8 Well-Being Program – Capilano University

Program History

• Target audience: students
• When looking to create the program: did a scan of existing programs at larger institutions, attended conferences, and investigated ways to get into classroom
• At Capilano, it is difficult to keep students on campus – most leave right after class due to job, children, and family obligations
• Students adopted and received training on Let’s Get Consensual campaign:
  • 50 students signed up for first workshop, but no students showed up – had to re-think format of program to make it work at Capilano U
• As a small institution, can use flexibility as our strength.
• Met with faculty to figure out how to work with their needs and fit in Let’s Get Consensual program:
  • Got faculty buy-in to present consent workshops in 15 or 20 minute sessions in the classroom.

Workshops

• Invited to class of 105 students to deliver entire 2-hour workshop during gender diversity class in Acting for Screen program – 80% international students
• For international students, cultural knowledge gaps and language barriers on consent, rape culture, and gender identity:
  • Developed a 1-hour workshop on consent, laws in Canada, and definitions.
  • Offered at every orientation for international students.
• Students have expressed interest in multi-hour workshops.

Other Initiatives

• “Take the Pledge” to get thoughts going around consent and emphasize it is everyone’s responsibility.
• Peers Helping Peers program to train selected students for in-class facilitation and outreach activities.
• Hired 3 students as Well Being Ambassadors.
• Connect to students in different modes.
• Strong relationship with student union.