California State University, Long Beach
IN-24: Innovation A

CSULB has taken innovative steps to recognize wellness as a key component of student success and an essential ingredient to creating a healthy, sustainable campus environment. Some examples of innovative programs and practices that have been implemented include: - Campus-Wide Commitment to At-Risk Students, through which CSULB developed a Student Emergency Intervention and Wellness program to identify and immediately serve students in times of crisis. - Outreach to Special Populations, including an eight-week program for students traumatized by sexual assault or domestic violence. The program offers yoga, meditation and discussions to help students rebuild their connection to their bodies and develop a sense of self-trust and resilience. CSULB also allows emotional support animals to live in residence halls with students who need them and a financial health course is available for students who are less likely to have had access to such information. - Student Addiction Recovery Program, where participating students seeking recovery from addiction receive support in their decisions, having access to academic and health advisors to improve their academic and health skills. - Exercise as Medicine, where the university assesses exercise as a routine vital sign during visits to the health center by students, faculty, and staff. Clinicians provide individual counseling regarding the importance of exercise as it relates to overall health. CSULB's leadership in these areas earned the university the Active Minds Healthy Campus Award in 2016. This award recognizes U.S. colleges and universities that demonstrate excellence in prioritizing and promoting the health and well-being of their students.