Ferris State University’s Public Health programs will be active during the first full week of April, which is designated by the American Public Health Association as National Public Health Week. With a goal to promote prevention of illnesses and injuries, the program’s administration and faculty will welcome the Mecosta County community to four campus events, which will feature experts in their respective subjects.

College of Health Professions Dean Matthew Adeyanju said Public Health Week has been celebrated globally for more than 20 years, and these free events are intended to help county residents lead a healthier and safer life.

"Prevention of illnesses and injuries is a part of every person's daily life," Adeyanju says. "By hosting National Public Health Week events, and providing educational resources, we hope to help build a healthy community in Mecosta County and beyond."

The following Lunch and Learn events will take place from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the West Campus Community Center on Ferris’ Big Rapids campus:

• Monday, April 3 – “The Dangers of Distracted Driving and The Dangers of Social Media” presented by Victor Vandertol, deputy, Mecosta County Sheriff’s Office

• Tuesday, April 4 – “It’s Summer, and It’s Hot!” presented by Tim Kearney, certified safety professional, 3M Personal Safety Division

• Wednesday, April 5 – “How Much is Enough – or Excessive?” presented by Dave Greydanus, assistant professor, Ferris State University School of Criminal Justice

Lunch will be provided and pre-registration is required. More event information is available at online. Those interested are asked to contact Public Health Assistant Professor Margaret Wan at 231-591-3131 by Saturday, April 1.

In addition, on Tuesday, April 4, the documentary, “A Day’s Work,” will be shown starting at 5 p.m., in room 120 of the Interdisciplinary Resource Center. The 2015 film, which is focused on the health risks of temporary workers across the U.S., will be presented by producer Dave DeSario, a founding member of TemporaryEmployees.org. This documentary has been screened at more than 75 locations across the nation, and program organizers with the university are pleased to host the event.