2nd Annual Health Symposium Recap
Leigh Rowley
A day of learning, connection and new beginnings.
Dr. Carli Schiffner welcomed attendees to the symposium and to the new TulalW Center at Grays Harbor College. Dr. Herbie Duber, MD, presented on important health topics and Jason Halstead, Chief Operating Offcer of Quinault Wellness Center provided information on their services and upcoming expansion.
Four panel discussions took place on complex health issues facing Grays Harbor County:
Behavioral Health Panelists: Bobbie Berkey, ARNP, Director of Medical Services at the county jail and Nicole Newberry, Emergency Room Director of Harbor Regional Health.
Chronic Health Conditions Panelists: Rich Staley, Superintendent of Oakville School District, Addison Houston, climate adaptation strategist at Seattle & King County Public Health, and Brian Ritter, Fire Chief of the City of Ocean Shores
Early Childhood Panelists: Christopher Nesmith, Superintendent of Elma School District introduced us to Eagle Badge Books, Tovi McClellan and Gary Burris of the Child Care Action Council presented on early childhood education.
Thriving Economy Panelists: Kayla Dunlap, Director of Government and Public Affairs for the Port of Grays Harbor, Kyle Pauley, Chairman of the Board at Greater Grays Harbor, and Emily Robertson, Regional Labor Economist at the Employment Security Department.
During lunch the health department premiered the Voices of Resilience documentary and several members of the cast provided updates and answered audience questions.
The afternoon featured an interactive exercise designed to help attendees gain a deeper understanding of behavioral health support systems and challenges.
Chelsea Capoeman led a cultural awareness segment with music, story and student drummers.