On a recent afternoon, a student picked up a bag of groceries, another slipped quietly into a counseling room and a small group laughed over tea in the lounge. It was an ordinary scene at the Caroline Huber Wellness Center. Yet, it’s extraordinary in what it represents: a college reimagining student success not just as grades and credits, but as the well-being of the whole person.
“This place is just great for students to come in and have their peaceful time,” said Wellness Center Director Summer Deaver, who noted that free therapy will begin Oct. 2.
Just off the walkway between the Student Life Center and the library, a glass door opens into a space that feels different from the business of campus. Inside, the Caroline Huber Holistic Wellness Center hums quietly with students, some stopping by for a grab-and-go meal, others picking up groceries or clothing, and still others simply sinking into a chair to catch their breath.
“I came here to study. It’s my first time this year, but last year I’d come here all the time when I was stressed with my major. Now I’ve found a new major, and a new spot to come and do my work,” said 19-year-old Carmine Isaac, a business major from Howell.
The center, which opened in October 2023, was created in memory of Caroline Huber, whose life made possible this vision that extends far beyond traditional student support. Its mission is to nurture every dimension of well-being from physical health to emotional, social, and even financial stability.
The support takes many forms. In one corner, Clara’s Closet offers racks of free clothing, Nearby shelves are stocked with grocery bags that students can take home each week. A small kitchen space doubles as the Nutrition Hub, where vouchers and hot meals are distributed to students who might otherwise go without. Upstairs, therapy rooms are available for free counseling, including virtual sessions through a telehealth platform.
The holistic model also means addressing challenges that can derail a student’s education. Staff members help students apply for SNAP benefits, connect them to recovery groups, and troubleshoot emergencies that range from housing insecurity to transportation breakdowns.
While some needs remain larger than any one campus can solve, like affordable housing or stable jobs, the Wellness Center has carved out a space where students find immediate relief, and often, hope.
“I come here all the time to hang out,” said 19-year-old undecided major Itzel Alcantara. “Today my friends and I are playing UNO. Other days I come for homework or just to talk and catch up.”
The Wellness Center aims to be a model for how a community college can address student wellbeing in a comprehensive way. By combining mental health support, nutritional resources, social connection, and programs addressing basic life challenges, the center strives to reduce barriers and foster success. For many students, its presence is more than just a resource- it’s a lifeline.
“Many students come in and grab groceries for their family,” Deaver said. “It helps them out a lot, and it’s free.”
The Wellness Center has many programs going on weekly. Starting with some HI! Tea on Tuesdays where students drink tea and interact with one another. Wednesdays are for relaxation, and there is even a release room where you can meditate quietly. Thursdays are Autism Peer Support and Alcohol Anonymous, and Friday ends the week with free yoga, no registration required. Students can grab groceries for their households, no proof of income is needed, just a form to fill out to determine the amount of food needed.
Hours of operations are Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday. For more information, contact Coordinator Gina Giannattasio, 732.224.2800.
