Dana M. Wardlaw, Senior Instructional Designer, applies extensive research, writing, editing, and instructional design experience to public health initiatives at EDC. Examples include national training and technical assistance centers to promote behavioral health in communities, state-level initiatives to advance effective universal substance misuse prevention practices and multi-tiered systems of support in schools, and a city-wide initiative to support trauma-informed HIV care.

Adept at synthesizing information from multiple sources and translating complex concepts into clear and engaging content, Dana spearheads the development of diverse print and training resources. Working closely with team members and other interest holders, she drives each step of the development process—including defining goals and objectives, critically reviewing relevant research, outlining and curating essential content, writing clear narrative, crafting meaningful activities, and incorporating feedback from partners.

Specializing in eLearning, Dana has developed a wide range of interactive online resources that have earned consistently positive evaluation results, endorsements from prominent credentialing organizations, and awards for content and design excellence. Topics include understanding and addressing behavioral health disparities, strategic planning to prevent substance misuse and problem gambling, promoting positive coping strategies among youth, recognizing and responding to elder mistreatment, and the principles and practices of trauma-informed care.

Dana holds an MA in Community and Prevention Research from the University of Illinois at Chicago and a BS in Human Development and Family Studies from Cornell University.