Lawrence University’s commitment to mental and physical wellness was recognized with a 2016 Healthy Campus Award. Lawrence was one of only six institutions nationally honored by Washington, D.C.-based nonprofit organization, Active Minds.
The award honors U.S. colleges and universities that demonstrate excellence in prioritizing and promoting the overall well-being of their students. According to Active Minds, students enrolled at institutions focused on campus health often find that the programs and services offered there are life changing.
“Lawrence has been working hard to investigate and understand wellness behaviors on campus for the last several years,” said President Mark Burstein. “Creating a safe campus culture, where students look out for each other and are empowered to make healthy choices, ensures that our students can be fully present in their educational pursuits.”
Launched in 2015, the Healthy Campus Award involves an extensive application process, multiple endorsements, and interviews with a panel of prominent researchers and health and higher education experts assessing applicants across eight criteria.
“Lawrence University stands out because it invests in students’ physical and mental health on a comprehensive scale and for the long term,” said Alison Malmon, executive director and founder of Active Minds. “Lawrence is a model of what’s possible when a college prioritizes a campus culture of health, safety, and well-being.”
Erin Buenzli, Lawrence’s wellness and recreation director, called the national award “an exciting honor.”
“It’s very gratifying to be recognized nationally for our efforts to improve the overall well-being of our campus community,” said Buenzli. “This recognition affirms the dedication of many people at Lawrence who have worked diligently in making Lawrence a community that puts a high value on the importance of a holistic approach to wellness.”
The award’s review panel cited “best practices”: campus-wide collaboration, integrated and centralized services, healthy balance statements, and bystander training.