Live a healthier lifestyle with research-based tools.
Make informed decisions about health choices with cutting-edge research from University of Illinois. Find a session that's perfect for you.
The Community Seminar Series is a collaboration between Illinois Extension and Interdisciplinary Health Sciences Institute at University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign.
Signing up is easy:
- Sessions are free, and registration is required.
- Choose as many sessions within the series as you wish to attend.
- Complete the registration process.
- CPDU and CEUs are available: CEUs are provided through the Continuing Education Institute of Illinois. Once you have registered for your desired sessions, please check your registration confirmation email for a link to purchase CEUs.
If you need a reasonable accommodation in order to participate, contact Dee Walls at walls1@illinois.edu. Early requests are strongly encouraged to allow sufficient time to meet access needs.
Access previous sessions on health topics by visiting our recorded session archives.
Springtime Science 2025
Growing Minds: Understanding and Supporting Children's Executive Function | March 5
Did you know a child's early environment and relationships shape their ability to focus, manage emotions, and solve problems? Explore how household dynamics, green space access, and parent-child interactions impact executive function. Learn practical strategies to foster healthy development and create a supportive environment. Presenter: Dr. Sam Iwinski.
Is It All in My Head? Mind-Body Approaches to Pain | March 12
It's no secret that biopsychosocial factors can lead to uncomfortable body sensations, but what does this mean for how we approach pain and health in general? Learn more about the biopsychosocial model of pain and how to apply this framework to your daily life. Presenter: Malee Powell, MS, LMT.
Boosting Immunity: The Benefits of Physical Activity | March 26
Discover how physical activity strengthens your body's natural defenses. Explore how staying active boosts your immune system, prevents chronic illnesses, and promotes overall well-being. This session is perfect for anyone looking to enhance their health and vitality through movement. Presenter: Femi Ayoola.
What Can I Read? Who Can I Be? Exploring the Impact of Book Bans | April 2
In an increasingly tense political landscape, book bans have become a topic of conversation nationwide. This talk discusses the history of book bans, why they happen, and what people can do to prevent them. Presenter: Andrew Zalot.
Ampliar el Acceso a los Alimentos: Compras de Comestibles en Línea para las Comunidades Rurales de Bajos Ingresos | Abril 9
Esta presentación destaca el papel de la compra de comestibles en línea como una estrategia para mejorar el acceso a los alimentos en las comunidades rurales. Por sus investigaciones, Karen Gutiérrez explorará cómo este enfoque puede apoyar los resultados sobre la salud y nutrición de las poblaciones desatendidas. Los participantes aprenderán cómo las soluciones innovadoras pueden fomentar el acceso equitativo a los alimentos y mejorar el bienestar de la comunidad.
Mind-Body Techniques: Strategies for Better Sleep | April 16
Quality sleep is an essential component of physical and mental well-being. Mind-body practices can be utilized to promote and improve sleep quality. This presentation will provide an overview of sleep biology, the importance of sleep routines, and specific mind-body strategies to enhance sleep. Presenter: Stephanie Voss.