March 2013…Twelve Philadelphia-area leaders will be featured in a new book written and illustrated by students participating in the Healthy NewsWorks student media program.
They include Philadelphia Police Commissioner Charles Ramsey, Free Library of Philadelphia President Siobhan Reardon, and PHILADANCO Founder Joan Myers Brown. The 12 individuals have been chosen because of their efforts to enhance health and wellness for children and their families.
“These individuals are wonderful role models who show that everyone can play a significant role in making our communities healthier and safer,” said Marian Uhlman, Healthy NewsWorks director.
More than 65 elementary and middle school students in Healthy NewsWorks schools have contributed to the book called Leading Healthy Change In Our Communities 2013. This edition will include a companion teacher guide to encourage classroom discussions and activities. Books can be sponsored for donation to schools, pediatric practices, youth organizations, among other venues. They can also be purchased.
Here is the complete list of Healthy NewsWorks leaders:
- Marcus Allen, chief executive officer, Big Brothers Big Sisters Southeastern Pennsylvania.
- Joan Myers Brown, founder of The Philadelphia Dance Co. (PHILADANCO).
- Tyra Bryant-Stephens, M.D., founder of the Community Asthma Prevention Program at The Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia.
- Mariana Chilton, Ph.D., director of the Center for Hunger-Free Communities, Drexel University School of Public Health.
- Beatriz Garces, D.M.D., cofounder of The Garces Family Foundation.
- Neil Izenberg, M.D., editor-in-chief of KidsHealth.org, Nemours/Alfred I. duPont Hospital for Children.
- Mohammed Al Jumaili, community volunteer and student, Abington High School.
- Heather McDanel, executive director, Students Run Philly Style.
- Charles Ramsey, commissioner of police, City of Philadelphia.
- Siobhan Reardon, president, The Free Library of Philadelphia.
- Sheldon Watts, assistant professor of public health, Temple University.
- Mike Weilbacher, executive director, Schuylkill Center for Environmental Education.
“Our students have learned so much from all these interviews and we look forward to sharing the leaders’ insights,” said Ms. Uhlman.
Healthy NewsWorks will celebrate the students’ work on Wednesday, June 5, with a book-signing event at the Merion Tribute House.
