Purpose
The purpose of the Student Wellness Advisory Group (SWAG) is to engage student voices to help shape the health and wellness programs, services and policies of the Student Health and Wellness Center (SHAW) to ensure they are relevant, responsive and accessible to UWM students. To achieve this, the group offers recommendations and feedback, shares student perspectives, and fosters collaborative dialogue.
Guiding Principles
The group operates under the following principles:
- Meaningful and respectful student engagement
- Diverse and inclusive representation
- Transparency in communication
- Commitment to enhancing student well-being
Responsibilities of the Student Wellness Advisory Group
- Review materials as needed (e.g., student experience data, policy, messaging, etc.)
- Identify gaps in service awareness or accessibility
- Advise and provide feedback on communication strategies, messaging, materials and outreach campaigns
- Advise and provide feedback about projects or initiatives
- Ensure that student health and wellness priorities and needs are accurately represented
- Provide student-centered insight and suggestions on SHAW policies
Expectations of Members
- Serve in an advising capacity
- Attend scheduled meetings in person (typically 4/semester, 90 minutes each)
- Be prepared for discussions by reviewing provided materials in advance of meetings (30-45 minutes)
- Engage fully in discussions
- Respectfully provide constructive feedback
- Share perspectives of the broader student population whenever possible
Organizational Structure
Student Membership Composition
SWAG will consist of approximately 10 undergraduate and graduate students of diverse academic majors, year in school, cultural and social backgrounds, and lived experiences.
Term Length
Members are expected to serve a minimum of 2 consecutive semesters with the option for renewal.
Recruitment Strategies
Recruitment for SWAG will be intentional, equitable, and far reaching through:
- Partnership with student organizations, cultural centers and identity-based groups
- Outreach to academic departments
- Use of peer networks
- Campus-wide communication
- Incentives such as stipends
Staff Leadership
A SHAW Administrative Council member and an additional SHAW staff will provide leadership and administrative support to ensure alignment with departmental priorities.
Meeting Frequency
The group will meet monthly during the academic year. Special meetings may be scheduled as needed.