Labradors, Spaniels, and Pitbulls wagged their tails energetically as students pet them, while some students played cornhole and others learned how to zumba on the makeshift dance floor in McGuire Hall. The pups, pupils, and professionals gathered to enjoy these activities which were all a part of Loyola’s first ever WellFest.
WellFest, an event co-hosted by various departments on campus, focuses on teaching both new and returning students about wellness and providing resources to do so. The event was held on Sept. 18 and featured food, games, music, giveaways, and therapy dogs.
The Director of the Counseling Center Jason Parcover explained the inspiration behind this program.
“We tend to think about well-being in our own, private spaces. So, to be able to come together as a community to recognize, promote, and celebrate the idea of growing, taking good care of ourselves, and promoting student well-being is a part of who we are at Loyola,” Parcover said.
Similarly, the director of the Women’s Center, Melissa Lees, emphasized that Loyola’s approach to wellness works alongside the university’s motto of cura personalis, or “care for the whole person.”
“This is an absolutely wonderful opportunity for students to come out and see that wellness is a holistic approach and that we care about every aspect of our students,” Lees said.
The main attraction, though, were the therapy dogs in attendance. Pets On Wheels, a non-profit organization in Baltimore, partnered with Loyola to bring these furry friends to campus. Parcover was thrilled to incorporate therapy dogs into this program because of the benefits of having pets.
“Most people love dogs, so having them at our event helps people who are more introverted or shy feel really comfortable and come out to our events,” Parcover said.
“We also know that many of our students are very connected to pets back home. So, being able to spend some time with dogs or other animals can be really soothing and contribute to our well being,” Parcover said.
Students like Lindsey Messina ‘27, found herself enjoying the animals’ company while still gaining some knowledge because of WellFest.
“Honestly, I attended because I wanted to pet the dogs! Also, as an Evergreen, I thought there were a lot of good resources that I can pass on to my first-years,” Messina said.
Likewise psychology student Kyle Turner ‘27 found this event to be educational.
“It’s important for students to know these resources on campus and know that there’s a feeling of community around for everyone. Having an event where people can come and learn about all the facilities and resources that help them on campus is important,” Turner said.
In addition to the therapy dogs, there was a trail mix and ice cream bar for students to enjoy. Miss Shirley’s Café was also present to show the intersections of diet and wellness. Students were also encouraged to participate in zumba dance instruction that was being offered.
Stephaine Bravo, case manager of Student Support & Wellness Promotion at Loyola, was enlightened with the student turn out and was glad to spearhead this new event on campus.
“WellFest is a fun opportunity to show our students how offices are here to help them. We’re here to assist them and keep them healthy in all ways,” Bravo said.
To learn more about events like these, check out The Bridge.
