Evaluating the Effectiveness of Campus Interventions for Student-Athletes: A Follow-Up Study

Authors: Natalie Bartle, Barat Wolfe

SUNY Campus: SUNY Canton

Presentation Type: Poster

Location: Old Union Hall

Presentation #: 34

Timeslot: Session B 10:15-11:15 AM

Abstract: Evaluating the Effectiveness of Campus Interventions for Student-Athletes: A Follow-Up Study One year ago, we conducted a survey to examine student-athletes’ needs and preferences for mental health and sport psychology resources on campus. 139 students participated, and this data was presented at: an athletics department meeting, the Student Athlete Advisory Committee, our campus Scholarly Activities Celebration, and SURC 2024. Following this dissemination of results, our campus followed up with multiple initiatives aimed at responding to these student needs, including: (1) creation of student-faculty “mixers” to improve relationships and collaboration; (2) establishment of a liaison from Counseling to the Athletics Department; (3) provision of professional development, namely in the form of DISC training for student-athlete and coach leadership; (4) addition of Mental Health First Aid training; (5) creation of a “load management” workshop. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the awareness and effectiveness of these initiatives as a means of understanding their impact on campus, and improving the roll-out of additional future planned measures. Survey results will be presented (at the time of abstract submission, data is still being collected, with anticipated survey closure at the end of March). Implications will be discussed, with particular focus on the need to establish assessment and evaluation of campus initiatives as important components of “closing the loop” on any activities undertaken that have a goal of improving student mental health