Biography
Jay Passa has twenty-eight years of experience working in college health education and health promotion in higher education. He currently serves as the Health Education Coordinator for the Student Center for Health and Counseling at Bemidji State University and Northwest Technical College. Jay served as the Interim Title IX Coordinator for Bemidji State University and Northwest Technical College during the 2023/24 academic term and has attending several Minnesota State Title IX trainings.
Jay has experience working in college health education as a Substance Abuse Prevention Specialist and is certified as an Adult Mental Health First Aid USA Instructor Trainer. He holds additional certifications in Adult Mental Health First Aid, MN Sexual Assault Advocate, and in Rule 25 Substance Use Assessment. Jay received a Bachelor of Science Degree in Community Health Education from Bemidji State University.
As the Health Education Coordinator, this position oversees the planning, implementation and evaluation of evidence-based health promotion programs and strategies. In the position, Jay collaborates with key campus and community stakeholders to develop a comprehensive approach to harm reduction, policy development and student health and wellness initiatives. He coordinates the Sexual Violence Prevention Program for Bemidji State University and Northwest Technical College and serves on the Title IX Committee. These efforts support institutional compliance with federal mandates including the Violence Against Women Act, Campus SaVE Act, Clery Act, Title IX and Drug Free Schools and Community Act.
Jay serves on the Board of Directors for Face It Together Bemidji, a community substance abuse treatment service organization. He supervises community health interns and field practicum students and is the advisor for a peer education student organization. Jay serves as the Chair of the Employee Wellness Committee. He regularly guest speaks in academic classes and presents health and wellness topics to parents of incoming freshman at new student orientation events.