University of Richmond Recognized Nationally for Health & Well-Being Efforts, Creating a Culture of Wellness on Campus
UR is among 145 Campuses Honored by Exercise is Medicine®, Receives Gold Status
UNIVERSITY OF RICHMOND — The University of Richmond has received a gold-level award from Exercise is Medicine® for its efforts to foster health and well-being for students and employees.
Exercise is Medicine® launched its recognition program in 2014 to honor campuses for creating a culture of wellness. Schools earn gold, silver, or bronze status based on their activities. UR, which has worked with Exercise is Medicine® On Campus since 2018, is one of only 145 colleges around the world to be honored. Gold-level campuses — the highest honor — champion health and well-being as a priority. UR also received a gold award last year and has previously received silver and bronze awards.
Well-being is one of UR’s strategic priorities. The University’s Health and Well-Being unit includes Counseling and Psychological Services, the Student Health Center, Disability Services, University Recreation, and Health Promotion. These services are intentionally integrated to provide the best possible continuity of care, communication, and health outcomes for the campus community. Health and Well-Being also incorporates Exercise is Medicine® programming on campus, including asking physical activity-related questions in intake exams and discussing exercise during meetings with students.
“Exercise is an important part of a holistic well-being plan,” said Sarah Sheppard Lee, manager of fitness and facilities. “Our campus healthcare providers assess student physical activity and refer students, as necessary, to a certified fitness professional as part of medical treatment. This type of service for our students sets us apart from other schools.”
“I'm incredibly proud of our health and well-being team,” said Aesha L. Uqdah, a clinical psychologist and associate vice president of health and well-being. “Being recognized in this way highlights the exceptional work we do for our students and employees and our commitment to integrating all areas of wellness, including being physically active.”
Exercise is Medicine® is a community-impact initiative of the American College of Sports Medicine. Universities who received an award will be recognized at a ceremony in late May.
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