Chelsea Wells Holcombe to Coordinate VSU’s Health Education Efforts

VALDOSTA — Chelsea Wells Holcombe has been named the health educator for Valdosta State University’s Office of Health Promotions, effective Jan. 1.

“I am extremely excited about this position, especially to be given this opportunity at my alma mater,” said the two-time VSU graduate who earned a Bachelor of Science in psychology in 2011 and a Master of Science in clinical-counseling psychology in 2013.

Holcombe previously worked for VSU’s Office of Event Services as a student assistant, graduate assistant, and then event reservations coordinator. Already having contacts and established relationships on campus made her transition from one role to the other a smooth and easy one, she added.  

The Office of Health Promotions offers a number of programs designed to educate VSU students, faculty, and staff, and occasionally members of the general public, about domestic violence, partner violence, sexual assault, sex, safer sex, sexually transmitted diseases, stress management, body image issues, eating disorders, relationships, and more.

“One of my main goals in this position is to work on quality, efficient programming for students that meets their needs, as well as collaborating with different student organizations, departments, and the community,” she shared. “I also want to focus on programming that incorporates education on overall wellness.”

Holcombe is already working on a peer educator program that she hopes to roll out during the fall semester of the 2015-2016 academic year. She also looks forward to earning her Rape, Aggression, and Defense (RAD) instructor certification and developing new ideas and programs for sexual assault prevention and awareness.

“I am really enjoying the people I work with …,” she said.

Self-described “huge dog and animal lovers,” Holcombe and husband Johnny — the couple married on Nov. 8, 2014 — have two dogs, Oakie and Oreo. Her hobbies include spending time with her family, husband, and dogs; reading; participating in group fitness classes; practicing yoga; and running. She has already completed several half marathons, 10Ks, and 5Ks and has a 15K coming up at the end of January.

Holcombe is an active member of VSU’s Campus Wellness Committee and helps with the Miss VSU Pageant. She is a member of the Valdosta Alumnae Chapter of Zeta Tau Alpha and the membership advisor for the Eta Iota Chapter of Zeta Tau Alpha.

Contact Chelsea Wells Holcombe at (229) 245-3896 or cwells@valdosta.edu to learn more.

On the Web:

http://www.valdosta.edu/student/student-services/counseling-center/health-promotions/welcome.php

Valdosta State University’s 2013-2019 Strategic Plan represents a renewal of energy and commitment to the foundational principles for comprehensive institutions.

Implementation of the plan’s five goals, along with their accompanying objectives and strategies, supports VSU’s institutional mission and the University System of Georgia’s mission for comprehensive universities. 

The hiring of Chelsea Wells Holcombe as health educator with the Office of Health Promotions helps the university meet the following goal: 

Goal 5: Develop and enhance Valdosta State’s human and physical resources.

Visit http://www.valdosta.edu/administration/planning/strategic-plan.php to learn more.