NC West Virginia News

West Virginia University students benefit from WELLWVU's educational programs and outreach initiatives, which focus on promoting wellness and supporting student health. WELLWVU Director Courtney Weaver emphasizes the organization's mission: “Rather than spending our time telling students what they shouldn’t do, we provide them with knowledge and tools to help them make the healthiest choices for themselves that align with their own personal values.”

During the 2023-24 academic year, WELLWVU engaged over 6,000 students through more than 160 outreach events. According to Weaver, research indicates that college students need two main supports for success: engaging in valuable activities weekly and knowing that university staff support them. “We always have their backs,” she said.

WELLWVU's efforts include breaking down stigmas and providing a safe space for accessing resources. The organization offers education on alcohol and drugs, emotional wellness, mental health resources, and sexual health education. Workshops cover topics like stress management, drink sizing, and communication with professors.

Kelly Rech, a graduate assistant involved in alcohol and drug education programs at WELLWVU, highlights the importance of these initiatives. “I know this subject is so important to the students on this campus,” Rech said. She engages with students through various programs such as the 21st Birthday Program and Narcan training.

The team also distributes free fentanyl testing strip kits. Weaver stated: “As soon as those test strips became legal, we were on it.” Other offerings include Bartender School and AlcoholEDU training modules available to campus groups free of charge.

Madison Ligan serves as an emotional and mental wellness graduate assistant focusing on resilience skills for students. Her work includes presentations on coping strategies ahead of final exams during events like ChillFEST.

Kylie Pell leads sexual health education projects through initiatives like Condom Caravan. Pell aims to create comfortable discussions around sexual health topics among young people.

Overall, WELLWVU strives to normalize help-seeking behavior while fostering open communication within a supportive community environment for WVU students.

“We pride ourselves on providing student access to medically accurate information,” Weaver said about their educational resources available both in-person and online.