With the start of a new semester comes a new batch of students — joined by even more returning ones — with questions on how to make the best health and lifestyle decisions.

Formally opening its doors next week, the University’s new Student Wellness Center is set up to help. 

The center will offer programs and individual consultations to help students with a variety of wellness issues. Nutrition and fitness are part of the agenda, as are alcohol and drug awareness, eating disorders, tobacco use, mental health, sexual responsibility, and men’s and women’s health.

Previously called Health Education and a component of the Student Health Center, the new center is now a separate department.  The center is expanding its programs and staff to accommodate growing awareness among students, according to Amanda Smith, assistant director of student wellness.

“We have incredible students who take ownership of their health and wellness and recognize that health is a common thread we all share.”

Amanda Smith, assistant director of student wellness

“The significant increase in student interest and participation in the Health Education Program over the last couple of years, and the opportunity to design an accommodating physical space in the new Student Services Building, made us believe the time was right for the expansion,” Smith said.

A part of Student Affairs, staff at the center will partner with other departments on events, teach some RHET 1101 classes and assist students with a variety of health needs.

 “We have incredible students who take ownership of their health and wellness and recognize that health is a common thread we all share,” Smith said.

The Student Wellness Center opens at 8:30 a.m. on Monday, Sept. 27, in its new space on the fourth floor of the Student Services Building, Suite 4.500.