UPUA’s annual Mental Health and Wellness Week will take place November 13 to 16. The week will feature a variety of events centered around keeping students healthy and happy throughout their college careers and beyond.

Though the initiative has come a long way in addressing mental health concerns, UPUA hopes to build on the foundation set in previous years.

“Although we’ve done great work in the past, we are still working to end the stigma (of mental health) by continuing to hold weeks like this,” UPUA Student Life Chair Kyleigh Higie said.

UPUA has also partnered with student organizations like the Student Athlete Advisory Board and Students With Schizophrenia to continue these efforts. This year’s event will focus on body positivity and wellness, but still address general mental health concerns.

Here’s what you can look forward to:

Monday, Nov. 13: Keynote featuring Amber Krzys and Joey Julius

7 p.m. | Freeman Auditorium 

Amber Krzys is the founder of the Bodyheart Campaign, an organization that focuses on body positivity. Joey Julius is the former kicker for the Penn State football team who has become a mental health advocate. The two will take the stage to share their own unique experiences.

Tuesday, Nov. 14: Bodyheart Campaign Photoshoot and Yoga Class

Time TBA | HUB and IM Building 

Krzys will come back to the HUB to help host a Bodyheart Campiagn Photoshoot to highlight what students love about themselves. Additional activities will take place on the Ground Floor Stage, and the yoga class will take place in the IM Building.

Wednesday, Nov. 15: Collegiate Recovery Community and Active Minds Panel

6 p.m. | Hetzel Lounge, HUB

Along with the panel, various other activities will take place throughout the day. UPUA will help students plant flowers in cups in the HUB, and participants can use the photo backdrop for pictures and ribbon tying.

Thursday, Nov. 16: Mental Health and Wellness Gala featuring Mike Veny

5 p.m. | Hintz Family Alumni Center

The Gala will feature Mike Veny, a well-known mental health speaker who was listed as one of the “100 Most Influential People in the Health Care Industry.” You can get tickets here.