(From Left) Montanna Barrette, Jody Morrissette and Mrigank “Miggie” Kothyari stand inside the Health Promotions office, located inside the Colonel J.J. Parr Sports Centre at CFB Cold Lake – Photo by Mike Marshall / The Courier News
The 4 Wing Personnel Support Programs (PSP) Health Promotions team has a new leader with a wealth of experience and a passion for well-being. Jody Morrissette, the new Health Promotions Manager, brings a unique perspective shaped by her military service, work in mental health and addictions, and her commitment to fostering a balanced approach to health and wellness.
Morrissette began her career as a Dietitian and Food Service Officer in the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF). Her early experiences highlighted the importance of nutrition not just for physical health but also as a vital element in building community and morale.
“Food was a significant contribution to socializing and overall morale of the military community,” Morrissette said. “Aside from the physical benefits of proper nutrition, I saw how it brought people together.”
Her focus expanded during her time in workplace investigations, where she worked to address workplace culture and reduce stress. “It was during this phase of my career that I realized how broad health and wellness truly is,” she explained. “It encompasses all components of our work, home life, and relationships with friends and family.”
After leaving the military, Morrissette pursued her interest in understanding human behaviour through work in the mental health and addictions sector. This deepened her appreciation for the many factors that influence health and wellness, a perspective she now brings to CFB Cold Lake
For Morrissette, health promotion is not about perfection but about meeting individuals where they are. “Health Promotion is realizing that it is not a pass/fail exercise,” she said. “Each person can have their own interpretation of health, healthy living, and healthy habits. At one time, health was measured through diet and exercise. Now we know that it encompasses all our behaviour and understanding of what drives us daily.”
Her advice to the community is clear and encouraging: “Health and wellness does not mean depriving yourself of enjoyment. It’s about having a healthy relationship with food, exercise, family, and most importantly, ourselves.”
While Morrissette is still familiarizing herself with the current initiatives at CFB Cold Lake, she’s eager to continue the momentum of existing programs and explore unmet needs. “I’m looking forward to seeing what’s in place and identifying new opportunities to support our community,” she shared.
Supporting the Mission
Morrissette is joined by two new team members who are also passionate about contributing to the health and wellness of the 4 Wing community.
Mrigank “Miggie” Kothyari, the new Health Promotion Specialist, brings strong academic credentials and professional experience to the team. With a Master of Public Health in Health Policy and Management from the University of Georgia and work experience in non-profit and corporate health sectors, Kothyari is excited to make a positive impact. “I aim to support the well-being of CAF members, their families, and veterans,” he said.
Montanna Barrette, who previously taught Zumba with PSP, steps into the role of Administrative Assistant. A devoted fitness enthusiast and mother, she balances her career with family life. “I love to exercise and spend quality time with my baby girl, our two dogs, and my family,” she said.
Stop by the Health Promotions office to meet the new team and see how they can support your wellness journey!
