Students melted into the massage chairs at the hands of masseuses while the In-Motion Dance Troupe performed during the 14th annual Wellness Fair, held in the Ceddia Union Building Multi-Purpose room (MPR) from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Wednesday.

The Counseling Center, the human resources department and local businesses set up shop in the CUB to work collaboratively to educate, screen and treat students to back massages. 

Many organizations offered free snacks, merchandise and health information. 

On-campus organizations like the department of recreation and dining services worked alongside local businesses like Giant, Planet Fitness, the American Heart Association and many others, all with the goal to educate students and Shippensburg residents in health and wellness.  

The American Heart Association challenged students to perform CPR on silicon dummies and spoke with them on the importance of familiarizing themselves with the proper CPR techniques. It also provided informational graphics on healthy eating and a form that busted seven myths about salt consumption. 

Walmart, meanwhile, provided free vision screenings and Locks of Love collected donations in the form of hair by generous students. The Pregnancy Resource Center promoted its free STI screenings and quizzed students on the details of various sexually­-transmitted diseases. 

One student, senior Colton Abeling, enjoyed the many free samples and merchandise that the event boasted. 

“This is a pretty nice change of pace,” Abeling said. “A free massage and snacks sound pretty amazing right now.” 

Approaching the MPR, students were greeted by Counseling Center graduate assistants and handed a Wellness Fair bingo card that encouraged students and Shippensburg residents to visit the many organizations participating in the event. 

Having achieved “bingo” on the Wellness Fair card, students entered a raffle to win prizes like gift cards and merchandise, some of which were provided by the participating organizations, according to graduate assistant Trevor Donovan. 

“We just want to make everyone aware of the different resources available in the community,” he said. “With opportunities like acupuncture and massages, it’s a nice way to take a break from your day.”

Donovan added that self-defense demonstrations and HIV testing information were also available at the Wellness Fair.

Along with the SU Counseling Center and the Human Resources Department, Etter Health Center also had a large part in coordinating the event.  

Boyer Chiropractic offered adjustments and was willing to speak with students, giving tips on healthy back-care and handing out packets of Biofreeze. 

Students also found ­— to their delight — the presence of Kindly Canines, an organization that supplies well-trained service dogs to people in need. The organization had several dogs at its stand and attracted nearby students. 

Students who are seeking medical help or more information about mental health or wellness, are encouraged to visit the Counseling Center or Etter. 

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