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Meet Keely Rees

Keely is a Mastered Certified Health Education Specialist (MCHES).  Her PhD is from the University of New Mexico in health education and has a Masters degree in Exercise Physiology.  Keely has been a professor for over 20 years and is trained at the advanced level with motivational interviewing.  She is a standout speaker and facilitator, ready to help you and your organization.  

Leading with Compassion

Keely's entire career has focused on the well-being of people and organizations.  As a teacher, personal coach, workshop facilitator, mother, and wife, Keely has an extensive background in personal and organizational health.  She has been a professor of health education for over 20 years. Keely has led study abroad programs with students and colleagues in Ireland, Spain, Costa Rica.  Her research and work in the health field provide the foundation for advocacy, policy, and women's health in a variety of public health settings. She loves working with educators, health professionals, teens, and young adults, Her work is grounded in compassion and enthusiasm for individuals and communities.  Keely recognizes how we are all a work in progress and the need for connection and empathy is evident in our homes and workplaces. 

Passion for Mentorship and Teaching

Keely has been a leader in the field of health for over 20 years.  She is a renowned mentor, speaker, researcher, and facilitator with her students, colleagues, and community organizations.  

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Research and teaching focus:

  • Working with community schools for a variety of health needs of staff and students

  • Mindfulness and meditation

  • Parenting digital natives

  • Women's health

  • Tobacco use during pregnancy,

  • Sexuality education 

  • Advocacy for young children, teens, and parents

  • Contemplative practices for health and helping professionals

  • Understanding compassion fatigue and how the body responds

Award-Winning Educator and Leader

Keely's experiences led her from South Dakota to New Mexico, southern Illinois, and to Wisconsin. The geographic diversity keeps her engaged in a variety of health needs and issues.

 

Awards and recognition:

  • 2023 Eagle Teaching Excellence Award Winner 

  • 2019 Champion in Women's Health Award from the Wisconsin Women's Health Foundation 

  • 2018 Outstanding Faculty Sponsor for National Eta Sigma Gamma 

  • 2016 Karen Denard Goldman Award for the Society of Public Health Education 

  • 2011 YWCA Tribute to Outstanding Women (Health Category)

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