Got Health?
Liberty University’s Department of Student Health and Wellness is preparing for Healthy Campus Week, which will begin Sept. 24, in an attempt to help students become their
best selves.
Along with this, the sixth annual Health Expo will be held Sept. 25. from 12 p.m. to 3 p.m. on theAcademic Lawn.
Keith Anderson, executive director of Student Health and Wellness, described the week-long event as being a time to promote the physical health of Liberty students.
“During this week, we want to encourage students to make it more of a priority to seek out new opportunities to be physically healthy,” Anderson said. “We want them to challenge themselves and hopefully find others to help keep them accountable.”
However, Anderson said the Student Health Expo will be the “big day” that will serve as the culminating piece of the week. This year, the theme for the expo is “Aloha Wellness.”
Meant to encapsulate the fun culture of Hawaii, the expo will be a celebration of health, complete with food, games and a DJ. Throughout the day, giveaways like T-shirts and longboards will be given away.
“Aloha, wellness,” Anderson said. “Whether you are coming or going,
think well.”
With over 31 local vendors coming out in support of the event, students will also be able to visit each of their tables to learn more about all nine dimensions of wellness, which include physical, spiritual, mental, emotional and financial wellness.
One of these vendors, the Central Virginia Family Practitioners, will be on site to provide students with general health information, handouts and tips to avoid catching illnesses, such as the flu.
“It is very important to be aware of your surroundings and to know the right steps to take in order to prevent (sickness),” Lauren Bennett, director of operations at CVFP, said. “The more well-informed and equipped, with better education on how to take care of yourself, the better off you’ll be.”
In partnership with CVFP, Liberty University’s School of Nursing will also be on the lawn administering free flu shots for students.
“Flu season typically goes from September to March,” Anderson said. “The sooner we get more people vaccinated, the better prepared our community will be to ward off the flu.”
Additionally, Anderson said they will soon be launching a new health campaign with the motto, “Choose well. Be well. Do well.” This will focus on helping students to choose a better nutritional diet, to be well regarding emotional and spiritual health, and to do well by being active and engaged in healthy
activities.
“Taking care of our bodies as a temple gives us the opportunity to be well and to be more easily used by God,” Anderson said. “By promoting wellness, we can also help students to create healthier habits in order for them to be able to function better academically.”
For more information, students can visit www.liberty.edu/healthand wellness.