5. The SLEEP Program: Evidence-Based Strategies for Better Rest and Wellbeing

Dr. Nicole Persing-Wethington is a Health Educator with Michigan State University Extension’s Health and Nutrition Institute. She leads statewide initiatives focused on falls prevention, mindfulness, social-emotional health, and well-being across the lifespan. She facilitates a wide range of research and evidence-based health programs and partners with government, academic, and community organizations to provide person-centered approaches to well-being education. Her work integrates the science of learning, educational technology, instructional design, behavior change, and systems thinking to strengthen program design and enhance participant impact. She is particularly passionate about translating research into practical tools that empower individuals and organizations to create meaningful, sustainable change. Nicole holds a Bachelor of Science in Organizational Management; Master’s in Learning, Design, and Technology; and Doctorate in Educational Technology.

Liz Williams, M.Ed., is a dedicated health educator specializing in disease prevention and community behavioral health. She offers a wide range of programs aimed at promoting overall well-being. Her areas of interest include sleep health, substance use disorder/harm reduction, Tai Chi and nutrition. She holds a master’s degree in Community Health Education from Wayne State University and earned her bachelor’s degree in Family Studies with a concentration on Substance Abuse Education: Prevention, Intervention, and Treatment from Central Michigan University.

Hello, my name is Gloria Ramsey. Before I retired, I was a primary teacher both overseas and here in zone 8b. Once I retired, I registered for the Master Gardening certification classes through my local extension office. Nowadays you will find me outside with plenty of sunblock and water.Thank you for your participation today and I hope you enjoy the symposium.