Student Wellness, Access & Inclusion
The Office of Student Wellness, Access and Inclusion at Edward Waters University provides a confidential, supportive, and inclusive space for students, faculty, and staff. We offer a variety of services and resources to assist with personal, academic, and developmental challenges that may impact overall student experience.
Recognizing the increasing mental health needs of college students worldwide, we are committed to promoting healthy solutions for managing mental health illness and disabilities. Our mission is to enhance awareness, foster understanding, and support student well-being throughout their academic journey
Our Mission
The Office of Student Wellness, Access, and Inclusion is dedicated to fostering a holistic student experience by supporting the physical, emotional, mental, and social well-being of all Edward Waters University (EWU) students. Through inclusive programs, wellness education, and strategic support services, the office empowers students to thrive in every aspect of their collegiate journey. Our team is committed to promoting equity, accessibility, and belonging by creating a safe and supportive campus environment that values and uplifts the diverse identities and needs of our student body.
Goals & Objectives
Foster Student Growth & Self-Awareness:
- Encourage both personal and academic development.
- Offer support to students in overcoming emotional, social, and developmental challenges that impact academic progress.
Outreach & Educational Awareness:
- Provide educational programs to raise awareness of key issues (e.g., stress management, sexual assault, and domestic violence).
- Offer interventions to support student engagement in personal growth and academic success.
Collaboration with Faculty & Staff:
- Work closely with faculty and staff to increase student participation in workshops and programs.
- Consult with faculty regarding students facing emotional, social, or academic challenges.
Individual & Group Counseling:
- Provide UWill Telehealth Therapy Resources
Workshops & Educational Programs:
- Conduct workshops on various topics like stress management, personal safety, and other relevant areas of student well-being.
- Develop programs tailored to addressing students’ developmental and emotional needs.
Disability Support & Accommodations:
- Offer consultation and reasonable accommodations in accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act.
- Develop an accessible referral process for students in need of additional support.
Community Engagement & Referrals:
- Establish ongoing relationships with community agencies to ensure appropriate consultation and referral services are available to students.
- Share information with faculty and staff about counseling, disability services, and how they can assist students.
Consultation & Support Services:
- Collaborate with mental health and disability professionals to understand agency services, policies, and procedures.
- Facilitate consultations with faculty and staff to ensure that students facing challenges receive the support they need.
Students may be referred to the Office of Student Wellness, Access, and Inclusion for individual counseling. However, individuals who are hostile, suicidal, or struggling with substance abuse will be immediately referred to external resources for further support.
In the event of an emergency or if a student poses a clear and imminent danger to themselves or others, please contact Campus Security or dial 911 immediately.
Due to confidentiality requirements, the office is unable to discuss a student’s situation without a written release from the student. We also ask that concerns be submitted within 24 hours, unless it is an emergency.
Our Services
The Office of Student Wellness, Access, and Inclusion is dedicated to helping you identify and address what is troubling you, clarify your goals, stay focused on your studies, and develop strategies for handling challenging situations. These concerns may include:
- Conflicts with parents
- The loss of a family member or friend
- Relationship breakups
- Feelings of stress, depression, and anxiety
We offer brief individual or group assistance to help students work through these challenges.
Group Assistance
Group assistance is available for small numbers of students facing similar concerns, providing support and shared experiences.
Disability Accommodations
We offer disability accommodations to ensure equal opportunities for qualified individuals, in line with the Americans with Disabilities Act.
Workshops and Class Presentations
Outreach and awareness workshops, as well as class presentations on various topics related to personal growth and mental health, can be requested. Please allow at least three (3) days’ notice for workshop or presentation requests.
Drug and Alcohol-Free Environment
The Office of Student Wellness, Access and Inclusion aligns its programs with Edward Waters University’s commitment to maintaining a drug- and alcohol-free environment for all students. Referral services are available upon request. For related policies and procedures, please refer to the Edward Waters University Student Handbook.
HIV/AIDS and Sexually Transmitted Infections
- Testing Services: HIV/AIDS and sexually transmitted infection (STI) testing is available.
- Referrals: When appropriate, referrals to community service agencies are provided.
Sexual Assault and Domestic Violence
In alignment with Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972 and the Campus SaVE Act (2013), counseling and disability services at Edward Waters University ensure a learning and work environment free from discrimination and harassment.
The Office of Student Wellness, Access, and Inclusion is designated to provide confidential services for individuals affected by sexual assault and domestic violence. For formal complaints or further assistance, please contact the Title IX Coordinator.
For related policies and procedures, please refer to the Edward Waters University Student Handbook.
Emergency Psychological Assessment
When deemed appropriate, the Director of Student Wellness, Access, and Inclusion may recommend that a student is seen outside of the college for a psychological assessment. Based upon the outcomes of the assessment, the Vice President of Student Success and Engagement may determine whether the student may continue matriculation at the college.
- Emergency intervention-students behavior represents imminent danger to self and/or others.
- Formal Complaint-students behavior interferes with or interrupts the overall learning environment of the campus community.
- A consultation will be held with the student regarding a recommendation for a psychological evaluation/assessment.
The student is responsible for obtaining the psychological/assessment within three (3) days of notification. Community referrals will be determined by the Director.
A release form must be signed by the student that will allow the college to receive results of the evaluation/assessment. Copies of the outcomes will be maintained in a locked file cabinet in Student Wellness, Access, and Inclusion.
Assessment results must be received within five (5) business days. At that time, there will be a review of the documents. A decision will be made within three (3) days and the student will be notified in writing.
A variety of free information handouts and videos are available on topics including:
- AIDS
- Depression
- Drugs and Alcohol
- Domestic Violence/Dating Violence
- Eating Disorders
- Grief
- Mental Illnesses
- Types of Prescription Drugs
- Sleep Problems
- Stress Management
- Suicide Prevention
Mental Health History and Administrative Policies
Prior Mental Health History
All students at Edward Waters University are strongly encouraged to inform and participate in an intake interview with the Office of Student Wellness, Access and Inclusion if they are currently under the care of a mental health professional, have a history of or current mental health diagnosis, or are taking prescribed medications for a mental health condition. Failure to comply with this policy may result in temporary mental health administrative leave.
Mental Health Administrative Withdrawal
A student experiencing a mental health episode that poses a direct threat to their own health or safety, the safety of others, or may be detrimental to the best interests of the university (such as impeding educational progress or well-being of others) may be recommended by the university for administrative withdrawal.
The Student Threat Assessment Team (STAT) is a group of campus professionals dedicated to responding to reports of concern regarding students in distress or crisis.
How STAT Can Help
STAT proactively addresses concerns to maintain a safe and productive living and learning environment. We reach out to students quickly, ensuring they connect with the right resources for their situation. Issues we address include:
- Self-harm
- Threats to others
- Family difficulties
- Stress management
- Mental health concerns
- Addictions
- Other related matters
Report a Concern, Violation, or Problem
To report any concerns about a student’s behavior or well-being, please complete and submit a referral form within 24 hours, unless it is an emergency. For purely academic concerns (such as excessive absences or poor performance), please follow your department’s policies. If a student discloses a disability, refer the student to the Office of Student Wellness, Access and Inclusion.
For questions or concerns, contact us at 904.470.8231 or 904.415.7902.
Report Sexual Misconduct
Employees are required to report any incidents of sexual misconduct (e.g., sexual harassment or assault) to the Title IX Coordinator. Please refer to the Sexual Misconduct, Sexual Assault, and Sexual Harassment Policy. The Office of Student Wellness, Access and Inclusion guaranteesconfidentiality in these matters.
Immediate Action Required
For immediate concerns involving threats to harm oneself or others, significant threats to the university community, or other emergency issues, please dial 911 and/or contact Campus Security.
Due to confidentiality constraints, information about a student cannot be disclosed without their written release. Please submit concerns within 24 hours, unless it is an emergency.
For questions or concerns, reach us at 904.470.8231 or 904.415.7902.
SWAI Staff
Our team offers a variety of support services to you as you matriculate here at Edward Waters University.
Director of Student Wellness,
Access, and Inclusion
Student Union Building, Rm 124
Office: 904.470.8231
After Hours: 904.415.7902
Fax: 904.470.8028
Email: k.dunklin@ewc.edu
Quick Links – Resources & Services
Let Us Help You
FAFSA
Students seeking federal financial aid are required to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).
Edward Waters University’s priority deadline is April 15th each year.
All documents submitted to the Office of Financial Aid can take up to 21 business days for processing.
To prevent a delay in processing your documents, please be sure to:
- Verify documents are filled completely, legible and signed.
- Check that documents that require a signature have been appropriately signed and dated.
- Verify that all documents contain the student’s name and EWU ID Number.
*Business days do not include the weekends, holidays, and all other unspecified days the university is closed.
Take the Next Step Toward Your Success
Whether you’re exploring degree programs, planning a campus visit, or preparing to apply, EWU is here to support you. Discover an environment where your ambitions are encouraged, your journey is valued, and your future is within reach.