Raul’s Report: Culture of Wellness

Raul Cardenas, Ph.D.
CU Denver Vice Chancellor for Student Affairs

Campus well-being and YOU

One thing I’ve learned about CU Denver is that we’re always moving forward and I’m excited to let you know about a new, more focused, campus-wide emphasis on wellness. Following the opening of our impressive new Lola & Rob Salazar Student Wellness Center, this is the perfect time to develop a plan that will maximize the resources available there and elsewhere across campus that support the well-being of our entire University community.

Physical wellness, emotional wellness, social wellness, financial wellness. All of it together creates a culture of wellness.

I shared in this space earlier this semester that I’ve made a personal commitment to my own physical wellness. That means regular trips to the wellness center at 6:15 a.m. for group fitness, weight training, or a cardio workout. I’m happy to report that I’ve lost a few pounds, but, even better, I have more energy and just feel good.

So, how focused are you on your own well-being? Maybe a trip to the center is your first step toward a renewed focus on wellness. If you don’t mind the early hour, look for me in the morning, come up and say hello. You can hold me accountable! Or, follow me on Instagram @RCardCUDenver.

Emotionally, connection is one of the things that helps promote our wellbeing. Do you feel connected? Are you responsive to others reaching out for connection? Taking the time to check in with ourselves and with our friends can make all the difference. Keep the lines of communication open. Don’t be afraid to seek out support and be prepared to listen.

And, for the times you or your friends need additional assistance, your first stop should be our Case Management team. Call 303-315-7306 or check the website at ucdenver.edu/csm.

Case managers are always ready to help you find the specific support services you need. It could be tutoring; the Loving Lynx Fund or Student Food Pantry, which are resources for students facing food and housing uncertainty; the Counseling Center, or any number of other services. Whatever’s best for you, case managers are experts at helping you navigate the often frustrating steps to get you there. Even better, they’re really good listeners!

So, are you with me? This commitment to a whole-person, whole-campus culture of wellness is one we all make together. By living our own lives well, we set the example and the standard for our community.

I’ll keep you posted as we develop our plan. And, if you want to talk about it, track me down bright and early in the Wellness Center, 6:15 a.m.!

Be well. Belong. Your success is our goal.

Raul Cardenas, Ph.D.

CU Denver Vice Chancellor for Student Affairs

Vice Chancellor for Student Development Raul Cardenas, Ph.D., is devoted to student success, enjoys sharing a good laugh, loves commencement, and leads a staff committed to providing the best student experience possible. Raul invites students to schedule a conversation with him. Email Bonnie.Hixson@ucdenver.edu for an appointment.