GVSU's health, well-being initiatives recognized nationally

Grand Valley's commitment to student and employee health and well-being was recognized with an award on August 5 by Insight Into Academia.

The 2025 Excellence in Mental Health and Well-Being Award recognizes 70 colleges and universities that commit to integrated mental health and wellness initiatives, accessibility services, peer support and proactive policies. Insight Into Academia magazine advances best practices in higher education excellence.

“The health and well-being of our Laker family is a priority for our university and we’re proud to be recognized for the work we’ve done building a people-centered culture,” said President Philomena V. Mantella. “We continually hear from our faculty, staff and students of the importance of this work and are always looking to provide even greater support in these areas.”

Kate Harmon, assistant vice president for Student Affairs, Well-being and Inclusion, said students find connections through fitness and wellness programs and welcoming spaces like the Recreation Center and Kirkhof Center.

"With the Grand River running through both the City and Valley campuses, plus the Valley’s beautiful tree canopy, Lakers enjoy the proven mental health benefits of nature," Harmon said. 

In 2023, Grand Valley joined a national network focused on university health promotion and prevention by signing the Okanagan Charter. Harmon said that effort created a foundation for the campus community to be more proactive about establishing programs and spaces that emphasize wellness. The work will continue in the fall semester, when, for example, the Campus Health Center will transition to a self-operating center and its health care providers will be university employees.

Amber Roberts, director of the University Counseling Center and Alcohol and Other Drugs Services, said the recognition reflects Grand Valley's strong commitment to student health and wellness and highlights the dedication of staff in the Division of Student Affairs who foster student connections.

"Our team of licensed professional mental health clinicians specializes in college student mental health and is deeply committed to the well-being of GVSU students," Roberts said. "Our clinicians engage in ongoing training to continuously enhance their skills in clinical care, prevention and education, crisis response, and the training of future counselors."

The Insight Into Academia award recipients will be listed in the publication's September issue.