STUDENT SUCCESS DEVELOPMENT OF A CAMPUS MENTAL HEALTH STRATEGY From 2018 to 2020, Northern College participated in the development of a Campus Mental Health Strategy. Prepared by the Mental Health Lead, the strategy was developed from the contributions of key participants, including students, support staff, faculty, administration, and community partners. Focus groups were held to determine service gaps and strategic priorities. The purpose of this development is to create a supportive, inclusive, and healthy campus aimed at fostering student and institutional success. The impacts of this strategy will only be measurable once it has been implemented. The draft was presented to the college Senior Management Team and Board of Governors to move the college forward in establishing increasingly holistic practices to promote well-being for the organization.
NEW POSITION: MENTAL HEALTH ADVISOR In March 2020, a new position was created to support student mental health and academic success. Working with the Student Advising Services team, this new position complements the comprehensive services and programs by supporting the implementation of the campus mental health strategy, offering direct support to students, and providing resources, training, and health promotion to the college community. This new set of supports aims to enhance the student experience and optimize student success. JACK CHAPTER In September 2019 to March 2020, Northern College supported the student-led Jack Chapter. Part of Canada’s largest youth movement to support mental health, the Chapter organized and participated in a number of events and activities throughout this academic year, including Orientation, Bell Let’s Talk Day, a Holi celebration, and the creation of a Facebook page encouraging students to connect. They also participated in Coldest Night of the Year, a community-based event in the fight against homelessness and food insecurity. Jack Chapter is not a campus service, but offers promotion and advocacy for student mental health. They worked closely with the College’s Student Advising Services. HOLIDAY CHEER CAMPAIGNS In October 2019, a campus committee dressed up with our mascot to deliver Halloween treats to students. Our Learning Resource Centre staff created an educational piece for our international students on the history of celebrating this holiday. In December 2019, a collaboration between various campus departments offered several supportive gestures for students. A jingle-mobile with holiday snacks and draws was delivered by our mascot, a holiday dinner was prepared for 30 students, a giving-tree with practical items was filled, and a photo opportunity with Santa was held. In March, our student government organized a Holi festival to celebrate positivity and new beginnings. Our campus committee also brought the students a snack-mobile and draw to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day, as well as providing snacks to students during exam time. These celebrations gain much attention from students and contribute to enhancing campus morale, connections, and interest in Canadian culture.
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