August 27, 2015

Lewis & Clark recognized for commitment to a healthy student body

As new and returning students alike prepare for the start of the fall semester, Lewis & Clark is committed to providing an environment where every member of our community has the resources to be happy, healthy, and successful.

This week, Lewis & Clark was recognized for these efforts, earning distinction as one of only 25 schools on The Greatist’s 2015 list of healthiest colleges and universities in America.

“When putting together our list,” said The Greatist, an online publication focused on fresh perspectives on health and wellness, “we looked for schools that go above and beyond to create an environment where students have access to an array of healthy food, top-notch fitness facilities, and robust medical and mental health services.”

About Lewis & Clark, the article said this:

“Step foot on this campus in southern Portland, and you can’t help but want to spend time in the great outdoors. The campus includes 95 forested acres and miles of hiking trails. The school has made a name for itself with its sustainability program—it topped The Princeton Review’s list of green colleges this year. Many of the sustainability initiatives are integrally connected to helping students live healthier lives. In recent years, the school has promoted its bike-friendly campus, which includes a student-operated bike co-op to make repairs a cinch. When it comes to dining, the college ensures that at least one third of the food served is organically grown or locally sourced. The college also has dramatically reduced food waste by adding composting bins to the dining halls, and students can grab smaller bins for off-campus housing.

Speaking about the ranking, Dean of Students Anna Gonzalez said, “At Lewis & Clark, we’re constantly looking at ways to support the mental, physical, and overall health of our students, because one’s health plays a sizable role in having a positive and successful college experience. We’re proud to make this list and grateful for all the faculty and staff efforts that go into sustaining a healthy campus environment.”

The only Oregon school named by The Greatist—and one of only two institutions in the Pacific Northwest to make the list—Lewis & Clark first appeared in the ranking in 2012.  

Health Promotion and Wellness Sustainability College Outdoors