December 8, 2021
Looking Back. Looking Ahead.
 
We are in a season of transition: from fall to winter, one calendar year to another, and the end of one academic semester drawing to a close and another one starting. People across the world view periods of transition in different ways: sometimes as roadblocks which require a full-stop and time for reflection, sometimes as hurdles to be overcome through struggle and learning, and sometimes as springboards to launch us to our next great adventure. In many cases, transition can be all three of these things mashed into one.

In this time of fall courses ending, leaves falling from trees, and the dawn of New Year, it is my hope for all Profs that we are able to take a moment to reflect on all that we accomplished this semester. Maybe you really struggled in a course but gained valuable insight into your learning style. Perhaps you suffered a loss and in-turn discovered the deep strength, love, and support of the family and friends around you. Possibly, you may have stepped out of your own comfort zone and discovered a talent or affinity you had never tapped into before. Regardless of your lived experiences this semester, as we look to finish this semester strong, I encourage each of us to set an intention for the future, drawing on the lessons we have learned from our past. Look how far we have come, Profs, and let’s join one another in embracing all the opportunities that are headed our way!

-Debbie Scheibler, E.d.D.
Director - Residential Learning & University Housing
We recognize that many are mourning the loss of Rowan community members including faculty, staff, and students the past couple months. It is a challenging time for many of us as we finish the semester. Please give yourself the time and space to tend to your stress, grief, and emotions. Know that Rowan has resources to help. Reach out to individuals who are there to support you, and reach out to professionals when in crisis.
The Wellness Center is offering in-person, drop-in support for students and faculty/staff today Wednesday, December 8th from 1 - 3 p.m. at the Wellness Center at Winans Hall. Individuals should come to the front desk and identify themselves as wishing to utilize the drop-in support. Students can also schedule individual, virtual, drop-in support sessions at: https://studenthealth.rowan.edu
SHARE WITH US
Please share with us what you are looking forward to during winter break to support your well-being. Keep in mind your physical, social, emotional, financial, purpose and community well-being dimensions. Your submission could also be a friendly reminder to the thousands of readers of the Strive to Thrive newsletter to also consider self-care strategies or actions to serve the well-being of their communities. Don't hesitate to email us at rowanthrive@rowan.edu.
EMOTIONAL
12/8 - 12/9: 10 p.m. - 6 a.m.
Chamberlain Student Center

Your favorite end of semester de-stress event is back and just in time for finals.

The Student Center will remain open throughout the night! Enjoy a relaxing evening with free massages, food, mellow music, & study rooms.

12/13 & 12/14: 4 - 7 p.m.
Recreation Center Lobby

Take a study break and visit the Rec Center Lobby for coffee, tea, hot cocoa, and snacks. Plus share some words of encouragement with your fellow profs- we can get through the end of the semester together.
Friday, 12/10: 11 a.m. - 2 p.m.
Recreation Center Lobby

Taking care of plants, even ones as simple as succulents, can increase feelings of well-being and help improve self-care. Take a moment for yourself to decorate your own potted plant. We will offer the first 100 students all of the supplies needed to decorate a 2 inch pot for your succulent.  
24/7 peer support for mental health

Togetherall is an online mental health peer support community, 24/7. All interactions through Togetherall are anonymous and supervised by licensed mental health practitioners. Students can visit www.togetherall.com using your Rowan email to register.
PHYSICAL
12/8 - 12/17

Stress less with group fitness classes.

Whether it's to get your sweat on or find something to calm you, there is something for everyone. In-person and virtual formats available.

Classes are free for all students and members.
Campus Rec App - Apple & Google Play
Social media @rowancampusrec
Listen to experts discuss lingering symptoms and challenges from individuals that contracted COVID-19.
Optimize your brain health by choosing healthy and nutrious food. Learn more about antioxidants, caffeine, omega-3 fatty acids, creatine, and resveratrol.
SOCIAL
Various shows available until 12/18

Look to the skies with the Edelman Planetarium! We offer live stargazing and immersive 360-degree video on our digital sky. To keep up with the Planetarium's latest events, shows and updates, follow us on Facebook and Twitter. And don't forget to sign up for our newsletter, The Cosmic Times!
COMMUNITY

Rowan employees and students enjoy waived registration fees and a 10% discount on lessons for themselves, their spouses, or their children. Study music with our world-renowned faculty through our very own community school Currently enrolling students of all ages for music lessons, classes, and ensembles on all instruments and voice.

The Division of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion is proud to present the Virtual DEI Certificate Program, a professional development opportunity that provides foundational knowledge and skills in advancing diversity, equity and inclusion. This program is an excellent enhancement to your personal and professional development. Register here.

According to earth.org, the biggest problems that our world is facing are: poor governance, food waste, plastic pollution, air pollution and agriculture.

These are just a handful of some problems that we are facing, but as the next generation of this planet, it is now up to us to do as much as we can in order to (literally) try to save the world. One can consider Rowan University as our own small community. That being said, it is important that we take as much care of this community as possible. READ MORE.
FINANCIAL

The SHOP Food Pantry at Rowan will be closed on the Friday after Thanksgiving (Nov 26), Christmas Eve (Dec 24), and New Year's Eve (Dec 31) - all of which are on a Friday this year.
The Philabundance/Fresh For All weekly produce giveaway will also be canceled on these dates. Otherwise, they will be in Lot D each Friday from 10am-11am throughout the year. If you can't make it to The SHOP during open hours, please email us to make an appointment for an alternative time. For up-to-date information on holiday closures, see our website at: go.rowan.edu/theshop

Scholarships for current students who will be attending school during the 2022-2023 school year are now available! These scholarships are awarded by the University Scholarship Committee on the basis of academic excellence, financial need, and participation in on-campus and off-campus activities. Deadline is 2/28/22.
PURPOSE
Sunday, 12/12: 7 - 9 p.m.
Eynon Ballroom Window Side

Gay, Lesbian, or Whatever?

Let your pride shine and light up the night! Glow Get ’Em guys, gals, and non-binary pals! Join RAs Catie, Bri, and Iliana for a night of neon colors and fun! There is going to be food, music, and dancing for people of all identities! "Come out" for a party where you can show your pride through glowsticks!
12:30-1:30 p.m.
Kopenhaver CRL - Savitz Hall, Ste 241

Maintaining Your Resilience Throughout the Job Search Process.



The Lindback Distinguished Teaching Award honors one permanent faculty member with an outstanding record of teaching and a sustained record of commitment to student learning. Rowan has many deserving faculty worthy of such an award. Nominate a colleague and we will make sure they receive an application. It may be just the motivation they need to apply. Nominations are due 12/10.
“The Strive to Thrive newsletter intends to bring you well-being ideas, tips, events, information and ways to connect through all dimensions of well-being (physical, social, emotional, purpose, community, and financial). We hope that this layout reminds you of all of the many ways to nourish, attend to, and elevate your well-being and the well-being of those around you.”
Strive to Thrive is a newsletter for the Rowan University community. Visit rowan.edu/thrive or contact rowanthrive@rowan.edu for more information.