Devin's Story

I am a man of strong conviction and believe in the primary value of service to others, with education as a means to that end. Beyond school, working in Recreation and Wellness is part of what makes me happy to be at BGSU, as this environment encourages me lead a balanced and healthy life. 

Getting people to care about people is a main motivator to me, and teaching others about a variety of health topics as a Peer Educator achieves that goal.
Growing up in a rough area in Detroit, MI has motivated me to take action to make a difference in the lives of others, and at the Wellness Connection, this opportunity exists. Getting people to care about people is a main motivator to me, and teaching others about a variety of health topics as a Peer Educator achieves that goal. Peer Educators present throughout campus to groups and student organizations on topics including healthy relationships, nutrition, body image, alcohol and other drugs, and sexual health. I enjoy making meaningful connections with others as I share my journey and teach. 

While many staff in the department have been a positive influence on me, Faith DeNardo, Wellness Connection director, and Matt Reising, graduate assistant, have taught me so much! They have taken the time to listen to my passions and helped direct me toward success. I’ll admit, at times I thought I could change the world overnight. Matt and Faith supported me to frame and organize my ideas into manageable and feasible action plans, and to apply my leadership ability to our office, to my positions in RecWell, and to my life overall. I recommend getting involved as a Peer Educator and in RecWell programming to any student at BGSU––the people and programs here really make a difference! 

Through my work involvement in Recreation and Wellness, I have also had the opportunity to represent BGSU at the Ohio Recreational Sports Association, the BACCHUS Regional conference, and the NASPA conference, proudly winning the 2015 Outstanding Student for the BACCHUS Institute of NASPA. 

Beyond BGSU, I enjoy reading, and I am also an EMS for the city of Detroit and serve as a medic in the US Army. 

Learn more about Peer Education