LearningWell

What if higher education made student wellbeing a priority on par with GPA and graduation rates? That’s the vision behind the Flourishing Academic Network (FAN), a collaborative of universities across?the United States and Canada?focused on embedding flourishing into the student experience. A new feature by Marjorie Malpiede explores FAN’s origins, including its pioneering course, The Art and Science of Human Flourishing, and highlights how member institutions like the Renée Crown Wellness Institute at University of Colorado Boulder are advancing innovative programs to promote wellness, belonging, and purpose. Discover how these initiatives aim to transform higher education and support students in living fulfilling lives. ?? Read the full story:

Marjorie Malpiede breaks down the latest survey results from The Princeton Review that highlight campus mental health resources. With nearly 90% of students saying health, mental health and wellness services impact their college choice, this report spotlights where schools stand in supporting student wellbeing.

Western Governors University is redefining online education with a competency-based model and flat-rate tuition, making degrees more affordable and flexible for working adults. A recent Gallup survey underscores WGU's success, revealing that alumni satisfaction at WGU often surpasses traditional universities, with graduates citing mentorship, career readiness, and degree value. In a time when higher ed ROI is under scrutiny, WGU stands out for delivering practical, affordable pathways to advancement. Read more in LearningWell:

In her recent op-ed for LW, Isabel Roche, Executive Director for Special Programs in Higher Education for the Endeavor Foundation, explores how liberal arts and humanities can play a critical role in supporting student mental health. With rising concerns about student well-being, Roche argues that higher ed must reinvest in helping students find purpose and a sense of belonging, emphasizing that the liberal arts provide unique opportunities for self-discovery, understanding the human condition, and fostering resilience—key components of mental health.

The bipartisan "Stop Campus Hazing Act" recently passed in the House, highlighting the importance of combating hazing culture on college campuses. However, prevention requires more than legislation—it demands evidence-based strategies that address the social and psychological drivers of hazing. In LW, Emily Perlow, Assistant VP and Dean of Students at Worcester Polytechnic Institute and Patrick Biddix from the Timothy J. Piazza Center for Fraternity and Sorority Research explore the complexities of hazing prevention, emphasizing the importance of belonging and power dynamics. Read more here for a deeper dive into these essential findings: https://lnkd.in/gXdmeTHR

In a new episode of "Invented Here" for LearningWell Radio, co-host Dana Humphrey talks with Dr. Joseph Tranquillo, Associate Provost at Bucknell University, to explore the Thrive Framework—a powerful, campus-wide approach designed to transform the student experience. The framework has sparked over 300 campus-wide initiatives aimed at meeting students' basic needs, fostering belonging, encouraging the use of campus resources, and promoting holistic growth, helping them thrive at Bucknell and beyond. ?? Listen now:

In "Character and Leadership: Personal Development as a Key to New Leadership Training," Nichole Bernier highlights innovative leadership programs that transform students' lives. At Texas Tech University, Jason R. Weber, Ed.D. shares how a shy student gained confidence through the Lead Like A Ram program, leading him to pursue a career in education. These programs, focused on skills like self-awareness and purpose, are shaping values-driven leaders for the future. Read the full article to learn how leadership development is evolving on campuses nationwide.

Don't miss the upcoming webinar hosted by LearningWell, Gallup, and the Coalition for Transformational Education on “Meaning Matters: How Higher Education Can Help Students Find Purpose in Life and Career.” ?? Wednesday, October 2 at 2:00 PM ET ? 60-minute session + Q&A Discover how higher ed can guide students toward purpose-driven lives and careers in this expert-led panel featuring: William Damon (Stanford Center on Adolescence) Wendy Fischman (Harvard Graduate School of Education) Stephanie Marken (Gallup) Register now:

The latest Healthy Minds Network study offers a glimmer of hope: for the first time in a decade, anxiety, depression, and suicidality are declining, while student flourishing is on the rise. In LearningWell , Marjorie Malpiede’s article, Healthier Campuses, explores these trends and the efforts on campuses to support student wellbeing. Dr. Sarah Lipson, principal investigator of the study, shares insights on how increased awareness and support are making a difference. Read more about what this means for higher education here:

?? Join LearningWell magazine, Gallup, and the Coalition for Transformational Education for a 60-min webinar on "Meaning Matters: How Higher Education Can Help Students Find Purpose in Life and Career." ?? Wednesday, October 2 at 2:00 PM ET It is well established that having a sense of purpose in your work and life is linked to overall wellbeing. Yet, fewer than half of graduates say they derive a sense of purpose from their work. In this panel discussion, leading scholars and researchers will dive into how higher education can foster a sense of purpose in students' lives and careers. Featured Panelists: ? William Damon, Director of the Stanford Center on Adolescence ? Wendy Fischman, Project Director at Project Zero, Harvard Graduate School of Education ? Stephanie Marken, Senior Partner, Gallup Register now to be part of this important conversation: