The ETHS School-Based Health Center, located in H101, is an integral part of students’ lives, providing services that range from sports physicals to STD/STI testing. In contrast to the Nurse’s Office, the Health Center is operated and staffed by Endeavor Health.
Julianne Russell, APN-CNP (Advanced Practice Nurse and Certified Practitioner), has served the Health Center as a founding provider and full-time supporter since its start 30 years ago. Russell recently received the DAISY Lifetime Achievement Award, an honor highlighting nurses with decades of experience who have devoted their careers to compassionate care.
“Her leadership helped expand services to children for school physicals and vaccinations, removing barriers to care for vulnerable families,” said Endeavor Health. “Julie’s lasting impact continues to strengthen school-based health across Evanston and throughout Illinois.”
As Russell stepped away from her role this year, Deborah Sontag, APRN (Advanced Practice Registered Nurse), joined the Health Center clinic as a nurse practitioner. She brings a unique perspective to the job.
“At my last position, almost every student had health insurance, and it was easy for those who didn’t have insurance to get it,” said Sontag. “But Evanston often makes it hard for those who don’t have insurance, so the clinic is very helpful to newly-arrived students.”
As a parent, Sontag recognizes the essential role that the Health Center plays for Evanston families. This is why she is focused on outreach for the clinic, aiming to widen the net of families it supports.
“I want to reach out as much as possible. We have the bandwidth to see more students and provide much more support to parents and families,” said Sontag.
The Health Center will speak with gym and wellness classes and set up tables at school events. Student Health Center ambassadors will also continue to connect with the community, spreading awareness for the unique resources available to students.
“As ambassadors, we are happy to spread the word about the many resources the Health Center provides to students,” said junior Lara Friedman, Health Center student ambassador president.
One such resource is an Endeavor Health pediatric dietitian, who will be joining the clinic most likely in late April and further expanding student access to mental and physical health care. Sontag highlighted the importance of these services for both student-athletes and non-athletes.
“We’ve found that many students have a complicated relationship with food,” said Sontag.
The dietitian will, in part, provide tailored nutrition approaches for students, something Sontag is optimistic will benefit the community.
“It is super valuable to have this many health care professionals within the walls of ETHS,” said Friedman. “The stigma surrounding the Health Center can push students away, but it’s crucial they know how great of a place it is.”
Both Friedman and Sontag emphasize the importance of student outreach. Without it, Sontag said the Health Center would not serve as many students as it currently does, with over 800 last year and more than 570 so far this year.
