Symposium 6th World Congress on Positive Psychology 2019

George Mason University Evolving As A Model Well-Being University (#136)

Nance Lucas 1
  1. George Mason University, Fairfax, VA, United States

Since 2014, George Mason University has as one of its strategic goals to become a model well-being university.  This initiative is embedded in the university’s ten-year strategic plan and is one of 12 goals for students, faculty, and staff.  The university defines well-being as, “Building a life of vitality, purpose, resilience, and engagement”  and includes measurement activities and metrics that are shaping the direction of this bold vision and goal. An ecosystem of well-being was designed through a collaboration of university leaders, faculty, staff, students, and scholars and scientists in the fields of well-being, positive psychology, and leadership (as examples).  The university is drawing upon the science and practices of well-being, positive education, and strengths-based approaches and integrating this work into the DNA of the university, making these resources accessible to all community members.  Today, a range of academic courses, minors, general education programs exist and are complemented by cocurricular experiences that include a Resilience Badge, student well-being peer educators, and thematic residence halls.  Employees well-being programs exist at every level of the organization and are embedded in faculty/staff leadership development programs.  The overview of George Mason University will include how we got here, where we’re going, and lessons learned.