NEW U program sponsors twice-monthly games
    by Kathy Daniel, reporter

    NE Campus continues the NEW U wellness program for faculty, staff and students.

    This program's name stands for NE Wellness and is only offered on NE Campus.

    "We are hoping to expand this program to the other campuses," Barbara Glenn, campus nurse, said.

    Health/physical education department will offer NEW U events 12:45 p.m. every other Friday.

    A men's and women's basketball free throw tournament will start the semester's activities Friday, Jan. 31.

    February's events will include bowling and racquetball. Later in the spring, students, faculty and staff can participate in sand volleyball, miniature golf, a fun run/walk and water games.

    Each participant earns credits throughout the semester to receive a bronze, silver or gold star.

    Credits accumulated from Jan. 14 to May 2 will be awarded at a ceremony during finals week in May.

    This program was started last fall to help in six areas: social, emotional, physical/nutritional, spiritual, intellectual and occupational.

    NEW U was designed to help the participants inside and out, Glenn said.

    Some benefits of this program include stress management, financial planning, meditation techniques, exploration of the mind's creativity and physical health, Glenn said.

    All current activities are listed on the NEW U Web site, which is updated regularly so participants can find the upcoming events.

    While this program is still in an early stage and enrollment is low, Glenn believes NEW U can benefit anyone who will give it a try.

    Fall semester went well, Glenn said, so no major changes are being made to the program for this semester.

    Students can complete the enrollment form and turn it in to Dr. Joy Thetford, professor of health and physical education, to start the program.

    The sooner new participants enroll, the more time they have to earn points toward the awards, Glenn said.

    "Just give it a try. See how much better you feel all around," Glenn said.

    For more information, visit www.tccd.net/campus_ne/newu.