William Paterson University (WP) on Monday announced the appointment of Jill Guzman as the institution’s first-ever chief wellness officer. A veteran of the University for more than two decades, Guzman’s promotion marks a strategic shift toward a holistic, campus-wide approach to health and wellbeing.
In this landmark role, Guzman will lead efforts to forge new partnerships with regional health care systems, secure wellness-related grants, and oversee initiatives designed to improve the physical and mental health of students, faculty, and staff.
While taking on these new executive responsibilities, Guzman will maintain administrative oversight of the Counseling, Health, and Wellness Center (CHWC), which she has directed since 2013.
“The health and wellbeing of the William Paterson community is fundamental to the success of our students, faculty, and staff,” President Richard Helldobler said. “Dr. Guzman’s proven leadership… will be invaluable as we strengthen our focus on this vital area.”
Guzman’s appointment follows a series of high-impact contributions to the University:
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Mental Health Expansion: She recently secured a $462,000 grant from the New Jersey Office of the Secretary of Higher Education, which funded the creation of an innovative relaxation lounge for neurodivergent students in the Cheng Library.
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Pandemic Response: As co-chair of the University’s COVID-19 Pandemic Response Team, her leadership earned her the 2023 New Jersey Governor’s Team of Excellence Award and the President’s Medallion.
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Wellness Advocacy: She helped establish the University’s annual Wellness Day in 2022, a dedicated day for community health activities with no scheduled classes.
Guzman is not only an administrator but also an educator and practitioner. She currently serves as an adjunct faculty member in WP’s School of Nursing, teaching graduate-level pediatric nursing.
Guzman’s new role will see her collaborating with departments ranging from Human Resources to the Division of Equity and Inclusion, ensuring that wellness is integrated into every facet of the William Paterson experience.
