This is more than a community health event. It's a celebration of YOU!
Sat., October 25, 2025
10:30 AM–3:00 PM
Menopause and midlife health are often left out of public conversations, especially for women of color, LGBTQIA+, and others historically underrepresented in health care. Power of the Pause is about reclaiming this phase of life and making space for celebration, community, and education.
This FREE event is open to all ages. However, the content is primarily geared toward adults and individuals navigating or supporting menopause and midlife health.
The Power of Pause event will be presented in English.
This event is part of the UConn Health Disparities Institute's (HDI) yearlong Menopause Equity Initiative (2025–2026). This event is hosted by HDI in partnership with the Menopause Equity Collective. Click here to meet the champions who are a part of the Menopause Equity Collective.
Power of the Pause is intended to be a brave and welcoming space. We honor all bodies, identities, and experiences. Discrimination or harassment of any kind will not be tolerated.
Agenda at a Glance
10:30–11:30 AM
Registration & Lounge Welcome
Kick off the day with music, mocktails, photo ops, and good vibes while you check in and connect with new friends.
11:30 AM–12:30 PM
Movement Procession & Fireside Chat
Follow the beat into the theatre! Join a lively procession that leads into an inspiring conversation with health experts, advocates, and community voices.
12:30 PM
Light Bites w/ Event's Signature Meno Mocktail
Refuel and refresh with delicious bites and our event's signature menopause-inspired mocktail.
12:30–2:30 PM
Marketplace, Meno Mixer, Self-Care Sessions
Shop the Menopause Marketplace, mingle with guests and healthcare providers at the Meno Mixer, and recharge with sound baths, movement demos, and self-care experiences.
2:30–3:00 PM
Group Movement & Closing
We’ll end on a high note with a joyful group movement session and closing reflections to carry the energy forward.
Brought to you with support from our valued partners:
Title Sponsor
Champion Sponsor
UConn Health Sponsors
In-kind Sponsor
Advocate Sponsor
The Acupuncture Studio
DONNA FAULKNER ACUPUNCTURE LLC
Event Speakers & Special Guests
Dr. Lenora S. Williams
Dr. Williams is a board-certified OB/GYN and a North American Menopause Society (NAMS) Certified Menopause Practitioner. A proud graduate of the University of Cincinnati School of Medicine, she has been in practice for over 35 years. With a deep passion for women’s health, Dr. Williams is dedicated to guiding perimenopausal and menopausal women through their journey with expertise, compassion, and personalized care.
Dr. Nathalie Bonafé
Nathalie Bonafé, PhD, is a biomedical research scientist turned Women's Health Advocate and Life Transition Specialist, aka 'Doula’ (from ancient Greek, a woman who serves another person during a challenging life transition). She is the owner of A GENTLER PARTING LLC, based in New Haven CT. She offers customized, evidence-based education, coaching, and compassionately holistic support, always advocating for personal choices and autonomy, while exploring meaning, courage and joy. Nathalie specializes in life transitions during the second half of life: Peri-menopause, post-menopause, Serious Illness (cancer etc), Grief, and End-of-Life. Her support is non-medical or non-therapeutic.
Dr. Ginger Nash
Dr. Ginger Nash is a licensed naturopathic physician with over 25 years of experience. She graduated in 1998 from what is now the National University of Naturopathic Medicine in Portland, OR. Dr. Nash specializes in treating complex, chronic illnesses, providing transformational healing that addresses both physiological and psychological aspects of health. In addition to her private practice, Dr. Nash has dedicated more than two decades to educating practitioners in natural medicine. She served as clinical faculty at the University of Bridgeport's College of Naturopathic Medicine for six years and now offers specialized training for licensed medical professionals across the U.S. and Canada. Her commitment to education ensures that practitioners are well-equipped to provide holistic care to their complex patients.
Ms. Ava M. Hart
Ava M. Hart, LCSW, IMH-E, is a licensed clinical social worker and infant mental health specialist dedicated to culturally responsive trauma healing. She is the developer of Hart Well, a trauma-informed methodology that integrates neurobiology, systemic awareness, and holistic practices to support individual and collective healing. With extensive experience in mental health, early childhood development, and EMDR, Ava is committed to fostering resilience, equity, and wellbeing across communities.
DJ Q-BOOGIE
Qiana Coachman-Strickland, known as DJ Q-BOOGIE, is the founder of the Female DJ Association and an award-winning DJ and entrepreneur. She has produced original soundscapes for museums and curated live music experiences for global brands, including Amazon and YSL. Through the Female DJ Association, she is dedicated to empowering women in music with mentorship, training, and community.
Sistah Iya Anyangō Yaa Asanewaa
Sistah Iya Anyango is the CEO & Founder of The FLYY Movement! As an award-winning Empowerment, Freedom & Movement Coach, Sistah Iya Anyango is committed to Self-Care for individuals as well as Self-Care for businesses! She is passionate about creating experiences to create change…body, mind, heart, and spirit!
Shariffah Mason
Shariffah Mason, originally from Middletown, is a DJ and Photographer based in Hartford, CT. Her business, Reefs Views , is well known throughout Connecticut, gladly helping people achieve their event (or personal) goals. Filling dance floors and capturing moments is her gift. “Being able to create memories that’ll be shared through families and friends for generations to come, is needed. Having photos to share, or hearing a song that sparks a memory is what life is all about. Being able to set those perfect moments for you, is what keeps Reefs Views going!"
Representative Kai Belton
Representative Kai Belton serves the 100th District in Middletown and is a champion for women’s health and equity. A licensed social worker, she brings her expertise in trauma-informed care to the State Capitol, where she chairs the Black Maternal & Infant Health Caucus and serves as Vice Chair of the Public Health Committee. Belton is recognized for advancing legislation to improve health and the well-being of families across Connecticut. Kai is a proud grandmother of two, navigating the joys of family life while laughing her way through perimenopausal symptoms!
Evelyn Manson-Miller
Evelyn Manson-Miller is a respected beauty industry innovator and entrepreneur with a proven track record in skincare product development, brand strategy, and professional training. With more than 35 years of experience, she has collaborated with leading dermatologists, plastic surgeons, and cosmetic laboratories to bring high-performance formulations from concept to market. Evelyn’s career includes work with renowned companies such as Biocosmetic Research Lab, MANA Products, and DCL Skin Care/Milbar Labs, where she contributed to research, formulation, and product development for skincare lines designed for all skin types. Her expertise bridges the science of dermatology with the artistry of beauty, ensuring every product delivers clinical efficacy and a luxurious user experience. As the founder of XES Beauty Lounge and Manson-Miller Consulting, Evelyn continues to drive innovation through strategic partnerships, brand development, and multicultural marketing initiatives. Her mission is to help brands create inclusive, results-driven skincare that celebrates diversity and authenticity. “I believe beauty is both a science and an experience,” “My goal is to develop products that not only transform the skin but also inspire confidence—because when skincare is inclusive and effective, it empowers everyone who uses it.”