Stockton University has been recognized nationally for its dedication to mental health and well-being, receiving the 2025 Excellence in Mental Health and Well-Being Award from Insight Into Academia magazine. Stockton is one of 71 higher education institutions across the country to receive the honor, which measures an institution’s commitment to advancing mental wellness and belonging.
The university will be featured in the magazine’s September issue for its on-campus programs, which were highlighted in the award application. These programs, run through its Wellness Center, demonstrate a holistic approach to mental health support.
“The Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS) office at Stockton has always strived to foster a culture of mental wellness and well-being for students, faculty and staff,” Brooke Zall-Crawford, Stockton’s director of CAPS said. “We are proud to be recognized for our continued commitment to mental health, reducing stigma and providing preventative programming to increase student success, retention and a sense of belonging.”
Key Programs and Initiatives
Stockton’s application showcased a number of programs that contribute to its supportive environment:
- First Ospreys: A program designed to support first-generation students, helping them navigate college life and achieve graduation.
- Uwill Program: Provides students with immediate access to 24/7/365 teletherapy appointments for mental health support.
- Collegiate Recovery Program: Offers a support system for students who are in recovery or at risk for substance use.
- Alton Mental Health Initiatives Fund: This fund provides financial backing for events like the annual Mental Health Fair and the IMALIVE Fair, which focuses on suicide prevention. It also supports a peer mental health mentoring program.
- Cultural Engagement Operations Project: This initiative provides student interns with opportunities to develop career readiness skills and increase their political and intellectual awareness.
The award’s publisher, Lenore Pearlstein, praised the recipients, stating, “We are proud to honor these colleges and universities as role models for other institutions of higher education.” She noted that institutions are not always recognized for their dedication to mental health services and support.
This recognition highlights Stockton’s comprehensive approach to mental health, from providing immediate crisis support to long-term preventative and educational programming for its entire community.
