EMU Today

A new initiative at Eastern Michigan University is transforming how health education reaches Southeast Michigan communities—by putting youth at the forefront. Way Forward@EMU, housed within Engage@EMU, is launching a Youth Health Educator Corps, training high school students to educate their peers, families, and community members on traumatic brain injury (TBI) awareness and prevention.

The program operates as a hub-and-spoke model for community-based healthcare transformation. Youth educators from Ypsilanti, Wayne/Westland, and Romulus will promote health literacy and engage with school districts, faith communities, and local leaders. While the initial focus is on TBI education, the program has the potential to expand into other critical health topics.

Leadership & Collaboration

Way Forward@EMU is led by newly appointed Director Sondrea Singleton, an experienced educator with a strong background in literacy development and youth advocacy. Originally from Chicago and now based in Detroit, Sondrea holds a master’s degree in education policy from Loyola University and has worked extensively in tutoring, curriculum design, and community engagement. She is already forging connections with key partners to advance the program’s mission.

Joining her is Liz Garaba, program associate, who brings expertise in student success coaching, career and college readiness, and community programming. Liz has worked with EMU Bright Futures and the Parkridge Community Center, making her a valuable asset in connecting with local youth.

The program is a collaborative effort, bringing together internal EMU partners—including the College of Health and Human Services, the Robert Thomson Center for the Advancement of Neurobehavioral Health, and EMU Bright Futures—alongside external partner The Corner Health Center.

The Road Ahead

By equipping young people with the knowledge and skills to serve as health educators, Way Forward@EMU is fostering a new generation of community leaders. The program not only builds youth engagement but also strengthens health literacy across Southeast Michigan.