When Julia Dharma Long (née Dutkiewicz, BBA’90) graduated from UNB, she left campus with more than a degree. She brought with her a vision to build. Exactly what, was unclear at the time.

It wasn’t until her sons became First Responders that all her education, additional training, and diverse experiences came together to define her mission: nervous system regulation for trauma-exposed professions.

Armed with the strategic thinking, operational insight, and entrepreneurial spirit honed during her time at UNB, Julia set out to build something that didn’t yet exist: a “digital sanctuary” for those who serve on the front lines of trauma.

That mission became FRYCANADA.com, a pioneering platform designed to support First Responders and trauma-exposed professionals build resilience, regulate their nervous systems, and reclaim their physical and mental well-being.

But FRY Canada is more than a website. It’s a toolbox for transformation and building resilience. Built with the understanding that trauma exposure is “not just a moment but a cumulative experience,” FRY Canada delivers its tools through:

The FRY APP, with over 700 instructional and follow-along videos on tools to meet/prevent common First Responder mind-body injuries via five main pillars: breath work, mindful movement, meditations, positive affirmations, and relaxation. Available 24/7, anywhere, anytime, immediately when needed by First Responders. Classes in the study-backed FRY method are streamed regularly through the app.

Live workshops and webinars led by Julia and other experts in the FRY method, including trauma-informed care and mental fitness.

The FRY APP is “boldly embracing the future: infusing cutting-edge artificial intelligence and immersive virtual reality to revolutionize digital health as its visionary journey unfolds.” Each tool is designed to be accessible, evidence-informed, and immediately applicable, meeting professionals where they are, whether in the firehouse, the ER, or between shifts.

But Julia’s impact is not limited to digital wellness. She is a sought-after speaker on topics that are reshaping the conversation about mental health in “high-stakes” professions. Her signature talks on mindset, mindfulness, strategic visualization, and positive affirmation have reached audiences across North America. Her book, Duty to Self, is a powerful follow-up to her first, F.R.Y. First Responders Yoga. It is a reflective, quick handbook that offers practical tools for nervous system regulation, empowering readers to prioritize their own healing without guilt or hesitation. It’s a call to action for those who’ve spent their careers in service of others, to finally serve themselves.

In 2025, she founded F.R.Y. Community Outreach, the not-for-profit arm of her work, and launched Canada’s inaugural public First Responders’ Day event. Although May 1 is informally recognized as First Responders Day across Canada and formally recognized in Ontario, no major public celebration had occurred until she created one. The event marked a turning point in national awareness and demonstrated the power of community gratitude.

Julia credits her time at UNB for giving her the foundation to build a mission-driven enterprise. FRY Canada’s and the new FRY-USA.com’s mission statement: give back to those who serve, guides the not-for-profit arm.

Her journey is a testament to what happens when business acumen meets deep purpose, and when a UNB grad “dares to build something the world truly needs.”