Nurturing Wellness

with a Transformative Gift

Trustee Heather J. Rohan '77, MBA '89By Sissi Garland

At a time when students face mounting pressures-from academics to social media stress-Barry University’s Center for Counseling and Psychological Services has become a vital lifeline. Thanks to a $100,000 gift from Board of Trustees Chairperson Heather J. Rohan '77, MBA '89, the center is now expanding its ability to support student well-being.

Rohan’s gift established the Rohan Family Mental Health Wellness Fund, which enhances services such as open screenings, staffing, and wellness workshops. “It is frightening to go to college…There’s a lot of pressure. Students are dealing with personal issues, social media, and financial strains,” she explains. Her goal is to equip students with the tools they need to thrive mentally, emotionally, and academically.

Her connection to Barry runs deep. Coming from a modest family in Indiana, she was able to attend Barry thanks to a scholarship package. “From my first visit, I felt a sense of warmth and belonging,” she recalls. That early generosity helped launch her career in healthcare leadership, inspiring her to give back to the university that shaped her life.

Heather J. Rohan

Her impact extends beyond mental health. Rohan also established the Heather J. Milne Rohan Nursing Endowed Scholarship, which has already supported students such as Attley Appleton DNP' 24 and Heather Maldonado DNP' 25. Attley graduated in ’04; Appleton, a nurse anesthesia alumnus and expectant father says… “This scholarship was definitely needed…I want to finish strong.” Maldonado, balancing studies with caring for her father and young son, shared, “This award has helped me with the expenses so I can continue my program.

With over 30 years of healthcare leadership experience, including serving as President of HCA Healthcare’s TriStar Division, Rohan has dedicated her career to advancing patient care. Today, she continues that mission through board service with organizations like NAMI Tennessee, as well as her leadership role at Barry.

Despite her accomplishments, Rohan remains humble. “Small things can make a big difference,” she says—a philosophy that guides her philanthropy. At Barry, those “small things” translate into life-changing support: counseling, coping skills, and safe spaces that help students stay enrolled and succeed.

In a post-pandemic world where mental health is finally part of the open conversation, Rohan’s gift comes at a critical time. It is a testament to her belief in community, connection, and the power of giving back to help future generations flourish.

Nurturing Wellness with a Transformative Gift to Barry's Counseling Center

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