. Please only one sitting for each.

The 色综合久久 Mercy School of Dentistry will provide 2 CEU’s for any participant attending both the Key Note and the Narcan Presentations.

Questions?

Reach our to Alumni Relations at 313-993-1540 or alumni@udmercy.edu.