Capitol News

Michigan State University (MSU) has announced its adoption of the Okanagan Charter, joining the U.S. Health Promoting Campuses Network (USHPCN). This move aligns MSU with other institutions committed to integrating health into all aspects of campus life.

The Okanagan Charter, established in June 2015, encourages higher education institutions to prioritize health promotion locally and globally. It offers a framework for campuses to become environments that support health and well-being.

“Michigan State University has long recognized that promoting the health and well-being of Spartans is foundational for academic, professional and life success,” stated MSU President Kevin M. Guskiewicz, Ph.D. He added that adopting the charter will enhance existing commitments sustainably.

MSU is one of four U.S. universities adopting the charter this year. The University of Alabama at Birmingham was the first in the country to adopt it in December 2020. The network fosters collaboration among members aiming to become Health Promoting Campuses (HPCs).

“We are excited to affirm our commitment to supporting health and well-being for all MSU students, faculty and staff by formally adopting the Okanagan Charter,” said Alexis Travis, assistant provost and executive director of University Health and Wellbeing.

The adoption involves institutional commitments to both the charter's principles and MSU’s strategic plan for implementing health promotion on campus. This approach aims to improve individual well-being while enhancing community sustainability.

In conjunction with adopting the charter, MSU is launching a University Health and Wellbeing Plan shaped by feedback from over 5,000 students, faculty, and staff. This plan will guide actions over the next five years.

Sislena Ledbetter, chair of USHPCN, welcomed MSU: “By embedding health and well-being into its campus culture, Michigan State University exemplifies leadership and a steadfast commitment to cultivating a thriving environment for students, faculty and staff.”