The Counseling and Wellness Center at Governors State University is creating intentional spaces for reflection, connection, and restoration through a series of Healing Circle sessions this March.

Under the leadership of President Joyce C. Ester, the university continues to prioritize the well-being of its campus community. Recognizing that students, faculty, and staff are navigating a period marked by political tension, national discourse, and concerns about stability, university leadership has reaffirmed its commitment to fostering supportive and inclusive spaces.

Many members of the GovState community along with their families, friends, and neighbors have experienced stress, fear, and uncertainty about the future. In response, the Counseling and Wellness Center is leading efforts to strengthen collective care through Healing Circles designed to promote dialogue, reflection, and emotional restoration.

“These sessions are about showing up for one another,” Ester said in her message to the campus community. “Even small acts of care can have a meaningful impact when we come together.”

Healing Circle for Students

Tuesday, March 10,
12 – 1 p.m.
Location: Engbretson Hall

Healing Circle for Faculty & Staff

Thursday, March 12
2 – 3 p.m.
Location: Engbretson Hall

Facilitated by trained counseling professionals, each session will provide a welcoming and inclusive space where participants can unpack emotions, reflect thoughtfully, and reconnect with a shared sense of hope grounded in compassion, dignity, and mutual support.

Healing circles provide a number of benefits, including:

• They promote emotional well-being through structured support to manage stress and anxiety.

• They strengthen community bonds by encouraging unity among students and employees.

• They encourage open dialogue by providing space for thoughtful and respectful conversation.

• They reinforce shared values and emphasize empathy, understanding, and resilience.

• They support academic and professional success by recognizing that mental wellness is foundational to achievement.

The Counseling and Wellness Center continues to offer year-round services, including individual counseling, crisis response, workshops, and wellness programming. These Healing Circles represent another step in ensuring GovState remains a campus rooted in care and compassion.

As President Ester emphasized, the path forward is one we walk together.