Smoking and tobacco use disproportionately affect the LGBTQIA+ population, with higher rates of smoking compared to the general population due to targeted marketing and social stressors. This disparity has significant long-term health consequences for LGBTQIA+ individuals, contributing to higher risks of cancer, heart disease, and respiratory issues. Through this initiative, I am to promote a smoke-free campus and provide resources to help reduce smoking rates, ultimately improving the health and well-being of LGBTQIA+ students and staff.

The idea that negative health outcomes can be so intertwined with health behaviors is a powerful concept that must be understood by all students, faculty, staff, and guests of Stockton University. By supporting and taking part in this initiative, the elimination of smoking and tobacco related activities in the Stockton community is that much more within reach.

My favourite event so far, and one I look forward to every year is the Lollanobooza, where people get to dress up and have a whole lot of fun!

Spending a weekend in DC was definitely my favorite memory. I enjoyed getting to know student leaders from other states and exchanging ideas about achieving our common goal. Additionally building relationships with my coworkers and learning more about their relationship with this issue was also very eye opening.

Attending the 2024 Truth Initiative Convening in Washington, DC, and swimming in the pool at our hotel has been my favorite memory so far. This experience gave me the opportunity to get to know the other Smoke-Free Ambassadors a bit better outside of work and bond as a team.

I grew up in a household where my father used cigarettes daily. Seeing the impact that has had on his health inspired me to be a part of this. My dad decided to quit smoking after seeing commercials about the dangers that second hand smoke could possibly have on my brother and I. After noticing how important exposure is to issues like this I was inspired to share what I know about the dangers of tobacco and nicotine with my peers on campus.

Meeting the other Student Leaders will always be a fond memory of mine. Going from strangers one moment to co-workers and collaborators the next was as seamless as it was exciting. I hope to be a valuable member of this team and make a true impact on Stockton University alongside these wonderful individuals.

Though smoking is socially considered as a “less severe” type of addiction, its normalization among users leads those to overlook the complications tied with it. As a Smoke-Free Ambassador, it is a passion of mine to abolish these wrongful normalizations, as well as to provide adequate resources and genuine support for those that need it.