The Wellness Collaborative at the University of Waterloo was created in response to and guided by the principles of the Okanagan Charter: An International Charter for Health Promoting Universities and Colleges.
This Charter, signed by the University of Waterloo in 2018, calls on post-secondary schools to actively integrate health and wellness into the learning environments, business operations, and academic mandates. These efforts will support a culture of empathy, sustainability, and social justice. By supporting the wellbeing of everyone at Waterloo, we will enhance the success of our institution through increased recruitment, retention, and academic achievement.
The University of Waterloo is also committed to working towards becoming a leader in establishing new and innovative health promotion projects, initiatives, research, and learning opportunities.
In working towards these aspirational commitments, the Wellness Collaborative has identified five priority areas based on the unique needs and context of Waterloo
Learn more about the five priority areas and how the University of Waterloo is making ongoing efforts to implement positive change within each area.
These priorities may shift over time to be responsive to emerging needs of our community.
News
Promoting wellness through active living…even while remote!
However you choose to move, the most important part is that you do! We spoke with Robbyn Hesch, Donna Rheams and Adam Steeves from the Department of Athletics and Recreation about the importance of active living and the wellness initiatives they’re leading.
The benefits of connecting with others: Belonging matters
An individual’s wellbeing and sense of belonging are closely related. When we talk about belonging, it is often described as feeling like an important member of a group or community. Without this feeling of belonging, individuals can start to feel socially isolated or lonely, which affects overall wellbeing. Making a connection with others can be challenging, especially at a large institution.
Teaching to make an impact
The importance of health and wellness in the classroom is something Cealan Wang works hard to achieve. Wang, recipient of the Amit and Meena Chakma Award for Exceptional Teaching by a Student (2019), knows that creating a healthy and engaging learning environment goes beyond simply giving information.