Expert to speak at UF about behavioral health, social justices on campuses

March 31, 2006

GAINESVILLE, Fla. — The College of Health and Human Performance has invited Alan Berkowitz, a well-known independent consultant of health and social justice issues, to speak about promoting behavioral health and social justice on college campuses.

The college’s Stanley Lecture Series will be held at 3 p.m. April 6 in the Reitz Student Union Auditorium. Berkowitz’s lecture is titled “Changing Campus Culture: Promoting Behavioral Health and Social Justice.” Following the lecture, a reception will include free food and drinks.

In addition to the lecture, Berkowitz will hold a workshop at 9 a.m. April 7 in Room 284 of the Reitz Student Union. The workshop is titled “Working with Men to Prevent Sexual Assault.” Both events are free and open to the public.

Berkowitz, who has more than 20 years of experience in higher education, is known for his work designing programs for universities, public health agencies and communities to address health and social justice issues. With Wesley Perkins, he developed the Social Norms Theory which is now the dominant framework used in higher education for understanding undergraduate drinking behavior and for designing interventions to reduce alcohol misuse. He is also the editor and founder of The Report on Social Norms. Berkowitz received a doctorate in psychology from Cornell University and is a New York State licensed psychologist.

The Stanley Lecture Series has been presented annually by the College since 1986. It was established as a memorial to Dennis Keith “Dutch” Stanley, in recognition of his many contributions to the professions of physical education, health education and recreation.
Stanley had a lifelong interest in intercollegiate athletics and the athlete in the university environment.