Weber State University students are working to promote sun safety across campus and throughout the community to combat high melanoma rates in Utah. The group, known as UV Crew, is currently working toward becoming an official university club to expand funding and partnership opportunities.
Led by Assistant Professor Gennie Parkman, the UV Crew consists of 16 active members focused on raising awareness for sun-safe practices like wearing sunscreen and UV-protective clothing. Parkman noted that Utah has the highest rate of melanoma in the nation, which is driven by factors including high UV exposure and high elevation.
During a recent Sun-Safety Day at Lagoon, the group distributed over 1,500 sunscreen samples donated by local dermatologists, along with water bottles and sunglasses. Visitors to the booth also received bracelets made from over 60,000 UV-sensitive beads that change color when exposed to sunlight.
The group's outreach efforts were supported by the Weber State Student Senate and a Sustainability Teaching Application Research (STAR) grant. These funds allowed the team to purchase supplies such as face paint and beads to expand their community engagement.
As the group prepares to become an official Weber State club, members aim to build relationships within the community while gaining experience in science communication and teamwork. The initiative provides students with hands-on outreach opportunities intended to prepare them for careers in health-related or science fields.
The UV Crew seeks to empower individuals to make health-protecting choices through sun-safety education. Interested individuals can follow the group on Instagram for updates and events.
