Kennesaw State University recently received the 2025 Excellence in Mental Health and Well-Being Award from Insight Into Academia magazine, recognizing the institution’s community-driven approach to promoting mental health and well-being across its campuses.  

The award honors colleges and universities whose campuswide programs and initiatives demonstrate a strong commitment to mental health. KSU was selected for its initiative and comprehensive efforts through Wellbeing@KSU, a student-focused programming and services model led by the Division of Student Affairs, in collaboration with Human Resources, which supports the mental health and well-being of KSU faculty and staff.

KSU supports student mental health through a wide range of campus services, including access to on-campus mental health counselors, free meal and housing assistance programs, and emergency financial aid.

“When you're in the middle of the day-to-day, it's easy to get caught up in the to-do list and forget just how much our work means to the people we serve,” said Marcy Stidum, assistant vice president of student wellbeing. “This award is such a meaningful reminder that what we do at KSU really matters. I'm truly honored to be part of a community—and part of the effort—that’s so focused on taking care of every member of our KSU family.”

The recognition reflects the university’s efforts to integrate well-being into its strategic priorities, as KSU’s Human Resources has ensured well-being programs reach all employees – not just students.

For faculty and staff, KSU offers a comprehensive suite of well-being services such as employee assistance programs, employee fitness centers, paid parental leave, as well as mentoring and coaching programs. Employees also have access to mental health providers and professional development opportunities. The university is working to expand awareness of available benefits and enhance the Employee Fitness Center.

“It’s an amazing feeling and quite frankly a privilege to serve the KSU Community in this way.  With collaboration across our campus units, we find strategic ways to maximize our resources,” said Amy Phillips, deputy human resources officer. “It’s exciting to think about how we will continue to positively impact the well-being of Owl Nation in the coming year after the momentum of this past year.”