About the Mindful University Project
The Mindful University Project is a campus-wide initiative offered through Health Promotion with a mission to empower our campus community to build a culture of mindful presence and compassion to:
- improve mental well-being;
- boost academic flourishing;
- increase resiliency to stress; and
- reduce levels of anxiety and depression.
What we do
Our goal is to create a safe and inclusive space for all students, staff, and faculty to learn and engage in mindfulness through:
Drop-in meditation sittings
Half-day silent retreats
Contemplative practices including yoga, walking meditation, and mindful outdoor experiences
Faculty and staff training
Educational workshops
Why do we do it?
We recognize the today’s students face increasing academic, personal, financial, and social pressures while navigating a world filled with constant distractions and competing demands. These challenges can make it difficult to be present, build meaningful connections, and care for one’s well-being. . According to the 2026 National College Health Assessment (n=710 students):
- 19.7% of University of Rochester student respondents reported severe psychological distress within the previous 30 days.
- Approximately 37.7% of respondents said stress has either negatively impacted their performance in a class or has delayed progress towards their degree.
- 44.6% of student respondents screened positive for loneliness.
- Only 11.3% of students reported that they felt rested 6-7 days within the previous week.
We acknowledge that student well-being is shaped by the people, relationships, and environments that surround them. While our work is student-centered, we recognize that students are best supported by a campus community that values and promotes well-being. Faculty, staff, advisors, healthcare providers, and peers all play an important role in creating a culture where students feel well, connected, and supported.
For this reason, our work extends beyond direct student programming. We equip faculty and staff with training, resources, and opportunities to support both their own well-being and the well-being of the students they serve. We also provide students with opportunities to learn and practice mindfulness while partnering across campus to cultivate environments that promote well-being, belonging, compassion, and resilience. By strengthening both the people and the places that shape the student experience, we help build a healthier, more supportive campus community.
Our leadership team
Read about the Mindful University Project’s leadership team, mindfulness teachers, and student employees.