Abstract

This paper provides a synopsis of findings from the first two phases of a larger campus-based participatory action research study, which examines the factors that contribute to health within a university setting. Theoretical underpinnings of this study were rooted in concepts of socio-ecological thinking and healthy settings and in the Ottawa Charter and the Okanagan Charter on Health Promoting Universities. In Phase 1 (February 2016), a multidisciplinary team of student and faculty researchers used a campus survey to identify perceived facilitators and barriers to health within the university context. Participants (n = 181) included students, faculty, staff and administration. Findings from Phase 1 were used to create a second survey that itemised possible priority areas for action. In Phase 2 (April 2017), this health priorities survey was sent via the university-wide email listserv to the campus community for input. There was consensus among respondents on which areas should be prioritized for action. Areas identified include health enhancing food-environments (e.g., access to healthy food), health enhancing social environments (e.g., coping and stress management), and teaching and learning environments that support healthy living and well-being (e.g., work-life balance). The findings from Phases 1 and 2 of this study will guide student-engaged and community-driven interventions in subsequent phases of this research.