A new category has been added for the annual awards from the Office of Human Rights, Equity and Accessibility will recognize those promoting mental health and helping to remove the stigma associated with mental illness.

The Mental Health Champion Award demonstrates that creating a healthy learning environment is critical to the success of students, says Mohsan Beg, clinical director of the Student Counselling Centre.

“Identifying mental health champions on our campus sends a message to our entire community that the University values a wholistic approach to learning,” Dr. Beg says. “Actively fostering mental well-being not only results in healthier, happier, and more productive students but also contributes to the development of a caring, compassionate campus environment.”

The awards program is intended to honour contributions of individuals and groups who advance human rights, social justice, diversity, inclusivity, employment equity and accessibility at the University of Windsor.

The awards committee is looking for demonstrated evidence and specific examples in five categories. In addition to the Mental Health Champion Award, there are:

• Accessibility Award;
• Employment Equity Award;
• Human Rights and Social Justice Award; and
• the OHREA Award.

Nominations may come only from staff, faculty, students, alumni and retirees of the University, no later than October 31. More information about the awards and the nomination process can be found on the awards website.

The awards will be conferred at an open house event on December 8.