New committee expands focus on nutrition, health, and well-being across the Elisabeth DeLuca School of Nursing.
From L to R: Susan Cote, Michelle Judge, Ph.D., RD, CD-N, and a UConn Nursing student during the Nutrition, Health, and Wellness Committee's aromatherapy event. (UConn Photo/Coral Aponte)
The University of Connecticut's Elisabeth DeLuca School of Nursing is strengthening its commitment to whole-person care through a growing emphasis on holistic wellness-both in the classroom and across the nursing profession.
Building on a decade of leadership in holistic nursing education, including the launch of its online graduate Holistic Nursing certificate program. In February of 2026, Dean Dickson designated the Nutrition, Health, and Wellness Committee as a standing committee, to further integrate well-being into academic and community life.
Created in 2024, the committee focuses on fostering a culture of health and wellness among undergraduate and graduate students, faculty, and staff. Its mission is to promote holistic well-being by supporting physical, mental, social, and emotional health across the UConn Nursing community.
"Through this initiative, students develop practical skills that help them slow down, breathe, and stay centered," says Michelle Judge, Ph.D., RD, CD-N, associate professor and committee chair. "These are essential tools for building resilience and maintaining a healthy work-life balance amid the demands of academic and clinical training."
This spring, the committee launched Nourish to Flourish, a series of workshops and events designed to support nutritional, emotional, social, and cognitive well-being.
The series began in February with a cacao and dark chocolate tasting, where participants engaged their five senses to deepen awareness of the mind-body connection while also exploring the nutritional properties of cacao and learning how mindful eating can support overall well‑being. The session blended sensory experience with education, giving participants a richer understanding of the intersect of food choices, cultural history, and nutrition.
In March, the committee hosted an interactive aromatherapy session featuring guest aromatherapist Susan Cote. Participants explored how aromatherapy can enhance focus, reduce stress, and support overall well-being through hands-on experiences, including an aroma bar and guided demonstrations.
The committee's next event, Mindful Planting, is on April 28, where registered participants can learn about the benefits of whole and organic foods and simple planting techniques. Those who attend can also create their own vegetable or flower planter to take home.
"As a committee, we strive to cultivate a thriving culture of wellness through evidence-based practices, education, and research initiatives," says Judge.
Judge, a registered dietitian, has dedicated her career to advancing holistic health through nutrition-focused research and education. Her work emphasizes balanced dietary patterns and the therapeutic potential of food to support long-term well-being.
Co-chair Leslie Lapointe, MSN, APRN, CPNP, CHSE, a clinical instructor at the School, brings complementary expertise in integrative health, stress management, environmental health, and horticulture. She also serves as the UConn chapter lead for the American Holistic Nurses Association.
Together, Judge and Lapointe are helping to shape a student-centered culture that prioritizes wellness as a foundational component of nursing education and practice.
"Through collaboration, education, and advocacy, we are creating an inclusive environment where everyone can thrive," Judge says. "The committee offers students meaningful opportunities to develop leadership skills and contribute to a culture of wellness and mindfulness across our programs."
To learn more about the UConn Nursing Wellness committee visit: Nutrition, Health, & Wellness Committee | Elisabeth DeLuca School of Nursing
