By Elijah McGuire-Berk
Web Editor
Washington College’s department of Wellness Education and Prevention has a new interim director, Rachel W. Boyle, who will replace previous Director Lauren Gibson.
Boyle has worked for the College for the past 15 years as the head field hockey coach and coordinator of Student Athlete Services. She sees certain similarities between the two positions.
“What is most enjoyable is the ability to interact with students from a mentoring and educational standpoint, only in my new interim role, I am able to do this in a much more vast way,” she said.
Boyle is glad that she can do more to help students around campus. “The opportunities to work on the development of the students in the areas of overall wellness, healthy decision making, leadership, combined with the opportunities to provide educational programs, guidance and support, is something I truly enjoy and am looking forward to as I continue to learn and evolve personally and professionally in the position.”
According to the mission statement on the Office of Wellness and Prevention website, “The office serves as an advocacy and educational resource for all members of the WC community in the areas of alcohol and other drugs, all forms of gender-based violence, and overall student wellness.”
“The office supports student wellness by promoting students’ development of moral courage, social responsibility, and decision-making to enhance the student experience.”
Boyle’s coworker, Operations Supervisor for Public Safety Susan Golinski, believes Boyle is a fit choice for her new position. “I believe Rachel has a passion for the work that she is doing,” she said. “This comes across as soon as you meet and talk with her. She is very responsive and cares deeply for our students.” Golinski added that she hopes Boyle is given the permanent position of director.
For more information on the Office of Wellness Education and Prevention, check their website at www.washcoll.edu/offices/wellness-and-prevention-education/ .