LaVaughn Palma-Davis, M.A.
Senior Director of University Health and Well-Being Initiatives
LaVaughn Palma-Davis is currently the Senior Director for University Health and Well-Being Services at the University of Michigan. In this role, she provides leadership for the implementation of the MHealthy strategic plan, an ambitious collaborative effort to leverage the University's resources to promote the health and well-being of faculty, staff, dependents and retirees and contain health care costs. LaVaughn provides direction to over 80 employees in numerous programs and services including: wellness and risk reduction services (tobacco cessation, nutrition and weight management, alcohol management, physical activity, stress management, etc.), employee assistance programs, occupational health clinical services, ergonomics, and community health promotion outreach. LaVaughn has over 25 years of experience in health promotion and health care administration, having served in a variety of capacities for the UM Health System as well as for Blodgett Memorial Medical Center. She also was the project director for leadership development strategy for the Health System. LaVaughn received her B.S. in Health Education from the University of Dayton and her Master's Degree in Public Health Education from Central Michigan University.
Robert Winfield
Chief Health Officer and Director, University Health Service
Dr. Robert (Bob) Winfield, the University of Michigan’s chief health officer and executive director of University Health Service, passed away on October 14, 2016, leaving a lasting legacy that will continue to touch our university community for many years to come. Over his 35-year career at U-M, he became known as a caring and compassionate physician, a thoughtful leader, and a mentor to many. He has been a leader in the development of university policy on a variety of health-related concerns. From 2001 to 2003, he headed the university's Mental Health Work Group, which created recommendations for far-reaching changes to improve mental health support for students. He co-chaired both the SARS Campus Planning Group and the Infectious Hazards Planning Group, working closely with many units of the university, Michigan Medicine and the Washtenaw County Health Department. He served as a member of the Michigan Healthy Community Task Force and co-chaired the Student Health and Wellness Subcommittee. He also chaired the Integrated Disability Oversight Committee and co-chaired the MHealthy Steering Committee, both charged to improve the health, well-being and productivity of the university’s faculty and staff. Forever a teacher, Dr. Winfield’s penchant for learning was matched only by his commitment to helping others. Dr. Winfield will always be remembered for his kindness, generosity, integrity and exceptional leadership.
MHealthy Staff Credentials
When you participate in an MHealthy program, you can rest assured that you are in the hands of highly educated and experienced health professionals. All program staff are required, at a minimum, to have a bachelor's degree in a health-related field such as exercise physiology, exercise science, nutrition, health education, or nursing. All program staff are certified in CPR. Many also have advanced degrees in health disciplines or hold additional health and fitness certifications.
Fitness Staff Credentials
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 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.