Mission and experience

Now more than ever, we need to recognize the significant contribution that college health centers across the state provide for the academic, personal and future success of their students. With the significant budget cuts the state educational system is facing, we need to demonstrate the importance of student support services in the overall mission of the 108 community colleges in the state of California. At a recent Board of Governors meeting in Sacramento, Santa Barbara City College Student Health Services and Wellness Program was one of six community colleges recognized with the State Exemplary Program Award. This was a significant acknowledgement that the health of our students and the services provided by all California Community Colleges plays a significant role in student success. Student health centers across the state are in jeopardy as budget cuts and elimination of student fees are being discussed. The following program description can be found if you View site which has health topics and essays, it will give you an example of how important it is to maintain health services in our college system. College health services have a unique role on college campuses. Physical and emotional health and behavioral choices play an increasing role on academic, social and public health issues leading to the need to integrate both clinical and health education/prevention strategies for campus programs and services. Programs and services need to address student’s realization and maintenance of complex issues of optimal physical, emotional, intellectual, social, environmental and spiritual health. Medical and counseling services along with strong health education and prevention programs are the key elements of our comprehensive scope of health services. SHSWP addresses the many critical health issues facing today’s college student that include alcohol, tobacco and drug abuse, eating disorders, sexual health issues, stress management, health advocacy and a myriad of other health issues.