10th annual Student Health and Wellness women’s retreat held
To wrap up International Women’s Month at Texas A&M University-Kingsville, the Student Health and Wellness (SHW) department hosted its 10th annual Women’s Retreat on March 28 in the Memorial Student Union Ballrooms.
This annual retreat started in 2010 after SHW received an HIV grant, which required the department to host a women’s retreat that would have educational sessions to educate students on sexual health, responsibility and other health topics deemed necessary. The SHW department was also able to include activities they thought students would enjoy, which included massages, nail care, beauty care and other activities.
However, because of the pandemic, SHW had to halt its annual retreat. So, this year, the department celebrated its 10-year anniversary of hosting a Women’s Retreat, which was in 2020.
“[We host the retreat] to educate the students on topics that would help them not only learn something new on health and wellness, but also topics that would help them grow, connect with others and give them resources,” Director of SHW Jo-Elda Castillo Alaniz said.
This year’s retreat started with a power lounge, which had food and refreshments for students, educational booths with representatives from student services on campus, Coastal Bend Wellness and Women’s and Men’s Health which provided students information on health, DIY projects and licensed massage therapists. Students were also able to attend optional sessions during which speakers presented information on topics ranging from “Knowing Your Worth,” “Eating on a Budget” and “Situational Awareness.”
While speakers were present during the retreat, there was a panel of faculty of staff professionals from different areas of the university who answered questions. The theme of the questions the panel responded to were “A Women’s Journey to Leadership.”
“I think what was great about our panel was that we were a diverse group of women from different backgrounds of life that could connect with different students,” Assistant Director of Student Engagement and Campus Life Jessica Montenegro said. “At the same time, the core of what helped drive our success was that we all have a strong foundation of what was important to our values and that guides leadership, and I believe the women at the retreat heard that and resonated with it.”
By hosting events such as the Women’s Retreat, it gives a better understanding of barriers women must overcome, whether it be in leadership, mental health, careers or just life.
“Not only are we giving information to help students with their careers, but we’re also giving information that pertains to women,” Women’s Retreat Student Coordinator Gina Merzbacher said. “[The retreat] is just ways to help women in their lives and know how to get through their hardships.”
For students who were not able to attend this year’s retreat, no need to worry. The SHW department hosts this event every year and offers support and guidance for students year-round. If you would like to get in contact with the department, call (361) 593-2383, or stop by the office located at 1210 N. Retama St.