The University of Memphis has begun a new campus-wide initiative, “Healthier New Century,” designed to encourage U of M students, faculty, and staff to eat more healthful foods and to get more exercise, as well as to respect each other’s right to breathe clean air on the campus.  Healthier New Century will begin officially during the Student Health Fair on the Student Plaza on Wednesday, October 5th. 

The ultimate mission of Healthier New Century is to ensure that everyone associated with the U of M community enjoys a healthier life.  As the project goes forward, the University will promote exercise by encouraging the use of stairs instead of elevators, the use of walking trails on and around campus, and the use of bicycles as personal transportation whenever possible.  A healthy diet will be promoted by showcasing healthful food options available at campus dining sites, by disseminating information about how to eat a healthful diet, and by identifying foods that contribute to good health.

Healthier New Century was developed in response to student-generated requests for a tobacco-free-campus policy.  In 2010, the Student Government Association passed a resolution petitioning the University to become a tobacco-free campus. The Faculty Senate and Staff Senate later passed similar resolutions.  With the full support of U of M President Shirley Raines, the University, through the Healthier New Century initiative, plans to be a tobacco-free campus by next summer.

The Student Health Fair, which will begin at 10 a.m. and last till 2 p.m., will also feature health screenings, informational exhibits of ways to enhance health and wellness, healthful food, and door prizes.  Exercise as a contributor to good health will be highlighted by classes for zumba, cycling, and kick-boxing, and with displays of exercise equipment for fair-goers to try out.

Beginning at 7 a.m. the morning of the Health Fair, a free three-mile fun-run/walk will take place on campus.

For more information about the Student Health Fair, or to register for the run, call 678-4745.