OCCC has been selected as a Certified Healthy Campus by the Oklahoma State Department of Health. OCCC will be recognized at a luncheon on March 1 at the Cox Convention Center Ballroom.

According to okturningpoint.org, this is the inaugural year for this Certified Healthy Campus award.

“The Oklahoma Certified Healthy Campus status recognizes post-secondary public and private institutions of higher learning and career technology centers for their outstanding efforts and achievements in actively creating a safe and healthy environment for faculty, staff, students and community members.” Okturningpoint.org stated.

The website states there are three different levels for this certification; basic, merit and excellence.

OCCC has earned the excellence certification, said Health and Fitness specialist Marlene Shugart.

There are many different criteria for this particular award, Shugart said.

According to the Oklahoma State Department of Health, to be named a Certified Healthy Campus, a campus must help create a healthier Oklahoma.

It must show students, faculty and staff that the campus takes an active interest in their health and well-being.

Finally, the institution must link health promotion efforts to the learning mission of higher education.

All Oklahoma public and private colleges and universities are encouraged to apply to be a Certified Healthy Campus.

OCCC Recreation and Fitness Department takes a lot of pride in receiving this award, Shugart said.

“We have such great facilities and we try to promote a healthy environment,” she said.

OCCC provides many different avenues for students, faculty, or community members to reach their fitness goals.

There are a three full-length basketball courts and a weight room. OCCC’s Aquatic Center is well regarded around the state for hosting local high school and even NAIA swim meets.

A letter received by OCCC from the Oklahoma State Department of Health reads, “Your contribution to creating a healthier place for learning is important to the future of Oklahoma.”

For more information about OCCC’s Wellness Center programs, visit their webite at www.occ.edu/RF/wellness.html, or call 405-682-1611, ext. 7310.

To contact Brandon Willis, email sportswriter@occc.edu.