Dr. Jessica Duncan Cance, assistant professor of health behavior and health education, joined Wellness Network, in part, because of her strong belief that environmental-level strategies can improve health, and that campus coalitions are a critical way to implement those strategies.

 "I was drawn to Wellness Network because my research is focused on the prevention of risk behaviors, particularly high-risk substance use, among adolescents and young adults," she said. She recently backed her research with an editorial in support of a statewide ban on smoking in public places that was published in UT News.

 Jessica serves as co-chair of the High-Risk Drinking Committee and has recently led work to identify environmental factors that may impact high-risk drinking among students in order to develop prevention strategies.

 Jessica said she is encouraged by the understanding within Wellness Network that the key to a healthy campus is to promote a positive environment. "I am motivated by the inspiring work of my colleagues here at UT," she said. "As part of the Wellness Network, I've had the opportunity to work with individuals I would have never met otherwise. I have a better understanding of all that is being done, from the Division of Housing and Food Services to the Health Promotion Resource Center, to help keep our campus healthy."