We live in tough times of uncertainty. Work, family, politics and constant expectations to be digitally connected 24/7 are just a few things weighing on our minds on a daily basis.
Dr. Robert K. Nye
President, Finger Lakes Community College
Before entering post-secondary education, I spent 30 years in the Army. Serving during a period of extended conflict can take its toll on individuals and their families. The Army adopted a program from the University of Pennsylvania’s Positive Psychology Center and their Penn Resilience Program focusing on six resiliency competencies: Self Awareness – paying attention to one’s thoughts and emotions; Self-Regulation – the ability to change one’s behaviors for positive change; Mental Agility – the ability to appreciate multiple viewpoints and think creatively; Strengths of Character – the ability to use one’s strengths to overcome challenges; Connections – the ability to build strong relationships; and Optimism – the ability to focus on the positive and what you can control in life.
The Army crafted their program focusing on five areas: Physical Readiness – encouraging healthy behaviors including adequate sleep, nutritional and exercise regimens, and awareness of tobacco and substance abuse; Psychological – cognitive, emotional and behavioral fitness stressing life balance; Social – building cohesive, inclusive, and community based awareness in the work and home environment; Spiritual – engaging in a purposeful, ethical and philosophical life; and finally, Family – encouraging quality of life, healthy relationships, stress management, and fiscal management.
When I came to Finger Lakes Community College, I was excited to learn similar values are incorporated within the FLASHP consortium. Our Wellness Committee at FLCC references the Wellness Wheel and offers walking and healthful eating and lifestyle seminars, mindful meditation, yoga and Tai Chi to engage the mind/body connection to name just a few activities. Additionally, on page 8 of this magazine, you’ll read how FLCC promotes financial wellness through a full week of financial educational opportunities.
The FLASHP consortium and wellness committees at each of our institutions do so much for our faculty, staff and students in providing the tools for engaging in a holistic approach to wellness. It is important for each of us to continue supporting these efforts and developing a climate and culture that nurture and educate our faculty, staff and students on how they can achieve and maintain a purposeful, healthy and harmonious life. Together we can!
