The University of Colorado Boulder’s Faculty and Staff Assistance Program (FSAP) is contributing to employee well-being by addressing mental health challenges, fostering inclusivity, and driving systemic change. Through new initiatives and collaborative efforts, FSAP continues to expand access to vital resources and reshape workplace culture to support CU Boulder’s diverse faculty and staff. 

Cultivating Belonging: CU Cultural Collective 

In June 2024, FSAP counselor Carla Eugene, MS, LPC spearheaded the launch of the CU Cultural Collective (CCC), a bold initiative aimed at enhancing connection and belonging for faculty and staff of color. Recognizing that traditional mental health services often underserve racially marginalized groups, the CCC fosters engagement through culturally responsive programming. Supported by the DEI Impact Grant from the Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Office, this initiative empowers BIPOC employees and advances a healthier, more inclusive campus environment. 

Since its launch, the CCC has hosted events that bring BIPOC faculty and staff together for community-building and resource sharing. Featuring a distinguished panel of speakers, these gatherings provide opportunities to discuss challenges, celebrate achievements, and explore strategies for personal and professional empowerment. The CCC also organizes monthly Colorful Women Coffee Chats, creating a welcoming space for women of color to network, engage in uplifting dialogues, and learn stress management techniques tailored to their unique experiences. With tiered funding from the grant, FSAP is working to make this transformative program a permanent part of CU Boulder’s health and wellness offerings. 

Expanding Access: A Year of Growth for FSAP 

In the 2024 fiscal year, FSAP achieved significant milestones in increasing access to mental health care for CU employees. By providing an impressive 2,604 counseling sessions—a 5% increase over the previous year—and engaging 1,668 participants in workshops and presentations (a 27% rise), FSAP delivered nearly $400,000 worth of services at no cost to faculty and staff. 

This success reflects FSAP’s growing reputation as a trusted campus resource. Anecdotal evidence shows that positive exposure to FSAP increases referrals from campus leaders, underscoring its role in strengthening the university’s well-being infrastructure. This upward trend highlights a commitment to addressing the unique challenges of employees in academia, from burnout to work-life balance. 

Innovations in Accessibility: Digital Transformation 

In partnership with the Digital Accessibility Office (DAO) and Student Affairs Marketing and Communications team, FSAP completed a comprehensive audit of its digital platforms. By implementing all recommended improvements, FSAP has ensured its services are accessible to employees with disabilities, creating a more inclusive and user-friendly experience for all. These updates mark a critical step in making mental health resources available to everyone in the CU Boulder community. 

Empowering Women of Color: The Return of the Colorful Women Group 

In its second year, the continued to make a profound impact on BIPOC faculty and staff at CU Boulder. Providing a safe, supportive space for dialogue, connection, and empowerment, the group fosters community through meaningful discussions on topics such as race, gender, stress management, and professional growth. 

One participant shared, “The 'Colorful Women' group is the first space at CU Boulder where I felt safe to show up as my full self. My emotional and mental health greatly benefited from the conversations and connections I made here.” 

Survey results reinforce the group’s success: 

• 94.1% of participants agreed their initial goals for attending the group were achieved. 

• 82.3% reported learning healthy ways to cope with stress as women of color. 

• 94.1% agreed that their overall well-being improved by participating in the group. 

The overwhelmingly positive feedback highlights the Colorful Women Group’s ability to foster resilience, belonging, and a greater sense of community for underrepresented voices on campus. By offering this space, FSAP demonstrates its commitment to creating inclusive programs that help faculty and staff thrive. 

Changing the Conversation on Burnout 

FSAP’s insights have been part of a university-wide shift in how CU Boulder approaches burnout. Drawing on data and research, FSAP has helped reframe burnout as a systemic issue influenced by workplace culture, resources, and structure rather than just an individual challenge. This holistic understanding informs strategies to create healthier work environments across campus. 

Collaborating with departments to implement changes such as clearer expectations, fairer practices, and stronger workplace connections, FSAP empowers employees and workplaces to become engines for mental health and well-being. National studies show that , and CU Boulder is embracing these findings to build a culture of well-being and resilience. 

A Vision for the Future 

FSAP’s accomplishments reflect its unwavering commitment to supporting CU Boulder’s faculty and staff. From enhancing digital accessibility to launching innovative programs like the CU Cultural Collective, FSAP is shaping a workplace where every employee feels valued, respected, and empowered. With its data-driven strategies and forward-thinking approach, FSAP is setting the standard for fostering mental health and well-being in academia. 

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Embedded throughout the University of Colorado Boulder, the Health Promotion office is redefining how a university can foster student, faculty, and staff well-being. By focusing on accessibility, equity, education, collaboration, peer support, and innovation, the team has built a foundation for a healthier, more connected campus. Here’s how their efforts over the past year have transformed the CU Boulder community. 

Enhancing Accessibility to �ƹ���Ƶ 

The Health Promotion office works to reduce barriers to wellness resources for students, staff and faculty. Through their Buff Boxes initiative, more than 1,600 resource kits were delivered directly to students, equipping them with tools for managing illness, stress, sexual health and harm reduction. Additionally, the team distributed nearly 5,000 fentanyl test strips and more than 3,400 doses of naloxone, providing life-saving tools to address the opioid crisis on campus through targeted outreach to high-risk populations and reducing stigma related to accessing these resources. 

The team also launched the , an innovative and interactive tool that centralizes information about wellness services and programs from over 50 departments across campus. This resource simplifies navigation of health services for students, staff, and faculty while offering administrators a strategic lens to address gaps and duplication in wellness initiatives. 

Promoting Education and Awareness 

Education is a key tenant of Health Promotion’s mission. Over the past year, the team provided 138 presentations, reaching more than 6,700 participants on topics such as mental health, substance use, and harm reduction. These presentations don’t just provide information—they equip attendees with practical strategies to improve their own well-being and support others. 

Health Promotion is a leader in early intervention among universities, offering an extensive continuum of mandated and voluntary early intervention options, including programs like Buffs Discuss Substance Use  and Sidewalk Talks. These programs have a measurable impact. Post-event evaluation indicates that 93% of participants were able to identify useful resources, and 97% planned to follow through on their wellness goals after the conversations. In addition, 99% of participants reported that reflecting on their substance use would influence their future experiences.   

The team’s educational efforts also extend to large-scale trainings, where 96.5% of attendees reported gaining new knowledge and 98.3% found the sessions engaging and relevant. By incorporating participant feedback into future programming, Health Promotion ensures that its educational initiatives remain effective, responsive, and impactful.  

Building Community and Collaboration 

Health Promotion’s initiatives demonstrate that well-being is a shared responsibility. Their Late Night Programming collaboration, in partnership with the Center for Student Involvement and Fraternity and Sorority Life, provided fun and educational alternatives to late-night parties. More than 22 events attracted more than 1,200 students, often highlighting information about stress management, alcohol and other drug harm reduction, and self-care. Community-building efforts also included the Take Care Street Fair, a lively event during Parent and Family Weekend that drew more than 1,000 attendees and highlighted departments across CU.  Featuring activities like painting  pumpkins for self-care, peer-to-peer brief coaching conversations, and health trivia, the fair underscored the variety of resources available to support CU’s diverse population. 

Fostering Peer-to-Peer Support 

The office’s peer-led initiatives create a sense of trust and relatability. Sidewalk Talks, which provided more than 360 casual wellness conversations, achieved a remarkable 97% satisfaction rate. Students valued the approachable format, which allowed them to reflect, set goals, and access resources in a low-pressure setting. 

The Health Promotion peer educators have also emerged as a cornerstone of CU Boulder’s wellness efforts. These student leaders delivered outreach at events, late-night programs, and trainings, ensuring that thousands of students received critical health and wellness information.  

Additionally, the CU Collegiate Recovery Community (CRC) is also part of Health Promotion and offers community and peer connections for those in or seeking recovery. The CRC is ranked as a top 10 Collegiate Recovery Program in the nation. It offers recovery meetings, social events, on-campus sober housing, and the recovery friendly workplace initiative. 

 A Vision for the Future 

CU Boulder’s Health Promotion office is shaping a healthier, more connected future for its community. Through innovation, collaboration, and a relentless commitment to accessibility, the team is ensuring that every student, staff and faculty member has the tools and support they need to thrive. 

Looking ahead, the office plans to expand initiatives like the Campus Well-Being Systems Map, create tools for campus policymakers to consider health impacts, and deepen their collaborations across campus. With their continued dedication, CU Boulder is well on its way to becoming a national leader in campus health and wellness. 

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At the University of Colorado Boulder, Counseling and Psychiatric Services (CAPS) is pioneering new approaches to campus mental health, reshaping how students access and experience support. With a focus on accessibility, innovation, and inclusivity, CAPS is setting a standard for mental health care in higher education. 

Expanding Access to Care 

In its mission to create an equitable mental health care environment, CAPS has launched initiatives designed to meet the needs of underserved populations. Among these is the Multicultural Care Track, tailored to students who hold historically marginalized identities or those navigating challenges like being under-insured. The program provides personalized, long-term care, ensuring students receive affordable and culturally responsive support that might otherwise be inaccessible off campus. 

The impact is clear: between 2022 and 2023, utilization of these services surged by 110%, underscoring the program’s success in addressing systemic inequities. By prioritizing inclusivity, CAPS is fostering a more welcoming and supportive environment for all students. 

Tackling Emerging Challenges with Innovation 

In 2023, CAPS introduced a series of innovative programs targeting specific student needs: 

Problem Gambling Programming 

Addressing the rise of legalized sports betting, CAPS launched a groundbreaking initiative to support students grappling with gambling addiction. With only 5% of U.S. college campuses equipped to handle this issue, CAPS leads the charge by integrating screening tools, hosting outreach events, and partnering with CU’s Collegiate Recovery Community. This comprehensive approach provides critical resources for a growing yet under-addressed concern. 

Acudetox Pilot Program 

Combining evidence-based practices and holistic care, CAPS debuted Acudetox, a program aimed at reducing anxiety, improving sleep, and helping students manage trauma. Available in multiple locations across Health & Wellness, Acudetox has quickly gained popularity and reflects a growing demand for alternative mental health strategies. 

Graduate Student Resilience Workshops 

Recognizing the unique pressures faced by graduate students, CAPS launched a workshop series called “Rebound: Cultivating a Practice of Emotional Resilience.” Thise three-day program has proven transformative—one in four participants pursued additional CAPS services, highlighting its lasting impact. 

Collaboration Drives Comprehensive Care 

CAPS extends its reach through strategic partnerships across campus, creating a seamless network of support for CU Boulder students: 

Psychiatric Consultation Services 

Working with CU Athletics, Wardenburg Health Center, and Sexual and Reproductive Health units, CAPS has streamlined psychiatric consultations. This collaborative approach allows students to access high quality psychiatric care without extra appointments, breaking down barriers to essential resources. 

Crisis Co-Responder Program 

In partnership with the CU Police Department, CAPS introduced a mental health clinician into crisis response calls. The co-responder’s presence on mental health police calls has reduced hospitalizations by 50%, ensuring timely and compassionate care during critical moments. 

Investing in the Next Generation of Mental Health Professionals 

As a nationally recognized training site, CAPS is shaping the future of mental health care by training emerging professionals. Every year, 14 clinicians-in-training join CAPS across five distinct programs, providing additional capacity to serve students and offer more expanded services.  

The Human Impact 

At its heart, CAPS is about people. Whether helping a student overcome cultural stigma to access therapy, supporting athletes through collaborative psychiatric care, or guiding graduate students in resilience workshops, CAPS makes a profound difference every day. 

This impact is measurable: more than 80% of students who considered leaving CU Boulder reported that attending a session with CAPS influenced their decision to stay. By providing timely, compassionate, and effective support, CAPS is not just redefining mental health care at CU Boulder—it’s setting an example for universities nationwide. 

For more information about CAPS and its services, visit their website. If you’re a student in need of support, CAPS is here to help. 

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Boulder, November 21, 2024 — The American Heart Association, a global force for longer, healthier lives for all, has awarded CU Boulder Gold level recognition in the 2024 , representing a notable commitment to the health of its workforce and community. 

Built on the Association’s 100-year history of saving and improving lives, the Scorecard brings together emerging research and input from leading experts to help employers create a healthy and effective work environment. Organizations can earn a recognition level of Bronze, Silver, Gold or Platinum based on their adherence to the Association’s science-backed recommendations. Gold level practices include areas such as health equity, burnout prevention, compensation and benefits and more. 

The commitment from CU leadership to prioritize faculty and staff well-being spans multiple departments and units across schools and colleges on campus. A few highlights from the Scorecard include recognition of CU Boulder’s policies related to physical and mental health, access to benefits and utilization of employee programs. It is estimated that around 30% of CU Boulder employees are using services and/or attending programs and events offered through Health and Wellness. 

“The well-being of faculty and staff is foundational to student success. Educators and support staff who feel supported, balanced and engaged are more likely to create positive learning environments, model resilience and show up fully for their students. The Scorecard gives us an in-depth look at our well-being strategy with valuable insights to help us best support our workforce and foster a campus-wide strategy” said Chief Wellness Officer Dr. Jessica Doty. 

“We’re proud to recognize organizations like University of Colorado Boulder that have made bold moves to build workplaces where everyone can thrive,” said American Heart Association CEO Nancy Brown. “By completing the Well-being Works Better Scorecard, these leaders have shown an incredible dedication to the health of their businesses and communities, and their contributions are helping us bring to fruition a world of longer, healthier lives for all.” 

The American Heart Association’s Well-being Works Better is a curated solution for fostering and evolving a healthy work culture while supporting employees’ health—mind, heart and body. The Well-being Works Better Scorecard helps leaders assess their health and well-being strategy based on leading best practices. On completion, organizations receive access to a results dashboard with exclusive industry benchmarking data and resources for continued learning and improvement. 

Visit to learn more and view the full list of recognized employers. 

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Discover four essential truths about leadership and personal growth that can transform how you approach success, challenges, and making a lasting impact.

Leadership isn’t given, it’s earned.

Leadership isn’t determined by a single moment or title change. It’s developed gradually through consistent actions and decisions. It’s about the small, everyday choices that accumulate over time to create a lasting impact. Embracing patience and perseverance is crucial – but instead of focusing on the long road ahead, look at this way: Every day presents opportunities to lead, regardless of where you sit on an org chart.

Leadership is an inclusive quality that everyone can embody. Each person has the potential to influence and inspire those around them, fostering a culture of mutual respect and collaboration. By recognizing and seizing daily opportunities to lead, individuals can contribute to a more positive and productive environment. Leadership is a shared responsibility, and when embraced by all, it can drive meaningful change. When everybody leads, everybody wins.

Learn how CU Boulder drives positive change through the shared leadership model.

Progress is better than perfection. 

Perfectionism is surprisingly counterproductive. Studies show that striving for flawlessness doesn't equate to a superior outcome or better performance. In fact, it often hinders productivity, as individuals fixated on perfection tend to spend excessive time on minute details, reducing overall efficiency. The relentless pursuit of perfection also leads to chronic stress, anxiety, and a persistent sense of inadequacy. Researchers have found that , making them more susceptible to psychological distress when faced with failure or setbacks.

While there are instances where perfection is crucial—patient care, air traffic control, nuclear power plant operations, automobile repair, etc... Being able to determine when it's needed, versus when it’s not, is the first step to reclaiming your sanity. Instead of focusing on perfect outcomes, prioritize getting things done. Embrace mistakes as valuable learning opportunities and challenge negative thoughts with self-reflection and compassion. By shifting to a mindset of progress over perfection, you can foster a healthier, more productive approach to both personal and professional endeavors. 

Three tips to help you overcome the pressure to be perfect.

Everyone needs feedback.

Feedback can spark uneasy feelings, often because we focus on the process instead of the intended outcome—growth. By shifting our mindset from seeing feedback as fear-inducing to viewing it as a beneficial and constructive process, we can transform its impact.

Constructive criticism, whether from mentors, peers, or a significant other, offers invaluable insights into opportunities for growth that might otherwise go unnoticed. It encourages individuals to look forward, envision their future capabilities, and take actionable steps towards their goals. It’s worth noting that how or when we receive feedback isn’t entirely in our control, but what we do with that feedback is.

Organizations also thrive when they cultivate a culture of feedback. Encouraging open and honest communication within teams leads to higher employee engagement, improved performance, and increased job satisfaction. When employees feel their voices are heard and their contributions are valued, they’re more likely to take ownership of their work and strive for excellence. 

Success is subjective.

Success is often portrayed as a universal concept defined by wealth, status, and societal approval. But the truth is that it’s highly subjective and personal. There is no universal benchmark for success. What brings fulfillment and joy to one person might not resonate with another. Success should be measured by individual values and aspirations, not someone else’s standards.

Embracing this autonomy allows us to pursue paths that genuinely make us happy, whether that's through creative endeavors, entrepreneurial ventures, or making a positive impact in our communities. These paths might involve trial and error, but each step brings you closer to what truly matters to you. Celebrate your achievements, big and small, and remember that your happiness is the ultimate measure of success. By embracing the subjective nature of success, you empower yourself to create a more authentic and meaningful life.

Learn how CU Boulder can help support employees on their path to success. 

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We often equate being productive with long hours, constant busyness, and high output. However, this "more is better" mindset overlooks the core elements of a fulfilling work life—job satisfaction, collaboration, and creativity. Fortunately, a growing body of research reveals that shifting our focus from sheer productivity to a more human-centered approach can unlock greater success and happiness for both employees and businesses.

Nurturing Employee Well-Being: The Key to Lasting Success

The challenges of burnout and mental health concerns are real, but they also highlight a tremendous opportunity for improvement. When companies recognize the importance of employee well-being, they unlock a pathway to not only healthier teams but also stronger performance. Studies suggest that fostering a work environment that values mental health can lead to more engaged employees, reduced turnover, and a positive ripple effect throughout the organization. By prioritizing well-being, we can create a thriving workforce that is more resilient, productive, and capable of sustaining long-term success.

See how CU Boulder is embracing employee well-being.

Sparking Creativity and Innovation

When employees are encouraged to balance productivity with creativity, remarkable things happen. Businesses that create space for new ideas and innovative thinking can achieve greater success than those that focus solely on efficiency. In fact, companies that prioritize creativity achieve revenue growth and market share than their competitors. By fostering an environment where creativity can flourish, teams are empowered to explore bold ideas, take risks, and contribute to innovation—ultimately driving growth and adaptability in an ever-evolving market.

Did you know about the Innovation and Entrepreneurship Initiative at CU Boulder?

Celebrating Individuality: The Power of Strengths-Based Leadership

Every employee brings unique strengths and talents to the table, and when those individual contributions are recognized and celebrated, the impact is profound. According to , companies that adopt a strengths-based management approach are 17% more productive and 21% more profitable. When employees feel valued for their unique abilities, they become more engaged, motivated, and committed to their roles. This positive work culture not only boosts morale but also drives higher performance and propels organizational growth.

CU Boulder helps faculty and staff identify their strengths with the CliftonStrengths Introduction seminar.

Embracing a Human-Centric Model for Sustainable Success

The industrial-era model of productivity no longer serves the complex and dynamic needs of today’s workforce. Instead, businesses that shift towards a human-centric model—one that values well-being, creativity, and individuality—are positioned to achieve sustainable success. With the support of CU Boulder's Human �ƹ���Ƶ team, we’ve transformed these concepts into actionable steps by pinpointing .

By fostering a positive employee experience, companies can build a workplace where employees not only excel but also find joy and fulfillment in their work. This holistic approach to productivity creates a win-win scenario: happier employees and stronger organizational outcomes.

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