The Okanagan Charter provides a framework for institutions to promote health and wellbeing of students and the campus community. Oakland University is among the first 50 universities in the United States to adopt the charter.
Oakland University has formally adopted the Okanagan Charter, which signifies the university’s commitment to providing students and the school’s community with a healthy campus focused on wellbeing. The university officially adopted the Okanagan Charter at an event promoting health and wellbeing on campus, becoming among the first 50 universities in the country to sign the charter.
According to an article on Oakland University's website, Becky Lewis, who serves as the director of University Recreation and Well-Being and the chair of the university’sHealthy Campus Network, was quoted as saying of the adoption, “We know that a mentally and physically healthy community leads to a thriving campus. Adopting the Okanagan Charter means we’re joining a global movement of health-promoting universities and reaffirming our commitment to embed health into every part of campus life. As part of the adoption, and as we move forward, we will foster an environment where everyone can live well in all areas of wellness – physical, mental, social, environmental and financial.”
The Okanagan Charter was created in 2015 and, according to the Health Promoting Campuses organization’s website, has two calls to action: “To embed health into all aspects of campus culture, across the administration, operations and academic mandates,” and “To lead health promotion action and collaboration locally and globally.” The charter was drafted by individuals from 45 countries.
The adoption of the Okanagan Charter is among the university’s initiatives to create a healthier campus through its Healthy Campus Network. The Healthy Campus Network, according to its webpage, seeks “to create and foster an environment where the Oakland University community has the opportunity to develop and attain a healthy and balanced lifestyle in all areas of well-being through innovative programs, opportunities for self-discovery and growth, and the cultivation of a compassionate campus culture.” The Healthy Campus Network provides a variety of resources for students, faculty, and staff, including group exercise classes, bright light therapy, personal training, club sports, financial coaching, nutrition consultations, pet therapy, and more.
University President Ora Hirsch Pescovitz said, “We’re so proud to lead by example and adopt the Okanagan Charter. By doing so, we are reaffirming our commitment to care for one another, nurture a campus where all can flourish and build a future rooted in health.”
For more information about Oakland University, visit the school’s website.