The Edward Via College of Osteopathic Medicine (VCOM) has been named a recipient of Insight Into Academia magazine’s 2025 Excellence in Mental Health and Well-Being Award. This national recognition honors institutions that demonstrate a deep commitment to integrating mental health services and support into the fabric of campus life.
VCOM is one of just over 70 colleges and universities across the United States selected for this distinction. Awardees are featured in the September 2025 issue of Insight Into Academia, the nation’s oldest and largest diversity and inclusion publication in higher education.
From its inception, VCOM has prioritized the development of mental health and wellness programs. Through the Center for Institutional, Faculty, and Student Success (CIFSS), students have access to academic and mental health counseling, including 24/7 mental health support and a range of additional resources. Wellness initiatives led by the Office for Student Affairs—alongside the daily efforts of faculty and staff—foster a strong sense of community and support. These services complement the College’s comprehensive student health insurance plan paid for by the College, which includes mental health coverage.
We believe that academic success and personal well-being go hand in hand. VCOM is committed to supporting the whole student—body, mind, and spirit. Our approach helps students succeed both in the classroom and in the clinical setting, while building resilience and self-care skills vital to a lifetime of service in medicine.
VCOM’s multi-campus model—serving students in Virginia, the Carolinas, Alabama, and Louisiana—extends its reach into rural and underserved communities, reinforcing its commitment to accessible, community-based care. The College’s wellness infrastructure plays a vital role in preparing students to meet the demands of medical training while staying grounded in purpose and well-being.
Provost Deborah West, EdD, affirmed that this commitment is central to VCOM’s misson. "Receiving this award reflects the intentional work we have done to make mental health and wellness a core part of who we are. We know that academic excellence and personal well-being are deeply connected. Supporting the mental health of our students, faculty, and staff is not optional—it’s essential to who we are as an institution. We are proud to lead by example and will continue investing in the health and well-being of our entire academic community."
“We know institutions are not always recognized for their dedication to mental health and well-being,” said Lenore Pearlstein, publisher of Insight Into Academia. “We are proud to honor VCOM and others as role models in higher education.”
To learn more about the 2025 Excellence in Mental Health and Well-Being Award, visit insightintoacademia.com.