Center for Well-Being

Mission

WPI’s Center for Well-Being (CWB) is a hub for cross-functional campus efforts aimed at improving student, community, and campus well-being through evidence-based practices, coordinated initiatives, the support of student and faculty research, and strategic visioning.

 

Well-Being Foundations and Philosophy

 

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A graphic of four puzzle pieces coming together to form a heart with various forms of well-being illustrated within them.

The CWB takes a holistic approach to well-being that empowers individuals to foster a sense of vitality (managing cognitive, physical, emotional, social, and spiritual energy), meaning and purpose, enjoyment, connection, and community. The CWB also utilizes comprehensive and coordinated initiatives that encompass peer advocacy, academic initiatives, population-based interventions, individual and small group training, and culture change.

Our evidence-based approach is informed by research and theory:

  • Martin Seligman’s theory of flourishing (PERMA, which includes positive emotion, engagement, positive relationships, meaning, and accomplishments/achievements)
  • The six dimensions of wellness (occupational, physical, social, intellectual, spiritual, and emotional) developed by the National Wellness Institute
  • Longitudinal research on health and aging (such as the Harvard Study of Adult Development, which began in 1938)
  • Learning science
  • Research on student success

Our ultimate goal is to give all members of the WPI community the support and resources they need to craft their own wellness stories and journeys. This quote from Desmond Tutu inspires our work: “Do your little bit of good where you are; it’s those little bits of good put together that overwhelm the world.”

Federal Work Study Eligible Students Only

Now hiring CWB Desk Assistants!

Are you passionate about well-being and promoting a campus culture that supports the well-being of each member of the WPI community? Join the CWB as a Desk Assistant! Working with the Center for Well-Being staff, Desk Assistants will gain direct experience with the CWB, communication, and knowledge of topics related to public health promotion and wellness education.  

This minimum wage position is for the full 2024-2025 academic year. We are currently accepting applications for Federal Work Study eligible students only. This application closes Friday, August 30th. Click here to apply.

Office and Contact Information

Phone: 508-831-6494

Email: cwb@wpi.edu

Office Hours: Monday - Friday,  8:00am – 4:30pm

Wellness Hub Hours: Monday - Friday,  8:00am – 8:00pm

Location: Daniels Hall Room 102/Morgan Wedge

Director: Paula Fitzpatrick, Ph.D., 508-831-5528, pfitzpatrick@wpi.edu

Assistant Director: Gina Heinsohn, MA,  508-831-5129, gheinsohn@wpi.edu 

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In addition to services provided by the CWB, additional campus resources are available to support the health and well-being of our students, from Accessibility Services to Academic Advising to the Office of Diversity, Inclusion & Multicultural Education.