Wesleyan University Kicks Off Year 4 with RADical Hope

Wesleyan University and RADical Hope are teaming up for the fourth year to offer RADical Health to all student-athletes through the school’s athletic department.

“Wesleyan Athletics is proud to continue its partnership with RADical Hope. In its fourth year at Wesleyan, the RADical Health experience has reached all current student-athletes,” shared Scott Bushey, Senior Assistant Athletic Director for Internal Operations and Wellness at Wesleyan. “Thanks to RADical Health, student-athletes are more resilient, connected, and prepared to meet the challenges of everyday life. RADical Health is and will continue to be the foundation of Wesleyan Athletics’ culture of caring. We look forward to continuing our partnership with RADical Hope for many years to come.”

“RADical Hope is proud to continue its partnership with Wesleyan Athletics for the fourth consecutive year. Through the leadership of Mike Whalen, Scott Bushey, and the Wesleyan student-athletes, RADical Health has become embedded into the very fabric of the Wesleyan athletic community’s culture of caring,” shared Mackenzie Kelly, RADical Hope’s Program Director. “By fostering resilience, connection, and mental strength, Wesleyan is creating an environment where student-athletes can thrive both on and off the field. We are honored to be a part of their culture and look forward to deepening our collaboration in the years to come.“

Wesleyan’s main program under the partnership with the RADical Hope Foundation is “Take Flight.” Now in its fourth year of existence, Take Flight is a skill-based wellness experience that builds connections and community among Wesleyan first-year student-athletes. Through engaging with peers, mentors, and a variety of resources, student-athletes develop skills that will be beneficial throughout college and beyond. Guided by student-athlete leaders, this 4-week experience welcomes the incoming class to Wesleyan Athletics’ Culture of Caring, defined by a commitment to the holistic development of the student, athlete, and person.

Zack Burd, a peer Guide at Wesleyan, shared: “Take Flight is a great resource for incoming freshman to help get adjusted to life on a college campus. Among many things, it helps connect freshman to a peer mentor who can help support them and provide advice during their time at Wesleyan. It is really helpful to have someone who has gone through the adjustment to college give advice in a more informal and friendly way.” 

Wesleyan University Director of Athletics Mike Whalen ’83 was honored by RADical Hope at the organization’s annual dinner last April as the recipient of the Christopher W. Martin Award, which honors those whose spirit or kindness, courage, grit, and vulnerability inspires hope in others each day.