D’Youville University Launches Peer Wellness Ambassador Program to Advance Student Wellbeing and Campus Safety

D’Youville University has launched the Peer Wellness Ambassador (PWA) Program, an innovative initiative that engages graduate students as trained, trauma-informed wellness leaders who promote student wellbeing, bystander intervention, and the prevention of domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault, and stalking (DVSAS).

Housed within Student Affairs and operating through the Wellness Lodge, the Peer Wellness Ambassador Program empowers graduate students to serve as visible, approachable leaders on campus. PWAs foster a culture of care through proactive outreach, peer education, and engagement focused on mental health, personal safety, and violence prevention. Ambassadors also connect students to campus and community resources while supporting awareness events and informal peer support.

“The Peer Wellness Ambassador Program reflects D’Youville’s deep commitment to creating a campus environment where students feel safe, supported, and empowered to care for one another,” added Benjamin Grant, Vice President for Student Affairs. “By investing in trauma-informed, peer-led education and outreach, we are strengthening our culture of accountability and compassion while giving students meaningful leadership opportunities that directly impact campus wellbeing.”

The PWA Program is supported by a U.S. Department of Justice, Office on Violence Against Women (OVW) Campus Program Grant, which enhances D’Youville’s capacity to prevent and respond to DVSAS. The grant strengthens a coordinated, campus-wide approach through prevention education, survivor-centered advocacy, bystander intervention, and collaboration among key campus and community partners. Through this funding, D’Youville advances trauma-informed services, student engagement, and institutional accountability to foster a safer and more supportive campus environment.

D’Youville’s First Peer Wellness Ambassadors

• Linda Varela, MFA Dramatic Theatre Arts, Class of 2027
  Linda brings creativity, communication, and community engagement skills to her role as a Peer Wellness Ambassador, supporting wellness education and student outreach initiatives across campus.
• Sarah Joseph, MS Nutrition and Dietetics, Class of 2027
  Sarah contributes a strong foundation in health promotion and holistic wellness, supporting peer education and prevention efforts that promote healthy, informed student communities.

Program Leadership & Advocacy

• Shavon Eason, BSW, Campus Advocate
  Shavon provides survivor-centered support, resource navigation, and advocacy for students impacted by interpersonal violence.
• Jessica Bosch, MSW, Project Director for Wellness Education
  Jessica oversees the DOJ OVW Campus Grant and the Wellness Lodge, leading campus prevention strategies, supervising grant-funded initiatives, and ensuring trauma-informed, equitable wellness programming for the D’Youville community.

“The PWA Program strengthens our ability to support students in meaningful, preventative ways while ensuring that care, education, and accountability remain at the center of our campus culture,” added Danielle Nesselbush, Dean of Students and Title IX Coordinator. “By empowering students as trauma-informed peer leaders, we are expanding access to support, encouraging bystander intervention, and reinforcing our commitment to preventing sexual misconduct and interpersonal violence while fostering a community where every student feels seen, heard, and supported.”