Augusta University faculty are participating in a new continuing education lecture series this fall, developed in partnership with Via Cognitive Health. The initiative aims to engage community members and highlight ongoing research at the university.
The lecture series was inspired by findings from the US POINTER clinical trial, which indicated that a mix of physical activity, improved nutrition, cognitive and social engagement, and health monitoring can improve cognition in older adults. This research motivated Via Cognitive Health’s Board of Directors to organize the educational sessions.
Zach Kelehear, EdD, Augusta University’s vice provost for Instruction and Innovation and a board member at Via Cognitive Health, led the creation of the series. The lectures, targeted at lifelong learners, feature presentations by Augusta University faculty on topics related to personal health, performance, resilience, and technology in daily life.
Jennifer Pennington, executive director of Via Cognitive Health, commented on the partnership: “Via’s partnership with Augusta University is providing this incredible lecture series on topics we may know little about, creating a real opportunity for learning and cognitive stimulation. It’s exciting to be around intelligent individuals that share their own expertise and challenge us to learn new things.”
One session focused on the relationship between insomnia and mental health. Maleah Winkler, PhD, associate professor in the Department of Kinesiology at the College of Education and Human Development, discussed how exercise can be an effective strategy for reducing both insomnia and mental health conditions such as anxiety, depression, PTSD, substance use disorder, and suicidal ideation.
Winkler shared her motivation for participating: “When research is communicated outside of academics and into the community, it feels very meaningful. I enjoy hearing people’s questions and concerns, and often find them informative and inspiring to keep searching for solutions. The audience in this community series provided real perspectives throughout my presentations which helps direct my next steps in research.” She added that she hoped attendees would better understand the connection between sleep and mental health and recognize the role regular exercise may play in breaking cycles of insomnia and distress.
Rafael Rocha Pacheco, DDS, PhD, associate dean of digital technologies at the Dental College of Georgia, presented on technological advancements in health care, including 3D printing. He highlighted how these technologies are being integrated into education for future health care providers.
“Being a part of this series made me proud to have the chance to talk about something that we do every day, which is integrating digital technologies into health care and education, and to share that with a broader audience,” Pacheco said. “I wanted to give people a sense of how deeply technology is shaping patient care and the education of our future providers.” He noted his goal was for participants to leave informed and eager to discuss digital technologies’ impact on patient care with others.
Guido Verbeck, PhD, chair of the Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry at Augusta University’s College of Science and Mathematics, gave presentations on using breath as a diagnostic tool for disease markers. Verbeck’s lab developed an FDA-authorized breathalyzer during the COVID-19 pandemic that demonstrated high specificity and sensitivity rates in detecting COVID-19 in both symptomatic and asymptomatic patients. His team has since received funding from the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation to test the device for tuberculosis detection in South Africa, with ongoing results showing promising accuracy rates.
Verbeck explained his approach: “The only way to move technology and new invention forward is to be able to communicate it properly and communicate it to an audience that’s more prevalent than the academic peers where it’s typically done. Via Cognitive Health is a fantastic venue for this, because it really teaches us how to engage in the community.”
The next set of lectures will include faculty from Augusta University’s School of Computer and Cyber Sciences, Katherine Reese Pamplin College of Arts, Humanities, and Social Sciences, as well as James M. Hull College of Business. Topics such as artificial intelligence and investment strategies during challenging times will be covered from October 15 through November 12. Interested individuals can find further details about upcoming sessions and registration options online.
