UNIVERSITY PARK, Pa. — Specializing in diversity, inclusion and health care, Ryan Sallans will speak at Penn State on Feb. 28 at 6 p.m. in Freeman Auditorium. His talk, titled "Becoming Ryan: Eating Disorder Recovery and Transition," is part of a series of events during National Eating Disorder and Awareness (NEDA) Week hosted by Student Affairs.
Ryan Sallans, an inspirational transgender speaker and author of two well-known novels, "Second Son" and "Transforming Manhood," has worked for over 20 years in matters related to sexual orientations, gender identity development and more.
He assists with teaching in health care institutions, federal agencies, universities and communities. Sallans specializes in building inclusive communities and informing students, patients and employees about trauma. His storytelling has served to educate and divulge knowledge to help people break down such gender barriers presented to the public.
Sallans will join Penn State as the keynote speaker for NEDA Week 2024. He will discuss his personal recovery story and current research about eating disorders.
NEDA week will include a series of wellness events and activities in partnership with Health Promotion and Wellness (HPW), the Gender Equity Center, University Health Services (UHS), Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS), and the Center for Sexual and Gender Diversity (CSGD). These events are partially funded by the Laura R. Whitaker Fund.
Be Kind to Yourself: Affirmation Station
Swing by the CAPS and Gender Equity Center table on Wednesday, Feb. 28, from noon to 2 p.m. at the tables on the first floor of the HUB Tables to make bracelets, color and learn how to use affirmations to foster mental, emotional and physical health.
Becoming Ryan: Eating Disorder Recovery and Transition
Attend the keynote presentation on Wednesday, Feb. 28, at 6 p.m. in Freeman Auditorium. The talk blends current research about eating disorders with Ryan’s personal recovery story from anorexia nervosa. With insight as an ethical health educator, Ryan’s journey helps audiences understand the emotions that drive the eating disorder and recovery.
Taking Care of Your Body: Gender Diversity & Transition
Join representatives from CAPS, UHS, CSGD and HPW on Thursday, Feb. 29, from 5:30-6:30 p.m. via Zoom for a panel discussion about myths and misconceptions about caring for your body and creating inclusive access to care. The session can be accessed through Zoom Meeting ID: 933-5043-1232.
For more information about the keynote speaker and NEDA Week events, visit the Student Affairs website.