Publication Date

Spring 5-14-2019

Document Type

Action research project: Open access

Degree Name

MA Higher Education Leadership

Department

Leadership Studies

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to bridge the gap between students of color and mental health resources at a predominantly white institution. Previous research demonstrates that negative mental health outcomes are positively correlated with students who feel a lack of belonging while on campus. These negative outcomes are felt more pronouncedly by students of color. Furthermore, students of color are shown to underutilize mental health resources relative to their white-identifying peers. Utilizing my positionality as a person of color working within a wellness office, I worked with students of color, wellness professionals, and multicultural professionals to ask what more can be done to serve students of color. Through surveys, interviews, and interactive activities, we found that increased and intentional collaboration between wellness and multicultural services is needed. Further, it was found that increased visibility, relationship-building, and co-created practices with wellness staff helps students connect with wellness services.

Creative Commons License

Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 License
This work is licensed under a CC BY License.

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