Join us for our 2026 Health Equity Panel - Mental Health across the Lifespan: Community Health and Healing on Saturday, April 25, 2026! This event is “Presented by Truist Bank”.
This Health Equity Panel is designed as an inclusive annual event that convenes a diverse audience committed to advancing health and reducing barriers to healthcare. The event includes an expert panel discussion with a complimentary luncheon and keynote speaker – TV Judge Glenda Hatchett who will discuss self-care, a healthy cooking demonstration, a community resource fair with free giveaways and resources, and breakout sessions.
This event will bring together mental health professionals, educators, caregivers, and community leaders to discuss mental wellness and support at every stage of life. The primary goal is to foster resilience, reduce stigma, and improve access to culturally competent care within the community. The discussion will focus on the evolving mental health needs of individuals across different life stages (e.g., youth, general adults, older adults) and emphasize collective action for building healthier communities.
Location:
Hampton University
Hampton University
100 E Queen Street
Hampton, VA 23669
There will be three breakout sessions as follows:
Introduction to Mental Health First Aid
- Presenter: Ashley Gregory, DHSc, MPH, CHES, BCPA, Director Program Outreach and Impact, Macon and Joan Brock Virginia Health Sciences at ODU, Office of Community Health, Education & Training, Division of Community Inclusion and Health Equity
Self-Care and Work/Family Integration
- Presenter: Melissa Gomes, PhD, APRN, PMHNP-BC, FNAP, FAAN, Associate Dean of Strategic Wellness and Opportunity & Psychiatric Mental Health Nursing Specialty Lead, University of Virginia
Your Guide to Support: Finding What You Need
- Presenter: Jennifer Campbell-Raab, BSN, RN, Behavioral Health Education Coordinator, Riverside Mental Health and Recovery Center
Moderator:
Betsy Lang, MHA,BSN, RN, NE-BC, CPHQ, Behavioral Health Director, Riverside Mental Health and Recovery Center
Betsy Lang, MHA,BSN, RN, NE-BC, CPHQ, Behavioral Health Director, Riverside Mental Health and Recovery Center
Our Expert Panelists:
- Stacey Johnson LCSW, MBA, Riverside Mental Health and Recovery Center, Hospital President/VP
- Kristie Norwoord, PhD, Hampton University, Director of Student Counseling Center
- Juanita Burtt, MSN, APRN, PMHNP-BC, Hampton-Newport News Community Services Board, Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner
- Ashley Gregory, DHSc, MPH, CHES, BCPA, Macon and Joan Brock Virginia Health Sciences at ODU, Director Program Outreach and Impact
- Vanessa Jenkins, Ed.D., Norfolk State University, Director of Health & Wellness
- Francine Pearce, M.D., MBA, Sentara, Medical Director of Health Impact and Engagement
Registration is required. To register, please click on the yellow Register Now button to the right and complete the form. The registration deadline is Saturday, April 18, 2026.
For more information, please contact Toiya Sosa via email or call 757-534-7022.
We look forward to you joining us at this event!