Publication Date
Spring 5-12-2025
Document Type
Action research project: Open access
Degree Name
MA Higher Education Leadership
Department
Leadership Studies
Abstract
Latinx college students are the fastest growing demographic on college campuses. As this population continues to rise, institutions must adapt their programming to meet their unique needs. One key factor influencing Latinx success and retention is wellness. The purpose of this action research project was to investigate the relationship between culture and wellness and use this information to implement culturally-relevant wellness initiatives for Latinx students. The main research question that guided this study was: How can I incorporate culturally-relevant wellness events into United Front Multicultural Commons’ programming for Latinx students? I conducted three cycles that included a wellness event, plática and testimonios. The findings indicated that while the relationship between wellness and culture is complex, students are eager for institutional support that recognizes the intersectionality of these two factors. Recommendations include expanding services at the United Front Multicultural Commons, increasing Latinx representation and institutional funding for Latinx student initiatives and organizations at the University of San Diego.
Digital USD Citation
Valenzuela, Valentina, "La Cultura Cura: Implementing Culturally-Relevant Wellness Programs for Latinx College Students" (2025). M.A. in Higher Education Leadership: Action Research Projects. 151.
https://digital.sandiego.edu/soles-mahel-action/151
Copyright
Copyright held by the author
Creative Commons License
This work is licensed under a CC BY-NC-ND License.