April McNally serves as a Health Promotion Specialist at the University of Massachusetts Amherst, where she plays a pivotal role in advancing the health and wellbeing of the campus community. With a diverse background in various aspects of wellbeing, April focuses on stress reduction, mindfulness,...
April McNally serves as a Health Promotion Specialist at the University of Massachusetts Amherst, where she plays a pivotal role in advancing the health and wellbeing of the campus community. With a diverse background in various aspects of wellbeing, April focuses on stress reduction, mindfulness, mental health, and substance use prevention. Her expertise encompasses a holistic approach to health, integrating principles of positive psychology and nutrition into her initiatives.
In her current role, April directs a peer health education internship, empowering students to become advocates for health and safety on campus. This program not only enhances student engagement but also fosters a culture of support and resilience among peers. Additionally, she teaches MIEA Mindfulness classes, where she utilizes mindfulness and mindful meditation techniques to help students cultivate emotional awareness and coping strategies. April's commitment to personal and community health is evident in her collaborative efforts with various departments, emphasizing that health and safety are fundamental human rights.
April employs motivational interviewing techniques when working with students who have violated alcohol and other drug policies, helping them navigate their choices and develop healthier habits. Her skills in event management, project coordination, and budget management are instrumental in organizing workshops and outreach programs that promote mental health and wellness. Passionate about animal therapy, she also explores innovative ways to incorporate animal-assisted interventions into her health promotion strategies, recognizing the profound impact of animals on mental wellbeing. Through her multifaceted approach, April McNally is dedicated to fostering a healthier, more resilient campus environment at UMass Amherst.