2026 Fall Worksite Wellness Conference: Living Well from the Inside Out
Thursday, Nov. 5 | 9 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.
True wellness starts from the inside — how we handle stress, treat ourselves and others, and care for our bodies. The theme of MESSA’s Fall Worksite Wellness Conference is Living Well from the Inside Out.
Join MESSA Health Promotion Consultant Rhonda Jones and a lineup of inspirational speakers on Nov. 5 for this virtual event. It’s free for MESSA members, and SCECH credit is available for MEA members in good standing.
Sessions include:
Pause & Pour into Yourself: Thriving from the Inside Out
Presenter: Dr. Jeffrey Gardere
We pour so much of our energy, attention and care into our work and families that we can forget to pour some of that care back into ourselves. In this engaging, and empowering session, Dr. Jeff explores practical, psychologically grounded strategies for protecting our mental and emotional energy, strengthening resilience, setting healthy boundaries, and reconnecting with the people and experiences that restore us. Participants will learn simple tools to help them pause, pour, protect, connect and thrive — both at work and in life.
Strong Bones, Healthy Life: A Guide to Healthy Aging and Bone Health
Presenter: Jillian Aeder Kleiner, Hinge Health physical therapist
Learn how bones change over time, which lifestyle factors influence bone health, and how weight-bearing and strength exercises can help support strong bones at every stage of life. The session will also highlight how Hinge Health can help participants build healthy movement habits and support their overall well-being.
It Starts Within
Presenter: Shamaine Mcvay, chef and owner of Reddy to Eat Meals
This vibrant cooking demonstration is designed to show how nourishing food can fuel the body, mind and lifestyle. Through fresh ingredients, bold flavors, and simple preparation techniques, participants will discover that healthy eating can be both delicious and satisfying. Chef Shamaine will share practical tips for creating balanced meals that support energy wellness and everyday vitality without sacrificing flavor. You will learn to make intentional choices, enjoy the food you love and thrive from the inside out.
A Tale of Two Diners: Same Food. Different Story.
Presenter: Anisa Ramcharitar-Bourne, Ph.D.
Same person. Same table. Same meal. Two completely different experiences. What changes when we move from eating on autopilot to eating with awareness? In the rush of everyday life, eating can become something we do while doing something else: answering emails, scrolling through our phones, thinking about the next task, or bringing the stress of the day to the table. Participants will explore what it means to move from eating on autopilot and toward eating with awareness, curiosity and compassion.
Member spotlight
Districtwide Wellness: Practical Approaches to Creating, Implementing and Sustaining a Wellness Program
Presenter: Evelyn Harig, physical education teacher, Siple Elementary Davison Community Schools Wellness Committee
Wellness begins from the inside out. To provide a healthy environment for our students, we must first create a healthy environment for our school staff. Hear about one school district’s journey toward health and wellness for their staff, students and community. Learn how to get started creating your own wellness committee within your district or building, with practical and easy-to-implement ideas that support health and well-being.