Healthier, happier

A philanthropic foundation established by two alumni is enabling the university to strengthen its position at the forefront of colleges exploring modern approaches to student well-being.

In April, the university announced that the Walrath Family Foundation — established by Michael and Michelle O’Donoghue Walrath, ’97 and ’98, respectively — pledged a lead gift to launch a fundraising effort to build a new campus Well-Being Center.

“Mike and I hope the center will enable UR to become a leader in the campus health and well-being movement,” Michelle Walrath said. “Nutrition, which affects our lives in so many ways, needs to be the focal point of our wellness initiative, and we need to think of wellness holistically. If we can do this effectively, we can graduate healthier and happier students. ... We hope that others will join us in this important effort.”

The center will house all campus health care in one location, providing convenient yet discreet access for students and enhancing the university’s ability to provide integrated care and support. It furthers the momentum of the opening of the Weinstein Center for Recreation in 2007 and the creation of a Health and Well-being Unit in fall 2017.

“Michael and Michelle Walrath believe strongly in the power of well-being to transform society, and their gift will have a lasting impact on our students,” President Ronald A. Crutcher said.