The Wellness Center buzzed with activity on Valentine’s Day as hundreds of students, faculty, and staff took part in the second annual Wellness Expo. Welcoming over 60 exhibitors representing wellness-based organizations, the expo offered a variety of interactive and engaging experiences, numerous raffle items, snacks, and free samples.
Among popular booths at the expo was Inspiring Insight, LLC, an organization that encourages people to seek help through therapeutic practices. Attendees were able to make their own therapy bags with a fidget toy, stickers, grounding exercises, and a card with other emotional support resources.
Worcester State University Military Affairs and Veteran Services was also present, saying their goal is to kickstart an initiative called Remember Everyone Deployed (R.E.D.), a show of support for deployed students in the military.
“I think, for our department, we’re just looking to spread awareness that our students have been here on campus and that they’re a big part, an integral part into the success of Worcester State,” said Dr. Stephanie Teixeira, director of Military Affairs and Veteran Services.
They also added to the fun by handing out t-shirts and setting up a giant inflatable obstacle course for attendees to try, courtesy of the Massachusetts National Guard.
Other attractions included the Worcester State Police Department, where attendees could try impairment goggles to learn the dangers of being under the influence, and Empowered Health & Training Services, which promoted CPR certification and pregnancy education and offered a handout of positive affirmations for college students.
“We’re getting a lot of great feedback and questions from the students. I’m really happy to be part of it,” said Nikki Stewart, owner of Empowered Health & Training. “I think it’s great that Worcester State holds this wellness event. There are a lot of great resources for all the students and I’m happy to be here.”
Throughout the Wellness Expo students and faculty gathered new resources, raffle prizes, activities, simulations, and even food samples as they explored what the journey of wellness has to offer.
Assistant Director of the Wellness Center Dean Bowen said he is pleased with the outcome of the event and expects it to be even bigger and more successful next year. The expo is made possible by the Rosen Cancer Awareness Fund, established by alumni couple Gregg and Pam Rosen to support cancer awareness and wellness programming on campus. This year, the Wellness Expo was also sponsored by Unicare.
“Overall, I think this year’s Wellness Expo was a huge success. We were able to have over 20 more exhibitors since last year that were able to offer even more engaging opportunities for our attendees. There were great health screenings, massages, and sound healing, things to drink, and food samples,” said Bowen.
Next year’s Wellness Expo is set to take place on Wednesday, February 12, 2025.
Photos by Colin Joyal and Deborah Alvarez O’Neil
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