Our Staff

Denise Williams is the Associate Director of the University of Michigan's MHealthy Health & Well-Being Services. She oversees all operations of the Wellness and Risk Reduction Services (formerly MFit), which include health risk assessments, alcohol management, nutrition and weight management, physical activity, tobacco treatment, corporate wellness, and fitness center management. Previously, Denise held many positions in the wellness field, including Director of Community Health Services at Saint Joseph Mercy Health System- Ann Arbor, and Manager of Wellness, Health Promotion, and Disease Management for Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan. She has also been an independent worksite wellness consultant serving several southeast Michigan corporations.

Craig Kotajarvi is the Program Coordinator for MHealthy Corporate Wellness. He plans and implements of all Corporate Services, including health screenings and events, coaching services, educational seminars, and incentive programs. Craig joined MHealthy in 2006 as a health fitness specialist at the MFit Fitness Center located in the Ann Arbor Ice Cube. He educates, motivates, and empowers fitness center members to make healthy lifestyle choices to improve their quality of life. He also instructs exercise classes for the MHealthy health and well being program and provides personal training services at many of the University of Michigan recreational sports facilities. Craig is an ACSM Certified health and fitness specialist and has a bachelor's degree in exercise and rehabilitative science.

Other MHealthy Staff

On a program by program basis, MHealthy Corporate Wellness may also bring in other members of the same MHealthy team of health professionals that provide services to University of Michigan employees.

Fitness Staff Credentials
All members of MHealthy's fitness staff are required, at a minimum, to have a bachelor's degree in exercise physiology, exercise science, adult fitness, health education, or another health related specialization. All MHealthy staff members are CPR and AED certified. Many have advanced degrees in health disciplines and/or hold certifications from premier industry authorities such as the American College of Sports Medicine or the National Strength and Conditioning Association. Required and monitored continuing education is mandated to maintain certification status.

Nutrition Staff Credentials
MHealthy's registered dietitians have, at a minimum, a bachelor's degree in dietetics, human nutrition, or another related field. In addition to a college degree, supervised field experience is required and a rigorous examination must be passed before one is eligible to become a registered dietitian. Required and monitored continuing education is mandated to maintain the status of registered dietitian. Several of MHealthy's registered dietitians have advanced degrees and contribute additional experience and expertise.

Tobacco Consultation Service Staff Credentials
Tobacco Consultation Service counselors hold masters level degrees in nursing, health education, or psychology. Most are also certified tobacco treatment specialists and complete continuing education requirements annually to maintain certification.

Alcohol Management Staff Credentials
Alcohol Management counselors have a master's degree in social work, nursing, or health education and have had extensive training and experience in alcohol education. The Alcohol Management program is licensed by the State of Michigan Office of Substance Abuse Services to provide prevention services.

Health Behavior and Health Education Staff Credentials
MHealthy health educators have a master's degree in health education, social work, or nursing. In addition to a college degree, supervised field experience is required. Many of our staff hold additional health certifications that can assist consumers in making informed decisions about their health.