In December 2024, Simpson College’s Pre-Health and Exercise Science Club underwent an entirely new installation of its office members. Previously tailored to STEM-based majors with a focus on exercise science, the club is being reworked to be more inclusive of students from all academic backgrounds.
“Both the Health and Exercise Science Club and Pre-Health Society have been strong for many years, so I’m really excited that the two clubs merged this year,” club advisor Nicci Whalen said. “In the past, they shared many of the same members and interests, so now together they are bringing strong leadership and energy while better utilizing resources.”
Newly inducted president Savana Walls, a junior majoring in health and exercise science, is eager to increase campus awareness of the club and attract students from various majors who may not have been exposed to the club’s events in previous years.
“I’m excited for our club because it is for everyone who is interested in living a healthier life, being more active and getting farther into practicing nutrition,” Walls said. “I can’t wait to build a community around nutrition that has a space for everyone on campus, regardless of their major.”
Meetings with the club usually include a healthy snack and an informational presentation from health professionals, such as dieticians, nurses and physical therapists.
So, how does the club’s new leadership plan to gain new members across campus?
Through plenty of events.
Sophomore biochemistry major Abby Rouse, the club’s newly appointed treasurer, shared a list of upcoming club events and her excitement for the club’s future.
“I’m excited to hold a leadership position in a club on campus and to see how our new club members take our workshops and events as a means to being healthier,” Rouse said. “It’s an accomplishing feeling to think that we can influence the health of our peers.”
What better way is there to increase excitement on our campus than Bingo?
The club recently held its first event of the year—Bingo—featuring health-related prizes and an impressive turnout of new attendees.
The club will be hosting more events this semester, including:
March 3 – Make protein balls with Simpson nutritionist Missy Anker
March 24 – Mobility session with a UGA speaker
April 7 – Bowls and Bracelets with a nutrition speaker
May – Yoga in Buxton Park
With new leadership and fresh ideas, the club is working to increase its presence on campus. Beyond weekly meetings, members are encouraged to take an active role in planning workshops, leading discussions and participating in hands-on activities that promote a healthier lifestyle.
The club is actively finding new ways to engage students and provide practical knowledge they can incorporate into their daily routines. The club hopes to create a welcoming space where students can explore health and fitness in a way that fits their personal goals.
“I want to fully emphasize how this club is for everyone and not just those in the majors directly attached to it,” Walls said. “It’s less about being in a health-related major, but rather, bringing together those on our campus who share a passion for nutrition and creating the best versions of themselves.”
For more information on the club and its upcoming events, follow them on Instagram @spsc_healthylives to get involved.