Chris Spearn, Resilience Coordinator, Speaks at Arkansas Colleges of Health Education
Chris Spearn, an AFMC trauma-informed resilience coordinator, will present on the profound impact of Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) on both urban and rural communities. Notably, children in rural communities are at a higher risk of experiencing multiple ACEs compared to those in urban areas. This increased risk presents significant challenges, including poorer health outcomes, lower educational achievement, and increased mental health issues.
Despite the unique challenges faced by urban children, research highlights the urgent need for targeted interventions in rural areas, where resources are often limited. By addressing these challenges through positive childhood experiences (PCEs), we can build resilience and support healthier development paths in both communities.
Chris has over 29 years of experience as an educator and consultant specializing in behavioral health challenges. She has dedicated her career to understanding and addressing students' unique needs. Her expertise enriches AFMC’s mission to promote innovation in health, wellness, and technology. She is deeply committed to fostering resilience through education and community engagement.
Chris frequently collaborates with local stakeholders and parents to raise awareness about crucial topics such as Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs), positive and compensatory experiences (PACEs), and trauma-informed care. Her contributions extend beyond the classroom, as she actively volunteers with organizations like the Special Olympics, serves on the board of the Distinguished Young Women of Arkansas, and coordinates AFMC’s ACEs coalition meetings.
She was recently invited to speak at the New York Institute of Technology College of Medicine at Arkansas State University about the critical link between ACEs and maternal health. Following this presentation, an attendee invited her to speak at the Arkansas Colleges of Health Education (ACHE) on November 21 to commemorate National Rural Health Day. She will speak with students in the Master of Public Health program about the impact of ACEs in urban and rural communities.
Learn more about ACEs and their impact on children's health outcomes.
Join the AFMC PACEs Coalition today!
