Purdue University Health and Human Sciences Extension

⛈️ Severe weather is possible across parts of Indiana today, including the potential for strong storms and tornadoes. While we hope for the best, taking a few moments now to prepare can help keep you and your loved ones safe.

Make sure you know where to seek shelter, have multiple ways to receive weather alerts, and review your emergency plans with family members. Being prepared before severe weather arrives can make all the difference.

Numerous resources are available from Indiana PREPared, the US National Weather Service Indianapolis Indiana, the American Red Cross, and other trusted organizations to help individuals and families prepare for severe spring and summer weather. Check out the resource below to learn more and stay informed.

Stay weather aware and stay safe. 🛡️💛🖤

https://www.purdue.edu/engineering/ABE/INPREPared/spring-summer-weather-resources/?utm_id=97757_v0_s00_e0_tv2_a1demo0jmu72pn&fbclid=IwY2xjawSftzxleHRuA2FlbQIxMQBzcnRjBmFwcF9pZBAyMjIwMzkxNzg4MjAwODkyAAEe25FxpPKGa8AcdxBjrvA9JY4je0lSTVO6vIesfpxbLrJx6S4xKH1FNeo9tj4_aem_SYGvYBhznmqqhuscPcCMGw

Spring & Summer Severe Weather Resources Spring has sprung! While we all appreciate and enjoy spring weather, please remember that as we move into late spring and summer, we are entering one of the most dangerous times for severe weather. Each year, severe weather outbreaks injure and kill many Americans. Floods, tornadoes, wind, and li

Rural communities are often known for having strengths of close connections and self-sufficiency, which can foster resilience. However, rural communities can also experience unique challenges when health issues arise, including issues like mental health and substance use.

Learn about these unique challenges and strengths for rural communities experiencing substance use concerns through Purdue Extension’s free Substance Use Education Video series, available at: https://extension.purdue.edu/hhs/health/programs/substance-use-education-series.html -education-series.

Congratulations Dr. Libby Richards! 🎉🚂

🎉 Congratulations to Libby Richards on her appointment as head of the Purdue University School of Nursing! 💛🖤

After serving as interim head since August 2025, Libby will officially assume the role on July 1, 2026.

A tenured professor, accomplished researcher and award-winning educator, Libby has been a driving force behind many initiatives that advance Purdue Nursing’s mission. Her leadership has helped strengthen faculty development, support student success, expand research and outreach efforts, and guide planning for the new Nursing and Pharmacy Education Building.

We are excited for the future of Purdue Nursing under Libby’s leadership and look forward to the continued growth, innovation and excellence ahead.

Please join us in congratulating Libby on this well-deserved appointment!

What an incredible evening at the first Community Childcare Gala! 🎉 This special event celebrated the dedication, professionalism, and impact of childcare providers across our seven-county region while bringing together families, community partners, and local businesses. From provider recognition awards to children's artwork displays and regional collaborations, the evening reflected the strength and spirit of our community. We are grateful to everyone who helped make this inaugural event so memorable!

Purdue Extension Community Childcare

Parents, looking for ideas to engage with your kids this summer? Let’s go outside! 🌤️ Dig into soil! 🌱 Scoop, sprinkle and explore soil layers to discover what lives underground. 🪣🪱 Children use their senses to compare textures, colors, and materials while learning how soil supports life. 🌎🌿

𝗕𝗼𝗼𝗸 𝘀𝘂𝗴𝗴𝗲𝘀𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻 — 𝘿𝙞𝙧𝙩: 𝙏𝙝𝙚 𝙎𝙘𝙤𝙤𝙥 𝙤𝙣 𝙎𝙤𝙞𝙡 by Natalie Rosinsky helps children understand why soil matters. Find more at go.unl.edu/lgo_soil

What if sleep could reveal important clues about diabetes risk? 💡 A new study from Center on Aging and the Life Course at Purdue Faculty Associates Priscilla Ding, Laura Murray-Kolb, and Zach Hass examines the connection between sleep-related leg movements and diabetes risk, offering valuable insights at the intersection of sleep, health, and aging.

Purdue University College of Health and Human Sciences

CALC Faculty Associates Priscilla Ding, Laura Murray-Kolb, and Zach Hass contributed to a new interdisciplinary study examining the connection between diabetes risk and sleep-related leg movements. Their research highlights how sleep patterns may help identify diabetes risk earlier and advances understanding at the intersection of sleep, health, and aging.

To learn more, see the link:
https://www.purdue.edu/hhs/news/2026/04/purdue-researchers-find-connection-between-diabetes-risk-and-sleep-related-leg-movements-in-interdisciplinary-study/?utm_source=sfmcPT&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=260420PurdueToday&utm_term=Purdue+researchers+find+connection+between+diabetes+risk+and+sleep-related+leg+movements+in+interdisciplinary+study&utm_id=1277662

Warmer, sunnier weather is here! Whether you're walking, gardening, or enjoying a weekend event, don’t forget to protect your skin. ☀️

Keep these simple tips in mind to stay safe in the sun:

🧴 Apply sunscreen (SPF 30 or higher) and reapply every 2 hours
🕶 Wear sunglasses and a wide-brimmed hat
🌳 Take breaks in the shade, especially during peak sun hours
💧 Stay hydrated

A little preparation goes a long way in helping you stay healthy while enjoying the outdoors!

When we focus on the whole person—not just a diagnosis—we help create environments that truly support resilience and well-being. 🌱

This Mental Health Awareness Month, take a moment to explore programs from the Purdue Extension Farm Stress Team, designed to support the mental health and well-being of the farming community. 🚜

Learn more here: https://extension.purdue.edu/farm_stress/our-programs.html

Our Programs Purdue Farm Stress programs