When Wessington Springs High School senior Logan Mohling began planning her senior project, she knew she wanted to focus on something meaningful — something that could have a lasting impact on her classmates.
That idea became a student health fair, designed to introduce high school students to local wellness resources and encourage healthier lifestyles.
“I came up with the idea because health is something I’m really interested in,” Mohling said. “So I thought it would be interesting for our students to be introduced to resources in our community and how they could benefit.”
The health fair featured a variety of booths representing physical, mental, and emotional wellness, all with a local connection.
One of the presenters was Ruth Gough, a clinical master aromatherapist, yoga therapist, functional nutritionist, and PhD. Gough shared a natural approach to wellness through essential oils and holistic practices.
“She takes a natural approach to wellness,” Mohling said. “She’s really good friends with my mom and she helped me through my knee injury.”
Gough emphasized the connection between mind and body and how intentional care can support healing.
Horizon Health Care also participated, with Katlyn Rostyne, CNP, visiting with students about healthcare careers and the Build Dakota Scholarship, which helps support students pursuing degrees in high-demand fields like healthcare.
Avera Physical Therapy was represented by Jennifer M. Jensen, DPT, who used a spine display to teach students about posture, spinal health, and the importance of stretching.
Another Avera booth focused on mental health, with Avera Behavioral Health staff discussing caffeine consumption, stress management, and strategies for maintaining emotional well-being.
The fair also included a creative component through the Springs Council of the Arts (SACOTA), which offered a hands-on craft activity for students.
“Doing a creative outlet is meditative,” Mohling said, noting how creativity plays a role in overall mental health.
Dental health was addressed by Horizon Health Care’s dental clinic, where Liza Kolousek, dental hygienist, spoke with students about the effects of sugar and beverages on teeth, along with the pros and cons of whitening strips.
Mohling said her goal was not to overwhelm students, but to spark awareness.
“With a little bit of information, maybe they could go on to live a healthier life,” she said. “Life is better when you’re healthy.”
While the event was successful, Mohling said organizing it pushed her outside her comfort zone.
“A challenge for me was reaching out to everybody and trying to find people that it could work for,” she said. “I had about 15 different people I contacted, but only six were able to get back to me. I barely like talking to people that I don’t know.”
Despite the challenges, Mohling said the project was rewarding and pushed her outside her comfort zone, and she is grateful for the chance to plant the seed for a healthier future among her peers.