BCTC to Host Third Annual Wellness Fest in Recognition of World Mental Health Day; Campus-wide event will promote mental health, wellness, connection and community resources for students, faculty and staff

Published on Oct 6, 2026

LEXINGTON, KY — Bluegrass Community and Technical College (BCTC) will host its Third Annual Wellness Fest on Thursday, October 8, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Newtown Campus, Science Education Center (SEC). Hosted by BCTC Personal Counseling Services, the campus-wide event will bring students, faculty and staff together to promote mental health awareness, personal well-being and connection to supportive resources.

The event is being held in conjunction with World Mental Health Day, recognized annually on October 10. This year, BCTC will observe the occasion on Thursday to provide greater opportunity for the campus community to participate.

Under the theme “Mind. Body. Community.”, Wellness Fest reinforces the importance of taking care of oneself while also supporting others. The event recognizes that stress and mental health challenges can affect anyone and that creating a culture in which people feel comfortable seeking support is an important part of student and employee well-being.

“Mental health is an essential part of overall well-being and plays a critical role in the success of our students, faculty, and staff,” said Dr. Greg Feeney, BCTC Chancellor. “At BCTC, we want every member of our campus community to know that wellness matters and that seeking support is a sign of strength. Wellness Fest provides an opportunity to come together, foster meaningful conversations, learn about available resources, and reinforce the message that no one has to face challenges alone. We are a community that cares, supports one another, and is committed to helping every individual thrive.”

Creating Connections Through Wellness

Wellness Fest is designed to offer participants practical ways to reduce stress, connect with others and learn about resources available both at BCTC and throughout the community.

This year’s activities will encourage participants to relax, relate, release, receive and learn. Activities highlighted for the event include chair massages and yoga, opportunities to connect with others, stress-relieving activities, information about community resources, and drug and alcohol awareness activities. 

“Each year, we continue to host Wellness Fest because we see the value of creating a welcoming space where our students, faculty and staff can connect, decompress and learn about resources that can support them,” said Anita Nelums, Director of Counseling Services at BCTC. “Mental wellness is something we need to talk about throughout the year—not only when someone is experiencing a crisis. By bringing resources, education and wellness activities together in one place, we can help normalize conversations about mental health, encourage people to seek support when they need it and strengthen the sense of community across BCTC.”

Supporting the Whole Student

BCTC Personal Counseling provides support designed to help students navigate personal challenges that may affect their academic experience and overall well-being. Wellness Fest extends that commitment across the campus community by emphasizing prevention, awareness and connection.

The event also provides an opportunity for participants to become more familiar with resources before they need them. By increasing awareness and reducing stigma surrounding mental health, BCTC seeks to foster an environment where individuals feel supported and empowered to prioritize their well-being.

Event Details

Third Annual BCTC Wellness Fest
Thursday, October 8, 2026
11 a.m.–2 p.m.
BCTC Newtown Campus – Science Education Center (SEC)
Lexington, Kentucky