Welcome to the 2010 Puget Sound Colloquium
We look forward to hosting you for the Puget Sound Colloquium at Saint Martin’s University on Tuesday, January 26, 2010.

We are pleased to announce this year’s topic presented by Dr. Jason Kilmer, Ph.D. :

"Lessons Learned and Future Directions: Responding to Mental Health Issues and Substance Use of the College Campus"

Over 80 percent of college students report past year alcohol use, and one-third of students report past-year marijuana use.  One in four college students said they felt very sad and one in five said they felt overwhelming anxiety in the two weeks prior to taking a national survey. 96% of counseling center directors perceived an increase in students with more severe psychological problems.  These issues can have a far reaching impact, and can pose challenges for those working in a student affairs setting.  In this presentation, data addressing current mental health and substance use trends will be provided.  Findings surrounding student utilization of services on campus will be described, as well research surrounding "what works" in the realm of prevention and intervention efforts.  Screening will be described as a strategy for early identification of students who could benefit from services, as will factors affecting access to services, coordination of care, and student retention.  Finally, future directions (with implications for student affairs professionals) will be discussed.

Dr. Jason Kilmer is a Research Assistant Professor in Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences and is also the Assistant Director of Health and Wellness for Alcohol and Other Drug Education in the Division of Student Life at the University of Washington. Learn more.

Thank you to all the founding institutions who continue to support the Puget Sound Colloquium as well as NASPA Region V whose generous support makes this professional development opportunity possible.