Building on the University of Kentucky’s (UK) commitment to student success, Dr. Corrine Williams was tapped in January 2021 to help lead student well-being efforts on campus as the acting associate vice president for student well-being in the Office for Student Success.
After two years of addressing student health needs and with successful outcomes in this role, Dr. Williams has accepted the role of associate vice president for student well-being in the Office for Student Success on a permanent basis.
“I’m honored to continue leading the University’s efforts in addressing mental health and student well-being on campus,” says Williams. “UK is like operating a small health department when you have approximately 32,000 students and approximately 600 student organizations. We must continue in creating a point of connection for our students and helping them find their place and purpose on campus.”
In this role, Dr. Williams will continue to lead the strategic initiatives dedicated to student wellness and overseeing these units:
Williams believes the university continues to be on the leading edge with servicing the mental health needs of its population. Students are still carrying more anxiety and stressors than in prior academic cycles, however it starts in identifying and acknowledging that help is needed.
“It’s okay to admit that ‘I’m not okay,” says Williams. “With mental health, you need to ask for help. People need intervention and support. That is why we are here. Show up and start with us.”
TRACS is the new “one-stop shop” where students can come for a quick referral to support services or receive direct clinical support for a range of mental health needs and crises. Services are offered in person and virtually, Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Visit go.uky.edu/tracs.
Access to the student health and well-being services is free for all UK students.
“We are working hard to meet every single need for our students and meeting them where they are,” says Williams. “This is a safe place, and everyone is welcome here.”
After engaging with these health and well-being services, UK students on average are showing stronger academic performance, which is part of Student Well-Being's mission — developing academically successful students through engagement and collaboration while improving overall health behaviors.
The University of Kentucky is committed to taking care of our people, and that means ensuring all members of our community — inclusive of all identities, perspectives, and experiences – have the support needed to overcome challenges and cope with stress.
If you are experiencing feelings of anxiety, sadness, or uncertainty, or struggling with any aspect of your health and well-being, UK has resources available for you here.
Dr. Corrine Williams is a tenured faculty member in UK’s Department of Health, Behavior & Society in the College of Public Health. She also holds a faculty appointment in UK’s Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology in the UK College of Medicine.
