Q&A with SGA Vice President for Belonging and Wellness Marykate Foster – The Crimson White
At the University of Alabama, fostering a culture of inclusion, mental health awareness, and student wellness has become more important than ever. Marykate Foster, the Student Government Association (SGA) Vice President for Belonging and Wellness, is at the forefront of these initiatives. In this comprehensive Q&A, The Crimson White dives deep into Marykate’s vision, strategies, and first-hand experiences as she leads efforts to enhance belonging and wellness across campus.
About Marykate Foster and Her Role in SGA
Marykate Foster holds the vital position of Vice President for Belonging and Wellness in the SGA. Her role centers on advocating for initiatives that support students’ mental health, promote inclusiveness, and strengthen a sense of community within the University of Alabama. By collaborating with various campus groups and administrative departments, Marykate aims to implement policies that improve student life holistically.
Q&A: Insights from Marykate Foster on Student Wellness and Belonging
Q1: What inspired you to focus your SGA role on belonging and wellness?
Marykate Foster: “I’ve always believed that college is not just about academics, but about growth in every aspect — emotionally, socially, and mentally. After witnessing friends struggle with mental health challenges and feeling isolated, I realized there was a real need to prioritize belonging and wellness officially within SGA. My goal is to create an environment where every student feels seen, supported, and empowered.”
Q2: What are some current wellness initiatives under your leadership?
- Mental Health Awareness Campaigns: Regular workshops, guest speakers, and peer-led discussions to reduce stigma around mental health.
- Wellness Resource Enhancement: Partnering with campus counseling centers to extend service hours and improve accessibility.
- Inclusive Programming: Events designed to embrace diversity, including cultural celebrations and safe spaces for minority students.
- Physical Wellness Promotion: Encouraging fitness through campus-wide challenges and collaboration with recreational facilities.
Q3: How do you measure the success of your belonging and wellness efforts?
Marykate Foster: “We track engagement numbers at events and workshops, gather feedback through surveys, and continuously dialogue with student groups. Also, we look beyond just participation; seeing improvement in students’ experiences — such as feeling less stressed or more connected — is a huge indicator of success.”
Benefits of Prioritizing Student Belonging and Wellness
Promoting belonging and wellness on campus creates a ripple effect, producing positive outcomes for both individual students and the university community as a whole. Here are some key benefits:
- Improved Mental Health: Reduced levels of anxiety, depression, and burnout among students.
- Stronger Community: Increased student involvement and a sense of shared purpose within diverse groups.
- Academic Success: Students who feel supported tend to perform better academically and exhibit greater resilience.
- Retention Rates: Wellness initiatives contribute to better retention as students feel valued and connected to campus life.
Practical Tips from Marykate Foster to Enhance Belonging & Wellness
Marykate shares actionable advice that students can incorporate into their daily lives to boost their sense of belonging and promote personal wellness:
- Stay Connected: Join student organizations or study groups that align with your interests. Connection combats loneliness.
- Prioritize Self-Care: Schedule time for rest, physical activity, and activities that bring joy. Even a 10-minute walk helps!
- Seek Support When Needed: Don’t hesitate to use campus counseling services or peer support programs. Asking for help is a sign of strength.
- Practice Mindfulness: Techniques such as meditation or journaling can help manage stress.
- Celebrate Diversity: Engage with campus events celebrating cultural differences to foster understanding and inclusion.
Marykate Foster’s First-Hand Experience: Challenges and Triumphs
Marykate describes some of the obstacles she’s faced in her role, as well as rewarding moments that reaffirm her passion:
“One of the biggest challenges is overcoming misconceptions about mental health and getting students who might be struggling to step forward. But when we do see someone reach out or tell us they feel more accepted because of our programs, it’s a powerful reminder of why this work matters. It’s these stories that fuel my dedication.”
How Students Can Get Involved with Belonging and Wellness Initiatives
Marykate encourages students to take an active role in wellness efforts at the University of Alabama. Here are ways you can participate:
- Join SGA committees related to wellness and diversity.
- Volunteer with campus wellness events or peer counseling programs.
- Attend workshops and open forums to voice your ideas on improving campus life.
- Promote a culture of kindness by supporting classmates and reaching out to those who seem isolated.
Stay Connected with SGA Vice President Marykate Foster
To keep up with Marykate’s initiatives and upcoming wellness events, follow The Crimson White and the University of Alabama’s SGA official social media channels. Engaging with these platforms is a great way to find opportunities to contribute and benefit from a stronger, healthier campus community.