Project Proposal
The Elevator Pitch
Class has just ended; it was our last Capstone together. We joke about our first-year experiences’ and how dumb we all were, wishing we had known then what we knew now as seniors- all the things we would have done, all the places and opportunities we would have taken advantage of, and all the things we DEFINITELY wouldn’t have been doing. Some of us reflect on how difficult of a time this was for us. Your world suddenly being so totally different left you struggling with your mental health and the winter only causing you to feel a greater sense of imprisonment on campus and in yourself. Soon to be parting ways by the shuttle, we all enter the elevator in CCM with a small group behind jumping in behind us. The group included Champlain’s president, Jerome Holland, the director of housing, and Pat Boera. Noticing that I am holding my capstone proposal, Pat whispers quietly “Elder-Snitch” “Elbow-Itch?” I am not quite sure, but she is holding a timer set to 90 seconds.
Students and Faculty,
According to Champlain’s research, approximately 45% of students who voluntarily withdraw from Champlain College each year identified mental health issues as the driving force behind their decision. This is not a sustainable trend and we need to work harder and focus more resources on finding ways to support and heal our community. The future of Champlain’s success and retention will be founded on generating community and creating programming that focuses on improving students mental health and wellbeing.
I and three others have created a proposal to aid in this development through the Champlain Health and Mindfulness Program- a wellness themed learning community that would be placed in McDonald Hall, a space due for renovation starting in 2020. The community's focus would look at strengthening students’ connection to their physical, mental, and emotional health, food, and community through programming, community collaboration, and mindful spaces. Creating supportive spaces such as this will allow residents to take full advantage of their education without sacrificing their health.
As neighbors, friends, and engaged community members I encourage you to invest in the future of Champlain’s student body. I have created a website that outlines the proposal and I would be happy to meet with anyone for further questions and development. Can I email you all a link?
