Supporting Health and Wellbeing at Wake Forest
As you prepare to return from winter break, I hope this time away has been restorative, joyful and safe. Whether you spent the break with loved ones, traveled locally or abroad, or enjoyed quiet time at home, your wellbeing matters — to you and to our entire Wake Forest community.
Before returning to campus, I encourage you to continue prioritizing your health and the health of others. Respiratory illnesses such as influenza, COVID-19 and RSV remain prevalent in many communities. To minimize the spread of illness in our close-quarters living and learning environment, practice good hygiene, stay mindful of your health and avoid close contact with anyone who is sick to help protect you and those around you.
Once you return, please keep the following in mind:
- Stay healthy on campus. Practicing good hand hygiene, regularly cleaning personal living spaces, and staying home when you are unwell help protect both you and our community. Learn more about preventing and managing upper respiratory illness on campus by visiting Deacon Health’s guidance page.
- Academic continuity. Illness can affect your ability to engage fully in classes and activities. If you must miss class, communicate proactively with your faculty about your situation and expectations. Visit the Office of Academic Advising website for additional guidance.
- Access care through Deacon Health. Deacon Health provides on-campus medical services for acute illness, immunizations and more. Visit the Deacon Health website to learn about available services, appointments and after-hours support.
The greatest wealth is health. – Virgil
Opportunities this semester
This semester offers many ways to engage, lead and care for yourself and others. Below is a snapshot of upcoming events and initiatives.
Campus Climate Survey on Sexual Misconduct (Jan. 26–Mar. 16)
You will receive an email inviting you to participate in a campus climate survey on sexual misconduct. This survey is administered every four years to assess campus climate and inform efforts to create an environment free from harassment and interpersonal violence. Your confidential feedback helps us understand what is working well, where additional support is needed, and informs expanded resources for prevention, education and support.
Sleepin’ Deacon Challenge (Feb. 8–22)
Focused on promoting healthy sleep habits, the Sleepin’ Deacon challenge invites participants to track daily sleep practices and schedules. Participation supports physical and mental wellbeing and earns a unique Wake Forest prize. Open to students, faculty and staff.
Men’s Basketball vs. Stanford — We Are Wake Green Game (Feb. 14)
Join us at the Joel as men’s basketball takes on Stanford in the We Are Wake Mental Health Awareness Green Game. This game highlights Wake Forest’s commitment to mental health and reminds us that caring for ourselves and one another is a shared responsibility. Wear your “We” T-shirt, cheer on the Deacs and show that when it comes to mental health, We Are Wake.
Mental Health Awareness Week and Love Your Body Week (Feb. 23–28)
Student Government and the Division of Campus Life will host activities designed to support mental health and positive body image, including meditation, gardening, creative sessions at WakerSpace, peer panels, speed-friending with Mental Health Ambassadors and more. Additional details will be shared soon.
Thank you for doing your part to foster a campus where every Deac can thrive. I look forward to all that we will accomplish together.
Warm regards,
Dr. Warrenetta Mann
Assistant Vice President for Health and Wellbeing