Professional Summary
Professional Overview
Laura Fariss is the Director of Student Health Services at Santa Barbara City College, where she has served in this role since 2011. With extensive experience in student health and wellness, she oversees all aspects of the college's on-campus healthcare services and programs.
Experience Summary
Current Role
As the Director of Student Health Services, Laura is responsible for managing a team of healthcare professionals, including nurses, counselors, and administrative staff. She develops and implements evidence-based policies and procedures to ensure that students have access to comprehensive and high-quality medical, mental health, and health education services. Under her leadership, the student health center has expanded its offerings and seen a significant increase in patient utilization, further improving the overall well-being of the student population.
Career Progression
Prior to her current role, Laura served as the Assistant Director of Student Health Services at a large public university, where she gained valuable experience in program management, budget oversight, and staff supervision. She also worked as a registered nurse in a hospital setting, providing direct patient care and contributing to the development of new initiatives aimed at enhancing the patient experience.
Academic Background
Laura holds a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) degree from the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA), with a specialization in Community Health Nursing. She also earned a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) from the University of Southern California (USC), where she graduated cum laude.
Areas of Expertise
- Student health and wellness program management
- Healthcare policy and procedure development
- Team leadership and staff supervision
- Budget planning and resource allocation
- Community health and outreach initiatives
- Evidence-based practice and data-driven decision making
Professional Impact
Under Laura's leadership, the Student Health Services at Santa Barbara City College has become a model for student-centric healthcare delivery. She has spearheaded the implementation of innovative telehealth services, expanded the mental health counseling offerings, and collaborated with campus partners to deliver comprehensive health education programs. Laura's commitment to improving student well-being has been recognized through several awards and accolades, including the Outstanding Student Health Services Director award from the American College Health Association (ACHA).
Conclusion
With her extensive background in student health and her proven track record of success, Laura Fariss is a respected leader in the field of campus healthcare. She is dedicated to enhancing the overall well-being of the student community and continues to drive strategic initiatives that elevate the quality and accessibility of the services provided by the Student Health Services at Santa Barbara City College.
