Albany State University (ASU) welcomed 1,159 students, faculty, staff, and community members to its fifth annual WellFest, transforming the Jones Brothers HPER Complex on East Campus into an interactive hub for health, wellness, and community engagement. 

Hosted by the Division of Student Affairs and Enrollment Management, this year's event embraced the theme "The Wellness Playbook," encouraging Rams to take an active role in their physical, mental, and emotional well-being through hands-on activities, preventive health screenings, and connections to valuable campus and community resources.

With 1,107 students participating, representing more than 95% of attendees, the event highlighted the University's continued commitment to making holistic wellness an essential part of the student experience.

"Wellness isn't a timeout from student success. It's part of the game plan. When more than 1,100 students show up in a single afternoon, they're telling us they want to win in every area of life. 'The Wellness Playbook' gave our Rams the plays to do it: move your body, fuel it well, know your numbers and never be afraid to ask for help."
- Dedra Williams, Assistant Vice President for Student Affairs and Holistic Development

Throughout the afternoon, attendees participated in a variety of activities designed to make healthy living both accessible and engaging. From yoga sessions led by Honey Flow Yoga and water aerobics to fitness challenges, hydration stations, and smoothies, students explored practical ways to incorporate wellness into their everyday lives.

The event also provided access to free healthy groceries from Better Way Grocers, biometric health screenings, first aid education and supplies, and an American Red Cross blood drive. The ASU Cheer Squad helped energize the crowd, while interactive activities and door prizes added to the celebration.

A highlight of this year's WellFest was the collaboration between Student Affairs and Enrollment Management and Academic Affairs, creating an opportunity for students to support the health of their peers while gaining valuable hands-on experience.

Nursing students from the ASU Darton College of Health Professions conducted biometric health screenings, providing preventive care and health education while strengthening their clinical skills. The ASU Dental Hygiene Program also participated, sharing oral health resources and scheduling appointments at the ASU Student Dental Hygiene Clinic.

"Knowing your numbers is the first play in any wellness playbook. Our student nurses screened their peers, explained what the results mean and connected them to follow-up care, all in one visit. That's prevention in action, and it's students taking care of students."
- Orlandria Bennett-Reed, MSN, RN, FNP-C, Director of Student Health Services

Mental health awareness remained an important focus of the event. Members of ASU's Active Minds student organization encouraged open conversations about emotional well-being, reducing stigma, and the importance of seeking support. Students also had opportunities to connect with mental health professionals and organizations offering education, guidance, and resources.

WellFest brought together 11 campus and community wellness partners, including the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), Phoebe Behavioral Health, Aspire Behavioral Health, The Change Center, Better Way Grocers, the American Red Cross, Honey Flow Yoga, ASU Student Health Services, ASU Counseling and Student Accessibility Services, Active Minds, and the ASU Darton College of Health Professions.

Now in its fifth year, WellFest continues to grow as a signature campus tradition, connecting the Albany State community with resources and experiences that promote healthier lifestyles. By bringing together education, preventive care, physical activity, and mental health awareness, the event reinforces the University's commitment to supporting students beyond the classroom.

Through initiatives like WellFest, Albany State University continues to foster a campus culture where wellness, connection, and student success go hand in hand, empowering Rams to thrive academically, personally, and throughout their lives.