Healthyhorns Impact Report
2024 - 2025
Healthyhorns
At Healthyhorns, we believe supporting student success means caring for the whole person. Healthyhorns—the combined health and well-being departments made up of University Health Services, the Counseling and Mental Health Center and Longhorn Wellness Center—embodies this approach.
This report highlights our impact over the academic year and reaffirms our commitment to every Longhorn’s health, well-being and success.
Healthyhorns Leadership
healthyhorns on campus
- 45,000+ sq. ft. in the Student Services Building
- 69 exam rooms
- 6 procedure rooms
- 17,000+ sq. ft. in the Student Services Building
- 19 CARE counselor offices in schools and colleges
- 3 MindBody Lounges on campus
- 2,000+ sq. ft. in the Student Services Building
- Includes staff offices, open co-working and lounge space, and grab-and-go wellness supplies, including sleep kits, Narcan and safer sex supplies
Excellence in Action
Collective Expertise in Student Well-being
Our team of professionals brings extensive experience in college health, mental health and health promotion.
Clinical Quality and Safety
Healthyhorns delivers high-quality, evidence-based services and is nationally accredited for safety and excellence.
Public Health Powerhouse
Healthyhorns lends leadership, expertise and innovation to help Longhorns stay safe and healthy.
Helping Students Navigate Their Well-being
Healthyhorns helps students learn to navigate their own well-being—often for the first time—while creating a welcoming environment where they feel comfortable seeking support.
Key Achievements
Healthyhorns College Partnerships Expand Student Well-Being Support
Healthyhorns expanded college-based well-being support through partnerships with the College of Liberal Arts and the College of Natural Sciences. In COLA, the Humanitas Student Well-Being Collective launched in Fall 2024, connecting students to CMHC and Longhorn Wellness Center services. In February 2025, CNS opened a new wellness center in Painter Hall that integrates CMHC Counselors in Academic Residence (CARE) and a food pantry.
Health and Well-Being Leadership Team Impact
Healthyhorns staff led the campus-wide Health and Well-Being Leadership Team, advancing strategic actions to strengthen student well-being across campus. A key achievement was the launch of the Health and Well-Being website, now featured on the main UT Austin website and accessible through Canvas.
Supporting Student Professional Development
In 2024–2025, Healthyhorns offered more than 230 paid and volunteer opportunities for UT students to build professional experience while supporting campus well-being. Across UHS, CMHC and the LWC, students served as peer educators, clinical assistants, research assistants and more—supporting service delivery and shaping the campus wellness experience.
Sharing Research on the National Stage
In July 2025, Healthyhorns staff and Student Health Advisory Committee (SHAC) students attended the American College Health Association (ACHA) annual meeting in New Orleans to share expertise, showcase research and engage with college health professionals nationwide. Presentation topics included mental health service utilization among South Asian students, campus wellness sustainability, lessons learned over a decade of the CARE program and the benefits of mindfulness during high-stress periods. These contributions highlight the national reach and impact of Healthyhorns in advancing student health and well-being.
Continuous Accreditation
University Health Services has maintained continuous accreditation by the Accreditation Association for Ambulatory Health Care since 1999, with Counseling and Mental Health Center successfully included under that accreditation for the first time during Spring 2023. The UHS Laboratory has remained accredited by the College of American Pathologists since 1983. Together, these accreditations reflect an ongoing commitment to quality, safety and student-centered care, with preparation underway for the next accreditation cycle in Spring 2026.
Healthyhorns Research Endeavors
Undergraduate Research Mentorship
The inaugural group of Healthyhorns undergraduate research affiliates developed a series of research projects examining mental health risks, barriers and treatment utilization among South Asian undergraduate students at UT and across the U.S, resulting in the following honors and awards:
- St. David's Foundation Culturally Responsive Mental Health Support award ($35,000) to create programming and build partnerships among South Asian religious community leaders to reduce mental health stigma and promote help-seeking
- First prize, Arts, Humanities and Social Sciences in the inaugural Texas Student Research Showdown ($1,500) for a video summarizing their findings demonstrating differences in suicide risk among Asian ethnic subgroups.
- Finalist, Outstanding Research Communication Award in the 2025 Capital of Texas Undergraduate Research Conference
Selected Peer-Reviewed Publications by Healthyhorns Staff
Selected Conference Presentations by Healthyhorns Staff
Healthyhorns Media Mentions
Healthyhorns is proud to be called upon by campus, local and national media as experts on a variety of topics. Below is a sampling of our staff featured in media articles during this academic year.
After her inspiring talk at the Butler School of Music’s convocation in Fall 2024, Niki Luibrand, LCSW-S, PMH-C, the CARE Counselor for the College of Fine Arts, was invited to join the Butler School of Music podcast to discuss mental health support for music students.
The Daily Texan featured insights from UT students and staff in the article, “Prioritizing mental health as a student worker” (Sept. 16, 2024). The piece highlights the unique mental health challenges faced by student employees and shares tips and resources from the Counseling and Mental Health Center to support student well-being.
The Daily Texan highlighted useful student tools in the article, “Six apps every UT student should download” (Oct. 9, 2024). The article recommends apps like Thrive at UT, Cove and LH Eats that help students with mental health, event discovery and dining options.
The Daily Texan spotlighted sophomore mental health in “Navigating the sophomore slump” (Oct. 28, 2024). The article emphasizes the importance of campus support systems — from the Sanger Learning Center to counseling — in helping students combat the decline in motivation and engagement common in year two.
The Daily Texan highlighted STI awareness in “Combating stigma, raising awareness of STIs at UT” (Oct. 30, 2024). The article covers efforts to normalize STI testing and reduce stigma, featuring insights from public health specialists and student experiences.
The Daily Texan explored body image culture in “Body positivity can be counterproductive” (Nov. 21, 2024). The article highlights a shift toward body neutrality, with insights from Longhorn Wellness Center staff who encourage students to focus on what their bodies can do rather than how they look.
The Daily Texan addressed seasonal mental health in the column “Weaving through the winter blues” (Dec. 3, 2024). The piece discusses how the holiday season can exacerbate feelings of loneliness, fatigue and anxiety, particularly for students with unstable home environments, and emphasizes the importance of acknowledging and addressing these emotions.
The Daily Texan highlighted campus psychiatric services in “Longhorn Essentials: Campus Psychiatric Care” (Feb. 6, 2025). The article outlines how CMHC helps students access medication and psychiatric support through low-cost services, brief assessments and referrals — emphasizing flexibility, affordability and the importance of destigmatizing mental health care on campus.
The Daily Texan emphasized the power of structure in the column “Daily routines make a difference” (Feb. 6, 2025), sharing how establishing consistent daily habits — like scheduled study blocks, self-care breaks and flexible rewards — can combat stress and improve productivity.
The Daily Texan spotlighted a major mental health initiative in “UT System signs contract for institution-wide mental health modules” (Apr. 7, 2025). The article reports that incoming students across all UT System campuses will have access to these mental health modules starting fall 2025 — mirroring the existing alcohol and sexual assault trainings. Student Government leaders helped pitch the project, which includes self-care strategies, distress recognition and local support info.
The Daily Texan promoted sun safety in “Soak up the sun, not the skin damage” (Apr. 23, 2025). The article shares expert tips from the Longhorn Wellness Center on preventing UV damage with sunscreen, shade and protective clothing.
The Daily Texan featured a student-centered guide in their podcast series Longhorn Essentials on April 24, 2025. The episode, “Longhorn Essentials: Meditation,” explores campus mindfulness resources — from UT Skyspace to MindBody Lounges — and includes insights from a Longhorn Wellness Center expert.
The Daily Texan reflected on personal transformation in the opinion piece “Ex marks the growth” (June 20, 2025). The column highlights the emotional process of grief, healing and the value of letting go for self-growth, featuring insights from CMHC's Clinical Director.
Impact Report Archive
Explore previous Healthyhorns impact reports
By the Numbers
Total Attended Visits
Unique Patients Served
in Medical Expenses for UT Students Subsidized by UHS
Patient Satisfaction
said access to UHS minimized academic disruptions.
would recommend UHS to a friend.
received information that improved their overall health.
were satisfied with their UHS visit.
Patient Visits by Clinic Area
- Primary Care 22,658
- Gynecology 8,763
- Allergy, Immunization and Travel Health 7,148
- Physical Therapy 5,520
- Urgent Care 4,941
- Sports Medicine 4,286
- Ultrasounds and X-Rays 3,273
- Integrated Mental Healthcare 1,486
- Nutrition Services 1,372
- STI Screenings 1,224
Other patient encounters
Laboratory Tests
Nurse Triage Calls
Flu Vaccines
UHS Team Highlights
Welcoming Our New Chief Medical Officer
Dr. Danielle Glade became Chief Medical Officer of University Health Services in May 2025. A former UHS General Medicine physician, she has held faculty and leadership roles at Dell Medical School and practiced pediatrics at Dell Children’s and St. David’s. Known for calm, collaborative leadership, Dr. Glade now oversees clinical care across UHS.
Long-Term Longhorn in New Leadership Role
In October 2024, Susan Hochman, MPH, FACHE became Executive Director of University Health Services. With over 20 years in college health, Hochman has held key leadership roles at UT Austin since 2010, guiding strategic initiatives, communications and health promotion. She brings a deep commitment to student well-being and a strong track record of campus impact to her role.
2024–2025 UHS Staff Service Awards
Key Achievements
Easier Access to STI Testing
As of October 2024, University Health Services now offers self-referred walk-in STI testing for students. Students can visit either the STI Nurse Screening Clinic or the Gynecology Clinic and choose their preferred test(s)—no provider appointment needed. This new option makes it easier for students to access drop-in STI testing alongside the scheduled appointment options available at UHS.
Expanded Gynecology Telehealth Hours
Starting October 2024, the Gynecology Clinic offers expanded telehealth hours. Students can now schedule morning, evening and weekend visits for contraception (including IUDs and implants), annual exams, STI testing, UTI evaluations and more—making it easier to get care.
UHS Named Finalist for National Quality Improvement Award
In Summer 2025, a UHS quality improvement study was named a finalist for the prestigious Bernie Kershner Quality Improvement Award by the American Association for Ambulatory Health Care (AAAHC). This national recognition highlights UHS’s dedication to continuous improvement in patient care. Dr. Danielle Glade and Ellyn Lizakowski, FNP, will be representing UHS through virtual and in-person presentations at AAAHC’s Achieving Accreditation conference.
Building Careers Through Clinical Experience
University Health Services' second year (2024-2025) of the Student Clinical Assistant Program offers paid, hands-on clinical experience. Designed for students pursuing careers in healthcare and medical sciences, the program combines education with real-world application. This year, the program expanded to include experience in Sports Medicine.
Student Testimonials
“Y’all never disappoint! I never have to wait long, and every doctor I’ve seen has been so kind and understanding. I absolutely love UHS!”
“I’ve had a few general medicine visits for ongoing care, and my provider has been one of the best I’ve worked with in Austin. They listen attentively, take my concerns seriously, and never make me feel rushed—something that can be rare in medical settings. Their compassion and thoroughness have made a huge difference and encouraged me to stay engaged with student health services.”
“My PA along with the nurses and front desk staff, were quick, respectful and thorough. They listened carefully, helped ease my concerns and provided solutions right away.”
“Having a clinic just a short walk from where I need to be for my on-campus commitments is a huge help.”
“My provider never fails to make me feel comfortable and heard. She takes the time to truly understand my concerns, and I always feel so much better after meeting with her—she’s awesome! The entire process, from scheduling to lab testing, is easy and incredibly convenient as a UT student.”
“My provider has always been knowledgeable and encouraging in helping me with my post-surgical physical therapy. I really appreciate her attentiveness to my concerns and her ability to adjust my exercise plan as I progress. Her thoroughness and professionalism mean so much.”
“My provider was amazing—really attentive and helpful when I had questions about my care. Every visit to UHS has been a great experience, and I always recommend their services to friends and classmates.”
“The staff were friendly and welcoming, and it was so convenient to get a flu shot during my visit. My provider has been wonderful—kind, approachable, and great at helping me feel comfortable during appointments. They always take time to explain things clearly and empower me to understand my body and recognize potential concerns. I recommend UHS to all my friends!”
“My provider was incredibly professional and skilled—both in answering my questions and during the procedure itself. It was quick, painless and handled with great care. The small details made the experience that much better.”
By the Numbers
Total Attended Sessions
Unique Students Served
Visits by Clinical Area
- Individual Counseling Sessions 14,482
- TimelyCare Sessions 9,945
- Brief Assessments 6,628
- Group and Workshop Sessions 1,987
- Case Management Appointments 1,935
- Psychiatry Sessions 1,503
- Crisis Line Calls 731
- Crisis Counseling Sessions 519
- Psychological Assessment Appointments 326
Client Satisfaction
felt safe discussing aspects of their identity with their clinician.
would recommend CMHC to a friend.
were satisfied with their CMHC visit.
would seek help from a mental health professional in the future.
said CMHC services helped address their concerns.
Reasons Students Seek Care at CMHC
- Anxiety 74%
- Stress 62%
- Depression 50%
- Academic Concerns 50%
- Social Relationships 32%
- Social Isolation/Loneliness 31%
- Career Concerns 27%
- Sleep Concerns 25%
- Romantic Relationships 25%
- Body Image/Eating 21%
- Family Concerns 21%
- Adjustment 19%
- Grief/Loss 13%
- Suicidal Ideation 11%
- Trauma 11%
- Health Concerns 11%
- Substance Use 9%
- Other 9%
- Gender/Sexual Orientation 6%
- Sexual Assault 5%
- Non-Suicidal Self-Injury 5%
- Identity-Based Bias/Oppression 4%
Note: More than one presenting issue can be given.
CMHC Team Highlights
A New Chapter for Graduate Training at CMHC
Joey Hannah, PhD, became Director of the Training Program at the Counseling and Mental Health Center in fall 2025. A licensed psychologist with a PhD in Counseling Psychology from the University of Florida, Dr. Hannah has been part of CMHC since 2014 and brings extensive experience in clinical training and supervision. His professional interests include anxiety, depression, trauma recovery, grief and loss, and suicide prevention and intervention. In his new role, he leads CMHC’s graduate training programs, supporting a cohort of around 12-15 trainees each year and continuing the center’s long-standing commitment to high-quality training experiences that directly support student well-being.
2024–2025 CMHC Staff Service Awards
Key Achievements
A Decade of CARE at UT Austin
As of fall 2024, Counselors in Academic Residence (CARE) celebrated 10 years at UT Austin. Established in 2014, this transformative program is a partnership between the Counseling and Mental Health Center and the Office of the Provost. It places licensed mental health professionals within schools and colleges, providing accessible mental health support to all students.
Spotlight on TimelyCare
Launched in 2022, TimelyCare provides free, 24/7 virtual mental health and well-being support to students at all UT System institutions. Students can connect with providers who offer support in more than 240 languages. The platform is accessible on campus, throughout Texas, across the U.S., and even abroad.
Student Testimonials
“Counseling has been one of most meaningful experiences I’ve ever had. Having someone so caring truly listen and offer support gave me a sense of hope and reassurance I’ll never forget. That’s what my counselor provided for me.”
“I’m finally in a space where I can openly talk, communicate and connect one-on-one with someone about my struggles—without fear of judgment or repercussions.”
“There was so much patience and empathy in every conversation, along with deeply thoughtful and productive discussions about what I was experiencing.”
“Honestly, the convenience of scheduling and location made it possible for me to seek help—something I’d never done before. Getting support I might not have sought otherwise has greatly improved my overall quality of life.”
“My counselor empowers me to take an active role in deciding the best course of action to reach my goals. That sense of ownership makes the process feel collaborative rather than instructional.”
“The most helpful part was how easy it was to connect with a mental health professional. Scheduling was simple, stress-free and very flexible.”
“Being connected with the right professionals for each situation, and receiving a follow-up call when I expressed interest in starting therapy, made all the difference.”
“People were kind, and the 5th floor felt like a safe space. What helped most was feeling heard and realizing I wasn’t alone anymore.”
“I really appreciate how the counseling is tailored to students and connects us with specific UT resources that are most helpful for our situations.”
“What was most helpful was the flexibility in scheduling appointments and how quickly they worked to get me in. Since I meet with a CARE counselor, I was able to stop by during office hours, explain why I wanted an appointment and she was so attentive and understanding—she got me scheduled right away.”
“I really appreciate having a counselor located within my college. As a graduate student, I don’t often visit other parts of campus, so it’s great not having to go far for support. I prefer in-person sessions to telehealth, and having my counselor nearby was a big motivator for me to start counseling.”
Longhorn Wellness Center
The Longhorn Wellness Center (LWC) fosters a culture of student and campus well-being. Since the 1980s, the department has supported student health, developed future health leaders and engaged the campus community in meaningful health promotion.
Health Promotion Initiatives
Educational Workshops
Delivered 132 workshops to students, faculty and staff. After attending a workshop, 95% of participants said they learned something valuable to support their health and well-being.
Required Online Education for Incoming Students
10,844 incoming first-year students completed two modules addressing substance misuse prevention and sexual assault prevention. 75% agreed that the modules made them more confident in their ability to intervene when they saw concerning behavior.
Substance Use Screening Program
85 student participants considered how alcohol or cannabis could affect their academics or well-being through the brief substance use screening programs.
Get Kinetic: A Residential Physical Activity Program
87% of participants said they felt more connected to the Kinsolving community after being involved.
Resource Distribution
Sleep Kits
Distributed sleep kits to 6,244 students to promote better rest and encourage healthy sleep habits.
Mental Health Mini Grants
Awarded $10,920 to 24 student organizations to support events and programs promoting student mental health.
Safer Sex Supply Distribution
The Play It Safe Post program provides free safer sex supplies in UT residence halls to make safer sex resources more accessible. 256 students used the post, and 74% said they’re more likely to use safer sex supplies because of the program.
Naloxone Pickup Point
144 boxes of naloxone, an overdose prevention medication, were picked up from the LWC in collaboration with UT SHIFT’s Operation Naloxone Program.
Health Messaging
Healthyhorns Text Program
27,000 students received regular text messages with campus resource updates and tips for staying healthy. 68% of subscribers reported changing a behavior based on a Healthyhorns text.
Bruce the Bat on Social Media
This campaign challenges misconceptions about peers’ alcohol use and promotes safer, lower-risk choices. Among students who saw the campaign, 89% shared what they learned with friends.
Campus Collaborations
Sexual Assault Awareness Month
Voices Against Violence partnered with Title IX, Horns Against Hazing, UTPD Victim Services, SHIFT Makers and others to host a Sexual Assault Awareness Month Resource Fair with 200+ participants.
Mindfulness Summit
In collaboration with the Blanton Museum of Art and Native American and Indigenous Studies, this event featured a keynote address, 7 guided mindfulness sessions, 6 independent activities and a community picnic attended by 130 participants.
West Fest Ready Workshops
In partnership with SHIFT, the Center for Students in Recovery, Sorority and Fraternity Life, the Interfraternity Council, and the Panhellenic Council, these workshops provided education and resources to promote safer experiences during West Fest. Following the training, 94% of students reported confidence in their ability to make a plan to minimize risk if they choose to use alcohol or drugs and 92% felt confident stepping in if they see a potentially harmful situation.
LWC Team Highlights
Contributions to the Field of College Health Promotion
- Staff reached over 400 professionals across the nation, sharing insights at professional conferences.
- Brittany O’Malley, MPH, Associate Director, Prevention is an author of the 2025 American College Health Association’s Organizational Structures for Health Promotion in Higher Education guide.
- Thea Woodruff, PhD, Well-Being in Learning Environments Coordinator was the lead author of nationwide online modules for university faculty on supporting student well-being through Vector Solutions.
From Student Government President to Mental Health Policy Fellow
Grace Kelly, 2024–2025 UT Austin Student Government President, began serving as a Mental Health Policy Fellow in Summer 2025. Her commitment to student well-being began early in her academic career. Entering UT in fall 2021 during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, Kelly sought connection and support through the Plan II Pre-Medical Society. She went on to lead the Plan II Mental Health Alliance and volunteer off campus—demonstrating a strong dedication to supporting others. As the Student Government President, Kelly helped implement key initiatives like the new mental health and well-being module, which is required for all incoming first-year and transfer students. Now, as a Mental Health Policy Fellow, she works closely with Dr. Chris Brownson, Associate Vice President for Health and Well-being, and Longhorn Wellness Center staff on various special projects.
Key Achievements
Longhorns Listen: Suicide Prevention Training
The Longhorn Wellness Center launched Longhorns Listen: Suicide Prevention Training, a new program aligned with a UT System-wide initiative. During 2024–2025, efforts focused on building a strong foundation by training 22 facilitators to lead campus workshops, positioning the program for broader training and impact during the 2025–2026 academic year.
Well-being Resources in Residence Halls
In Fall 2024, the Longhorn Wellness Center partnered with University Housing and Dining to integrate well-being resources into residence hall showrooms. Students can find natural cues and tools to set up their rooms for success, learning early in their college career how to make healthy choices.
New Canvas Modules for Students
In Fall 2024, the Longhorn Wellness Center introduced new Canvas modules for students, faculty and staff on health topics including bystander intervention, sexual health and sleep. These self-paced modules allow members of the university community to enhance their knowledge on these important topics.
Well-being for Student Organizations
The Longhorn Wellness Center launched Well-being for Student Organizations, a pilot program for student organizations that are passionate about improving the health and well-being of their organization and members. A total of 6 student organizations participated in the pilot reaching a total of 961 students.
Texas Beach Volleyball and mindful UT
LWC’s mindfulness program, mindful UT, partnered with the Texas Beach Volleyball team. The team and coaches learn mindfulness techniques that can be integrated into their practices and games. As a result of this partnership, the team has even established a mindfulness captain.
Texas Well-being Faculty Ambassadors Program
In Spring 2025, the Longhorn Wellness Center piloted the Texas Well-being Faculty Ambassadors Program, placing 7 well-being champions across 6 academic schools and colleges. The initiative expands the reach of Texas Well-being and empowers faculty to lead efforts that promote well-being in classrooms and beyond, helping to build a healthier, more supportive academic environment for all members of the UT community.
Student Testimonials
“I always feel uplifted, empowered and valued by all LWC staff. They celebrate my wins, grant me grace and time when I need a breather and have cheered me on this entire year.”
“The staff at LWC provide me with resources to seek mental health support and a community where I feel safe to be myself.”
“As a pre-health student, I feel that my time at the LWC allowed me to see topics I learned about in class apply to real-life situations. That insight is so valuable and gives more perspective when thinking about working in public health.”
“I enjoy the LWC because of the community and the relationships with students and staff, which helped me manage stress with school.”
“Working with the LWC, I was able to directly learn more about programming and career paths through my supervisors, as that’s related to my professional goals.”
“After participating in a SHARE community, I felt like I was around people who genuinely wanted to support others. It gave me comfort and made me feel like I could actually manage things that were hard.”
“As I stepped into leadership roles in SHARE, I found strength through leading even when topics were difficult and helping others find comfort and courage too.”
“I love that the Longhorn Wellness Center offers so many resources for everyone to get support for their health. It makes it very accessible.”
“I love that the Longhorn Wellness Center provides free resources that promote student health and that they’re constantly working to promote wellness among students.”
“Everyone is so welcoming! It’s a great place to be and I can feel the positive energy there.”
“I love the vibe of the LWC! It’s a great place to study and relax if I’m on campus and have time between classes”
“Being part of the Longhorn Wellness Peer Educator class reminds me to ground myself. I’m so grateful for this experience because it helps my mental health too.”
“I love how welcoming everyone is in the peer educator program and how we’re all working together to make our campus better.”
“I love meeting other peer educators who share the same goals and having a space to talk about change.”
“As a peer educator, I appreciate having access to the staff in the LWC. It’s helpful to gain insight into wellness happenings across the university.”
“Through the peer educator program, I’ve also learned about so many campus resources I didn’t know about before, and it’s really cool to share those with my friends and peers.”