USU Launches Healthy Aggies Coalition in Collaboration With Bear River Health Department

LOGAN, Utah — USU Student Affairs, in collaboration with the Bear River Health Department, has announced the launch of the Healthy Aggies Coalition, a new campuswide initiative dedicated to fostering a culture of health and wellness among students.

Comprised of students, staff and faculty, the coalition will work to prevent substance misuse and promote mental health across the Aggie community.

Backed by evidence-based strategies and inclusive collaboration, the Healthy Aggies Coalition will take a proactive approach to addressing key public health concerns facing college campuses today. The coalition will focus on empowering students with the knowledge, resources and support systems they need to thrive both academically and personally.

“We’re excited to bring together voices from across campus to preserve everything that makes Utah State great while also guiding meaningful progress in the field of prevention,” said Angie Hatch, coordinator of the Healthy Aggie Coalition from Bear River Health Department. “Our goal, as it says in our mission statement, is to collaborate to implement strategies that reduce substance misuse and promote mental health awareness among USU students, faculty and staff.”

The coalition’s priorities include:

• Substance use prevention: Educating students on the risks of alcohol, tobacco and other drug use through peer outreach, policy advocacy and prevention programming.
• Mental health support: Promoting mental wellness and reducing stigma through campuswide campaigns, workshops and community partnerships.
• Community engagement: Building a network of student and community leaders, departments and community organizations to strengthen campus prevention efforts.

USU is inviting students, faculty and community members to get involved with the coalition’s efforts. Those interested in learning more or joining the Healthy Aggies Coalition can contact ryan.barfuss@usu.edu or ahatch@brhdut.gov.