WMU health officials invited to White House by Obama administration

KALAMAZOO, Mich.—The Obama administration recently invited staff from Western Michigan University's Sindecuse Health Center to the White House to recognize them for their work in helping uninsured members of the campus community.

The recognition was part of the administration's Healthy Campus Challenge. Dr. Lisa Marshall, center director, and Joe VanDerBos, the center's senior marketing specialist, attended an event on Jan. 13 to accept a certificate on behalf of all who took part in the effort.

In fall 2016, the center registered for the challenge at the invitation of the White House. Sindecuse staff and student volunteers used a variety of avenues to reach uninsured campus community members to encourage them to consider health insurance options.

Sindecuse staff offered workshops to educate people about insurance, set up outreach tables and sent out announcements inviting students to gain health insurance coverage. Members of the Student Health Advisory Council also made a video as part of the #justgetcovered campaign, which was widely seen and shared. An event for Enroll Kalamazoo County at the health center in January gave students personal assistance while they enrolled.

At the Jan. 13 White House event, Kristie Canegallo, assistant to President Obama, presented awards. First Lady Michelle Obama delivered remarks on behalf of the administration and joined attendees for a photo.

For more information on the WMU Sindecuse Health Center and healthy campus initiatives, visit wmich.edu/healthcenter.

For more WMU news, arts and events, visit wmich.edu/news.