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During the week of Feb. 23, numerous Villanova organizations joined to sponsor the University’s first ever Health and Wellness Week. The program took place the week prior to spring break with the objective of educating students on health, nutrition, fitness, fad dieting and safety. The week kicked off on Monday with a special opportunity for students to get together and watch a Villanova basketball road game.

A “watch” party was named “Juice the ‘Cuse,” and several hundred students gathered at the Villanova Room in the Connelly Center. In addition to viewing the game, students were given an educational experience facilitated by various booths. The booths were set up around the exterior of the room by nine Villanova senior nursing students. Various themes relating to healthy living were included. At “Know Your Nutrition,” the nurses educated visitors about dieting trends, and at “Fitness for You VU,” they demonstrated ways to workout without going to the gym. Other booths included information on basketball rules and fan behavior and alcohol.

During timeouts and at halftime, the fans were prompted to go to the booths for chance to win prizes that included a basketball autographed by coach Jay Wright, gift certificates, a spring break gift pack, a mountain bike and more. Entertainment was provided during the event by the Villanova cheerleaders, as well as the Wildcat. Free food and drinks were available to everyone.
Although Villanova lost in a tight game that night, the fans were enthusiastic, cheering every basket, and enjoying the night. The event was conceived through the efforts of CAT and the Center for Health and Wellness; however, it could not have been possible without the contributions of the Counseling Center, Residence Life, P.O.W.E.R. Peer Educators, Dining Services, Athletics and the College of Nursing.

On Tuesday, “Healthy Bites” was also in the Villanova Room, with six different student groups performing skits and presentations. Wednesday featured a band in the Bell Air Terrace, as well as booths throughout the Connelly Center.

Catherine Lovecchio, director of the Center for Health and Wellness in conjunction with Christopher Nigh at CAT, was responsible for coordinating the week and the activities. Lovecchio was “really excited about the collaboration between several departments that made the event successful.” They endeavor to exceed the success of the week with another next year, and CAT may continue with the idea of getting students together to watch “away” basketball games.