MyWestern
Academic Calendar
Bookstore
University Catalog
Athletic & Recreational Venues
MyWestern
Academic Help
Library
Health & Wellness
Campus Map
Events
Students don’t always arrive at college with the same needs, which is why Western Colorado University offers a broad range of resources to support their well-being and academic success. Now, those efforts have earned Western a place in the Comprehensive Tier of the Colorado Department of Higher Education’s Basic Needs Campus designation.
The new designation replaces Colorado’s former Hunger Free Campus and Healthy Minds Campus programs, and recognizes institutions with strong, student-centered systems that address essential needs ranging from food security and housing stability to mental health and wellness.
“We’re honored to have received the Basic Needs Campus Designation – Comprehensive Tier. I feel strongly that there is no Student Success without Student Wellness. So, being recognized by CDHE for the work that Western is doing to promote student well-being by offering basic needs supports showcases that we’re on the right path and are doing what is best for our students’ success,” said Director of Community Wellness McKenzie Mathewson.
“From here, we’ll continue to provide support services and resources, knowing that everyone’s path through college is a little different. Community Wellness is happy to partner with students as they explore what wellness means to them.”
CDHE’s Basic Needs Campus Designation has two levels: the Cornerstone Campus designation recognizes institutions that are building foundational systems to address students’ basic needs, and the Comprehensive Campus designation highlights institutions with more advanced support systems focused on reducing barriers, alleviating stress, and improving student retention and completion.
By recognizing institutions committed to supporting students’ essential needs, CDHE aims to strengthen campus support systems, encourage the sharing of best practices, and help ensure that all Colorado students have access to the resources they need to succeed.
The designation reflects Western’s continued commitment to ensuring students have access to the resources they need to succeed, recognizing that student well-being and academic success go hand in hand.
Related Stories
