American College Health Association

American College Health Association (ACHA) is a national nonprofit organization in the United States dedicated to advancing the health and wellness of college students and campus communities through advocacy, education, and research. Founded in 1920, the ACHA serves as a principal leadership organization for college and university health services, providing resources and support to healthcare professionals, educators, and students in higher education settings.

History

The American College Health Association was established with the mission to improve the health of college students and their campuses. Since its inception, the organization has grown to include a diverse membership of health professionals, including nurses, physicians, health educators, administrators, and students, all working towards enhancing the quality of college health services and promoting healthy lifestyle choices among college populations.

Mission and Vision

The mission of the ACHA is to be the principal advocate and leadership organization for college and university health. It aims to advance the health of college students and campus communities through advocacy, education, and research. The vision of the ACHA is to create a healthier future for all college students and campus communities.

Membership

Membership in the ACHA is open to individuals and institutions involved in the field of college health. Members benefit from professional development opportunities, access to the latest research and best practices in college health, and a network of professionals dedicated to improving student health outcomes.

Programs and Services

The ACHA offers a variety of programs and services designed to support health professionals and promote student health, including:

• Annual Meetings and Conferences: These events provide opportunities for professional development, networking, and sharing of best practices in college health.
• Publications: The ACHA publishes a range of materials, including the Journal of American College Health, policy statements, and guidelines on various health topics relevant to the college population.
• Advocacy: The organization advocates for policies and practices that support the health and well-being of college students at the national, state, and local levels.
• Research: The ACHA conducts and supports research on college health issues, providing valuable data and insights to inform practice and policy.

Key Health Focus Areas

The ACHA focuses on a wide range of health issues affecting college students, including:

• Mental health
• Sexual health
• Alcohol, tobacco, and other drug use
• Infectious diseases
• Chronic diseases
• Environmental health
• Health promotion and wellness

Affiliations and Collaborations

The ACHA collaborates with various organizations and institutions to enhance college health initiatives. These partnerships help to broaden the impact of the ACHA's work and support a multidisciplinary approach to college health.

See Also

• Public health
• Health education
• Student affairs
• Campus safety

External Links

• Official website of the American College Health Association