Join us for an interactive event focused on empowering individuals with practical tools and knowledge to support their mental and emotional well-being. This fireside chat will feature two expert speakers from the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) San Diego. We'll delve into key aspects of mental health, including the influence of social media, the critical connection between nutrition and mental wellness, and the vital role of caregivers in creating a supportive environment. Whether you're just beginning to explore these topics or seeking to deepen your understanding, this event offers practical insights to guide you on your journey to better mental health. Small bites and refreshments will be served.

Program

5:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m.  Networking
6:00 p.m. – 6:15 p.m.  Welcoming Remarks
6:15 p.m. – 7:00 p.m.  Fireside Chat
7:00 p.m. – 7:30 p.m.  Q&A
7:30 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.  Networking

Speaker Bios

Julie Benn, Communications and Wellness Specialist for NAMI San Diego & Imperial Counties

After graduating with a degree in journalism and psychology, Julie spent a decade working as an award-winning journalist and advertising copywriter in various San Diego businesses. In 2006, she founded NAMI San Diego and, after a stint of volunteer work for the organization, began working as their Communications Specialist, writing press releases, speeches, blogs, brochures, articles, and grants as well as doing public presentations on mental health throughout San Diego County. In 2021, she took on the role of Wellness Coordinator for the employee base, which had grown from 15 to more than 150 people during Julie’s tenure at NAMI. Julie brings her unique experience as a person who lives with mental illness to her position, enabling her to offer an “insider” perspective to the work she does for NAMI.

Cathryn Nacario, Chief Executive Officer of NAMI San Diego & Imperial Counties

NAMI is the largest grassroots mental health organization in the nation. Cathryn is passionate and dedicated to serving all those impacted by mental health challenges. Her fusion of nonprofit and for-profit work is to serve more individuals and their caregivers living with mental health concerns. This includes being Regional Vice President of Business Development, West, for Kindred Healthcare’s Rehabilitation Division and Chief Executive Officer of Kindred Hospital San Diego. Cathryn started her career as a registered nurse in the nonprofit setting, working with vulnerable populations in the Cajon Valley School District and as the Executive Director of the Borrego Medical Center in rural San Diego County. Cathryn earned her BSN-RN and a Masters in Healthcare Administration. Cathryn is an elected member of the NAMI National Board of Directors, where she serves as President.

Linda Strause, PhD, Principal & Founder of Strategic Clinical Consultants, Moderator

Dr. Strause has decades of expertise in global clinical operations, phase 1 through 3 studies, with emphasis on oncology and ethical considerations for subjects with life-threatening diseases. She has held executive management positions at a global CRO, site management and healthcare research organizations, and biotechnology companies. In addition, Dr. Strause has served as President of Ei.Ventures, advancing the science of psychedelics, both therapeutic and nutraceutical products, and as Co-Founder, with her two sons, of Randy’s Club, whose mission is to encourage a healthy lifestyle by providing proprietary hemp-formulated products made with 100% organic hemp materials. Dr. Strause has been a professor at UC San Diego since 1980 and teaches an Introduction to Human Nutrition course. She is a founding member of WIB-San Diego (formerly WIB-Southern California) and served on the Programs Committee and Advisory Board. 
 

Pricing Information

• Members/Guests: $20
• Non-members*: $30
• JCVI Employees: $20

*Interested in joining Women In Bio? Click here to learn more about WIB membership and gain access to our video library, mentorship opportunities, and more. 

Please read WIB's Code of Conduct, In-Person Event Waiver, and Refund Policy.

Note: A confirmation email will be sent after registration has been completed. 

Maximum Capacity

100

Parking Information
Please park in the underground garage. You are welcome to pull into any available space.

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