By Tim Mastro

NEWARK — What was once a residence hall has turned into a hub for well-being services at the University of Delaware.

UD’s Division of Student Life officially dedicated Warner Hall as its Wellbeing Center with a ribbon-cutting Friday. The building previously was an all-female dormitory.

Instead of beds, Warner Hall now houses areas for quiet study, relaxation, meditation, training, fitness and individual or group counseling. There are also plans to incorporate a movement space with user-friendly exercise equipment and a mindfulness and meditation room.

Confidential well-being services are available by appointment on the lower level, second and third floors.

“I truly believe that good health isn’t just the absence of pain and disease. It’s having the ability to live a full and satisfying life and to do the things that are most meaningful to all of us,” UD president Dennis Assanis said at the ceremony. “We cannot have good physical health if we’re constantly anxious, depressed or socially isolated from our friends and families. We experience emotional well-being when we’re connected with each other and we’re in supportive environments that enable us to do our best. The Wellbeing Center here provides that for all our Blue Hens.”

Vice president of student life José-Luis Riera said the idea for the facility was first discussed in 2016 and has developed thanks to feedback from students.

“There are countless, countless students who have faithfully raised their voices and advocated on behalf of the student body,” Mr. Riera said. “Our collective vision is to create a dynamic and engaging student hub where all are welcome.”

The center opened to the public in August for the start of the academic year. Its first program was called, “Busy Donkey or Productive Unicorn? Making the Most of Your Time in College,” during the university’s new-student orientation.

Friday’s event to dedicate the building featured free ice cream for students, a yoga class and self-guided tours.

Located on the South Green, the Wellbeing Center adds to what UD is calling its “neighborhood of wellbeing.” It also includes Student Health Services in Laurel Hall, as well as the Center for Counseling & Student Development and Student Wellness & Health Promotion, also both found in Warner Hall.

The Wellbeing Center is open for students weekdays from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.