With two more weeks of classes in the fall 2020 term, Birmingham-Southern SGA leaders have planned a week of events focused on student wellness.

SGA’s first-ever Wellness Week begins Monday, Nov. 9 with daily events centered on mental health and mindfulness. Students involved hope that, before the campus community leaves for Thanksgiving and winter break, Wellness Week brings some peace to a stressful time of year.

“We’re looking forward to celebrating mental wellness on campus,” says Sutton Smith, current SGA President.

Through wellness week, student leaders are strengthening the connection between SGA and Counseling Services, something that Smith emphasized in her campaign earlier this fall. SGA has also partnered with faculty members, student organizations, and Birmingham community leaders to make the week possible.

Here’s what’s on schedule for Wellness Week.

Monday, Nov. 9: At 4 p.m., Dr. Katie McIntyre, assistant professor of sociology and certified yoga instructor, will lead a meditation practice at the Res Hall Quad. The session will focus on breathing and relaxing your mind.

Tuesday, Nov. 10: Amanda Keller, founding director of the Magic City Acceptance Center, will lead a virtual discussion on LGBTQ mental health at 11 a.m. Then, at 4 p.m., SGA and Quest II will hold an art therapy event at the fountain.

Wednesday, Nov. 11: Yoga will be held at the Res Hall Quad at 4 p.m. Later, in partnership with the Black Student Union, psychiatrist Dr. Leesha Ellis-Cox will lead a virtual talk at 7:30 p.m. on mental health in the African American community.

Thursday, Nov. 12: Dr. Sherilyn Garner, founder and director of A Friend of Mine, will lead a discussion on mindfulness during holiday stressors. The talk will be at 11 a.m. in Munger Auditorium.

Friday, Nov. 13: From 1-3 p.m. at the fountain, SGA is holding a farmer’s market with floral bouquets, fresh fruit and vegetables, student vendors, and samples from City Bowls and Alabama Peanut Company.

In addition to the SGA-sponsored events, this week also marks the introduction to BSC’s new mindfulness program and meditation space. On 4 p.m. Friday, the campus community is invited to attend a webinar session that will raise awareness of two eight-week mindfulness training sessions for 2021.

Earlier this fall, BSC received a $5,000 grant to establish a campus mindfulness program, made possible by a partnership with the Trust for the Meditation Process, a charitable foundation encouraging meditation, mindfulness, and contemplative prayer. We’re looking forward to this program and other events that provide spaces and recourses for wellness.