Don’t be misled by the name. Barton Community College’s SWAT organization is all about healthy behavior. SWAT stands for Student Wellness Awareness Team. Sponsor Jakki Maser talked about the new student-led club at a recent BCC Board of Trustees study session.

Mental health is a growing concern at college campuses across the nation, Maser said. She explained that SWAT is designed to promote a culture of mental, physical and social wellness throughout the BCC student body. Team members volunteer and encourage students to engage in activities that can enhance their overall wellness, and thus, help make the college experience safe, healthy, and enjoyable.

Club president Kiana Grandclair joined Maser for the presentation. She said she wanted to join a psychology club but there wasn’t one on campus, so she gravitated to this group. Members meet to discuss various strategies on enhancing wellness in mind, body and spirit.

Having students involved helps identify the latest trends and needs on campus, Maser said, whether it’s anxiety or eating disorders.

In the fall semester, the club worked alongside Residence Life to supply stress relief resources to students during the week before finals. They had a table set up with snacks, fidget toys and information about self-care.

This month, they are focused on men’s mental health. Club members have paired up with Campus Counseling to provide a Men’s Mental Health Awareness Campaign that emphasizes the importance of men embracing moments of vulnerability and forming close friendships. They have planned several activities for the month, including hosting Tuesday’s presentation on campus by Joshua Tanguay, a clinical psychologist from Hays. Tanguay’s presentation, “Man Up: and Other Stigmas that Hurt Men’s Mental Health,” will be offered at 1 p.m. and 4 p.m. on Feb. 18 in the Cavanaugh Room on campus. 

“The presentation is for men only, but is open to students, employees, and anyone else who wishes to attend,” Maser said.