Washburn University hosted a Wellness Fair on April 1 at Memorial Union in Washburn A/B. The event featured booths from college departments and local resources, allowing students and faculty staff to connect with services available in Topeka.

The event had multiple booths with activities like fitness challenges, 3D VR games, interactions and demonstrations such as Brazilian Jiu Jitsu.

Evelyn Spangler, wellness coordinator, emphasizes that wellness encompasses more than just physical well-being, highlighting the inclusion of business and financial resources, eSports and nutrition. 

“I am really big on, personally, in my career, making sure people know wellness is more than just fitness and nutrition,” Spangler said. “I want to make sure I select things that represent Topeka and represent the wholeness of wellness….. So those are important.”

Spangler explained financial wellness, mental health, recreation and physical fitness play a role in overall wellbeing. Students were actively engaged with a variety of booths, including fitness activities and grip strength challenges. 

“I like the games where you can win prizes,” said Gabriel Hoskins, freshman, sports management major. 

Hoskins added that such events help students to build a sense of community.

“We’re doing balance exercises and grip strength, so it’s a way for people to interact with the Rec without even going to the gym,” said Addison Leal, junior forensic investigation major. 

Leal suggested the event could have been better. 

“I think it could have been advertised better because there’s not a ton of people here,” Leal said.

The event featured various wellness resources from different organizations and businesses around campus and off-campus. Participants were able to explore different activities related to wellness, encouraging healthy lifestyle, spreading awareness and encouragement. This event brought together the Topeka community and the Ichabods for a day filled with wellness and recreation.

Edited by Bidhya Sapkota and Stuti Khadka