Wellness
ASI Student Wellness Initiative
A Better Campus, Built by Students
The student-led ASI Student Wellness Initiative is bringing real improvements to campus, shaped by the voices of thousands of students.
From expanded resources to upgraded spaces, these changes address what matters most to you. Through surveys, forums, and direct outreach, student input guided every step—ensuring a better experience for current and future students.
Now that the initiative has passed, we’re focused on making these benefits a reality. Stay informed and get involved as we build a campus that works for you!
Coming in Fall 2025
- A $105K increase is scholarships
- A $100K increase in funding for student clubs & orgs
- A fall concert!
- Student Wellness Ambassadors, freeing up funding for Counseling & Psychological Services (CAPS) to hire more counselors
Follow ASI on Instagram for the most up-to-date news about ASWI!
All students, regardless of race, sex, color, ethnicity, national origin, or any other protected status, who are interested in learning more about Associated Students Inc. are welcome.
For additional information regarding specific services, please inquire within the department.
Exciting changes are on the way! The ASWI is designed to support students’ mental, physical, and emotional well-being. From dedicated wellness spaces to expanded resources, this initiative will provide more opportunities to focus on health and balance. Explore the key highlights of what’s coming and how it will enhance student life.
8 Dimensions of Wellness
Discover the 8 Dimensions of Wellness with ASWI
The ASWI is built on the 8 Dimensions of Wellness, a holistic approach to well-being that recognizes the interconnected aspects of health and personal growth.
- Physical – Stay active, eat well, and rest.
- Emotional – Cultivate resilience and positive relationships.
- Spiritual – Find purpose and connection in life.
- Intellectual – Keep learning and expanding your skills.
- Social – Build meaningful, supportive relationships.
- Environmental – Thrive in a healthy, sustainable space.
- Occupational – Balance work, academics, and fulfillment.
- Financial – Manage money wisely for stability and peace of mind.
At ASWI, we’re here to support your well-being—because when you thrive, so does your future!
New Wellness Center
A holistic wellness facility will be designed to support students’ mental, physical, and emotional well-being. This future space will provide essential health services, relaxation areas, and resources to help you thrive.
Some possible amenities include:
- Massage therapy and massage chairs
- Nap pods and safe sleeping area
- Yoga, Pilates, and meditation/prayer space
- Outdoor relaxation areas
- Comprehensive wellness programming
- Quiet and comfortable places to relax
What has been done so far as part of the process?
- November 2022: A campus-wide survey gathered 3,306 student responses to assess CSUF’s health and wellness needs.
- January 2023: In-person sessions allowed students to provide additional feedback through qualitative research engagement.
- February 2023: The Student Fee Advisory Committee approved ASI’s request to move forward with an alternative consultation process to share information and gather more student input.
- March 2023: ASI launched the alternative consultation process with interactive showroom events, giving students hands-on opportunities to learn about the initiative.
- April 2023: The Board of Directors (12-1) and Student Fee Advisory Committee (12-0) officially endorsed ASI’s Student Wellness Initiative.
- Fall 2023: Student leaders continued engaging the student body, gathering further feedback on the initiative.
- Spring 2024: ASI refined the initiative to focus on facility construction and expansion, including a new Wellness Center, consolidation of basic needs services, and expansion of the Titan Student Union and Student Recreation Center—all while considering the impact of a 6% annual tuition increase over the next five years.
- December 2024: The Board of Directors (16-0) reaffirmed its support, and the Student Fee Advisory Committee formally recommended the initiative for approval.
- March 2025: President Ronald Rochon and ASI officially announced the approval of the ASI Student Wellness Initiative, marking a major step forward for student wellness and campus development at CSUF.
Financial Impact & Fee Increase
What is the proposed fee increase and fee schedule?
The mandatory Student Center fee, one of nine Category II fees, would increase in phases. The proposed fee schedule is as follows:
- 2025-2026 will see an increase of $40/semester, $80/year, starting the process of designing spaces and funding the management of construction projects.
- 2026-2027 will see an increase of $55/semester, $110/year, beginning construction, hiring Wellness and Operational staff.
- 2027-2028 will see an increase of $106/semester, $212/year opening the buildings/expansion begin to open for student use.
- 2028-2029 will see an increase of $164/semester, $328/year.
Total Campus Union Fee Per Semester by 2028-29: $536
Wellness Improvements
How We Compare: Union Fees, Wellness Centers, and Campus Expansions
Student Engagement & Future Steps
Comprehensive Outreach Efforts
What is the ASI Student Wellness Initiative?
The ASI Student Wellness Initiative is a student-led project to improve campus health and wellness resources and programs in service to CSUF students.
What has been done so far as part of the process?
- November 2022: A campus-wide survey gathered 3,306 student responses to assess CSUF’s health and wellness needs.
- January 2023: In-person sessions allowed students to provide additional feedback through qualitative research engagement.
- February 2023: The Student Fee Advisory Committee approved ASI’s request to move forward with an alternative consultation process to share information and gather more student input.
- March 2023: ASI launched the alternative consultation process with interactive showroom events, giving students hands-on opportunities to learn about the initiative.
- April 2023: The Board of Directors (12-1) and Student Fee Advisory Committee (12-0) officially endorsed ASI’s Student Wellness Initiative.
- Fall 2023: Student leaders continued engaging the student body, gathering further feedback on the initiative.
- Spring 2024: ASI refined the initiative to focus on facility construction and expansion, including a new Wellness Center, consolidation of basic needs services, and expansion of the Titan Student Union and Student Recreation Center—all while considering the impact of a 6% annual tuition increase over the next five years.
- December 2024: The Board of Directors (16-0) reaffirmed its support, and the Student Fee Advisory Committee formally recommended the initiative for approval.
- March 2025: President Ronald Rochon and ASI officially announced the approval of the ASI Student Wellness Initiative, marking a major step forward for student wellness and campus development at CSUF.
How will the ASI Student Wellness Initiative help CSUF students?
The goal of the ASI Student Wellness Initiative would help expand facilities to increase resources, programs, information, and events that will help the student body with their health and wellness.
Why is ASI doing an ASI Student Wellness Initiative?
CSUF students need and deserve more facilities and services to cater to student well-being According to the American College Health Association’s survey (ACHA-National College Health Assessment) of CSUF students, anxiety, depression, stress, and sleep difficulties were the top factors negatively impacting their academic performance. In addition, 20% of student respondents reported receiving psychological or mental health services within the last 12 months.
Even with robust counseling and psychological services available on campus, our students need more significant support. ASI has recognized opportunities to enhance students’ basic and wellness needs. Basic-needs services on the CSUF campus are currently based in three separate areas: McCarthy Hall, the Titan Student Union, and Titan Hall. With the presently disjointed bases for such kindred services, students seeking assistance may need to visit more than one base or may visit the wrong base seeking basic-needs support.
Clubs and Organizations, events and concerts, and services and programs for students are facing funding challenges because of increased costs related to building maintenance and repairs, employee costs, and minimum wage.
The Student Recreation Center was built half the size necessary for the student population of CSUF; and the Titan Student Union Food Court is crowded, outdated, and lacks affordability and variety.
What is Alternative Consultation?
Alternative consultation is an alternative to the referendum process to ensure appropriate and meaningful consultation from the campus community, particularly students, when adjusting a Category II mandatory fee, like the Campus Union Fee. Alternative consultation strategies depend on input from the student body association and the Student Fee Advisory Committee to ensure the process is transparent and meaningful.
The alternative consultation process is designed to 1) engage large portions of the student body; 2) educate students on the issues and components of the ASI Student Wellness Initiative; and 3) gather information to shape the improvements to ASI.
For additional information, read Executive Order 1102 and the CSU Fee Policy on Referendums and Alternative Consultation Processes.
Why Alternative Consultation?
We recognize the need to support CSUF students’ health and wellness. We have done the studies, read the research, talked with students and the broader campus community, and heard the concerns and the demands. Now, we want to know more! Alternative consultation means we are committed to talking with as many students and stakeholders as possible. In the simplest terms, we are committed to sharing information, listening to what students want and need, and how we can do that responsibly and transparently.
How is ASI funded?
ASI is funded through mandatory student fees (Category II fees) that every enrolled student contributes to maintain the existing building, provide programs and services, and pay off the mortgage/debt of the facilities. The Campus Union Fee supports programming, staffing, maintenance, and operations of the Titan Student Union and the Student Recreation Center. Similar fees are at every CSU supporting their ASI and student facilities. The last time the Union fee had a major increase was the year 2000. The fee has been incorporated with a Consumer Price Index (CPI) increase and is adjusted every 3 years. CPI is attached to most fees to ensure expenses can be covered due to inflationary increases.
What is the current fee?
The current union fee is $330 per academic year.
What does the Campus Union Fee support?
This fee covers the cost of construction and operation of the Titan Student Union and the Student Recreation Center. ASI is responsible for all the expenses of staffing and operating these facilities, debt service, building improvements, and repairs. Staffing costs, particularly student staff, represent a large portion of operating costs. It also funds programs, events, and services within the facilities.
When would the increased Union fee go into effect?
The plan would be a phased in approach over four years, beginning in Fall 2025.
Will my financial aid cover it?
The Campus Union Fee is a mandatory student fee and would factor into students’ total cost of education and impacts on estimated family contribution. Therefore, financial aid (including grants and loans) can be used to cover increases in these mandatory fees. If the fee does increase, individual student financial aid may also increase to cover the fee increase. Always defer to the financial aid office with any questions related to student fees and/or financial aid.
- Based on information from the CSUF Office of Financial Aid, approximately 75% of CSUF students receive Financial Aid for their education experience. Approximately 40% of CSUF students receive the Middle-Class Scholarship that may be used toward payment of fees. Campus fees, including this increase, can be covered by certain types of financial aid (for example: Middle-Class Scholarship, scholarships, grants). But not all types of aid can be applied.
What will the ASI Student Wellness Initiative offer students?
Based on feedback from students during the alternative consultation process in Spring 2023-2024, the ASI Student Wellness Initiative might include such things as:
- Wellness Center
- Centralized basic needs
- Expanded and modernized Titan Student Union
- Expanded and modernized Student Recreation Center
- Enhanced ASI’s current programming & services
How will the new spaces look?
The final “design” of the facilities will be decided through shared governance with student leaders and your feedback. We will include the involvement of students and the campus community in many elements of the design process.
If approved, when will the renovations start and how long will they take?
Programming and services would start in Fall 2025. Infrastructure projects would begin no earlier than the summer of 2026 and are estimated to last approximately two years, depending on any phasing of facility improvements.
Would ASI services and facilities still be open during construction?
We intend for the construction to progress in phases to ensure the buildings remain open for operation for the campus community during the project. ASI is committed to reducing as much disruption as possible and continuing to offer dining, programs, and services to students.
How do our Union/Student Center fees compare to other CSUs?
On average, CSU Union/Student Center fees are between $121 to $460 per semester, as of the 2024 – 2025 academic year. CSUF’s current Union/Student Center fee is $170.66 per semester (or $341 per year).
While we have the largest enrollment in the entire CSU system—comprised of 23 campuses—we are ranked 17th as far as total mandatory fees, including in the Union/Student Center fees category. This means 16 other CSUs charge students more than CSUF students are charged. This increasing difference in fees has caused disparities in the resources offered at CSUF.
How many student employees work for ASI?
Associated Student Inc. is one of the top employers of students on campus. Throughout the year, ASI employs almost 400 students. The ASI Student Wellness Initiative will offer opportunities for an additional 75 student jobs.
Don’t we already have a wellness center?
Student Affairs currently provides a variety of wellness services through TitanWell, Student Health Center, and CAPS (Counseling & Psychological Services), including a wellness room. The ASI Student Wellness Initiative will provide funding to services that are complementary to the existing framework of services provided on campus. Taking a holistic approach that considers the advantages of a facilities expansion for our large campus population, this initiative endeavors to address the many dimensions of wellness.
What other CSUs have a wellness center?
Cal Poly San Luis Obispo, Cal State Northridge, and Chico State currently have stand-alone wellness centers. San Marcos, Dominguez Hills, and Sac State have recently approved a fee increase. Many other CSUs have either wellness centers in existing student unions or rec centers or are currently looking for dedicated space to offer wellness services.
What other CSUs have expanded, rebuilt, or renovated their student center spaces?
The following CSU campuses have renovated, expanded, or built new student unions or recreation centers in the last ten years:
- CSU Dominguez Hills
- CSU San Marcos
- CSU Bakersfield
- CSU Long Beach
- CSU San Bernardino
- Sacramento State
- Stanislaus State
- San Diego State
Who ensures the fees collected will be used for the ASI programs and services?
CSU Executive Order EO 1102 states the following about mandatory fees such as this fee (Category II): “The campus president shall provide to the fee advisory committee a report of all fees in Categories II, III, IV and V. New fees, fee increases, total revenue and unexpended balances should be included.
Each campus shall report annually to the chancellor, for the most recently completed fiscal year, a complete inventory of all fees in categories II, III, IV and V, including current year fee rates, the total revenue collected in the past year for each fee, and the remaining balance for each fee. The Category II fee report shall be presented to the board by the chancellor to allow the board to consider the level and range of campus mandatory fees charged to students.”
Not only is our university mandated to report on the use of this fee, but as the organization led by students for students, ASI will ensure that the increased union fee is going towards programs and services deemed important during the alternative consultation process.
Why can’t this money be applied towards academics?
Student body center fees can only be used for student-led organizations like the Associated Students Inc. ASI only has legal authority over the facilities, programs, and services we run and operate. Academic facilities must be funded by the State of California and CSU.
How will students continue to stay involved in the process?
Student input is critical in this process to shape the ASI Student Wellness Initiative through the alternative consultation process and beyond. Students guide the operations and direction through the ASI Board of Directors elected by the student body. The Student Fee Advisory Committee, where students comprise a majority of members, will make a final recommendation to the University President whether to proceed with the ASI Student Wellness Initiative. Participation by this group, other stakeholder groups, and the general student will occur throughout the programming and design process. After all the feedback and data is gathered, ASI will share the results with the committee on Dec.5, 2024.
Centralize Basic Needs
Studies show when students have insecurity in one area, they are most likely to have another. Getting the nerve to ask for assistance in one basic need can be difficult for students, let alone having to do it several more times. That is why the ASWI is planning to centralize all of CSUF’s basic needs services in one location. The one-stop shop will likely include:
- ASI Food Pantry
- CSUF Basic Needs Services
- Tuffy’s Career Closet
- CalFresh
- Teaching/demo kitchen
- Cold storage lockers
- Laundry facility
Expanding Student Recreation Center
The Student Recreation Center (SRC) is more than just a gym—it’s a hub for student wellness, community, and personal growth. As CSUF’s student body grows, so does the demand for accessible fitness, recreation, and mental well-being resources. Expanding the SRC will provide additional workout spaces, updated equipment, and new wellness programming to meet the needs of all Titans. With more students seeking opportunities to de-stress, stay active, and build healthy habits, this expansion ensures that every Titan has the space and resources to prioritize their physical and mental well-being.
Some upgrades can include:
- Expanded weight room
- More cardio room
- Functional Training Areas
- More dance space
- Improved intramural fields
Expanding Titan Student Union
The Titan Student Union (TSU) is the heart of student life at CSUF, offering spaces to study, connect, and unwind. By expanding and modernizing the TSU, we are creating more collaborative study areas, increasing seating in the food court, and adding new spaces to enhance student engagement. The TSU is a place where students can come together to build a sense of belonging, access resources, and make the most of their college experience. This expansion will allow ASI to better serve the diverse needs of students and ensure that the TSU remains a welcoming and functional space for all.
Some upgrades can include:
- Modernized food court
- Affordable food vendors and healthier options
- Quiet/study lounge space
- Group study areas
- Offices for campus partners
Enhancing ASI's Current Programs & Services
ASI is committed to supporting student success beyond the classroom by expanding essential programs and services that address wellness, basic needs, and student engagement. Increased funding will provide more scholarships, enhance club programming, and improve services like Tuffy’s Basic Needs Center, ASI Food Pantry, and mental wellness initiatives. By consolidating these resources into a dedicated Student Wellness Center, students will have a one-stop destination for support, ensuring that every Titan has the tools they need to thrive academically, socially, and personally.
Benefits will include:
-
- Expanded ASI programming, events, and concerts for students
- More available funds for scholarships
- More resources for Inter-Club Councils
- Repairs and improvements to aging TSU and SRC
General Overview
What inspired the creation of the ASI Student Wellness Initiative?
ASI student leaders recognized growing student wellness challenges, including increased anxiety, sleep deprivation, and financial insecurity. They wanted to find long-term solutions to enhance student well-being.
What specific wellness challenges were student leaders noticing on campus?
Key challenges included mental health struggles, lack of accessible wellness resources, financial instability, food insecurity, and limited study and recreational spaces
Why did ASI do an ASI Student Wellness Initiative?
CSUF students need more facilities and services to support their well-being. According to the ACHA-National College Health Assessment, anxiety, depression, stress, and sleep difficulties are the top factors harming CSUF students’ academic performance, with 20% seeking mental health services in the past year.
Despite strong campus counseling services, more support is needed. ASI sees opportunities to enhance wellness and basic-needs services, which are currently spread across McCarthy Hall, the Titan Student Union, and Titan Hall—creating barriers for students seeking help.
Funding for clubs, events, and student programs is strained due to rising costs for maintenance, staffing, and minimum wage. Meanwhile, the Student Recreation Center is half the size needed for CSUF’s student population, and the Titan Student Union Food Court is overcrowded, outdated, and lacks affordable options.
How will the ASI Student Wellness Initiative help CSUF students?
The goal of the ASI Student Wellness Initiative would help expand facilities to increase resources, programs, information, and events that will help the student body with their health and wellness
How does ASWI align with the university’s Strategic Plan and long-term goals?
ASWI supports Goal 2: Foster Student Engagement and Well-Being and Goal 4: Increase Campus Accessibility & Spaces by expanding resources that directly impact student retention, success, and overall wellness.
How many student employees work for ASI?
ASI is one of the top employers of students on campus. Throughout the year, ASI employs almost 400 students. The ASWI will offer opportunities for an additional 75 student jobs.
Don’t we already have a wellness center?
The Division of Student Affairs offers wellness services through TitanWELL, the Student Health Center, and Counseling & Psychological Services (CAPS), including a wellness room.
The ASI Student Wellness Initiative will fund services that complement existing campus resources. With a holistic approach and a focus on facility expansion, this initiative aims to support the diverse wellness needs of CSUF’s large student population.
Wellness Solutions
What are the main benefits students will see from the ASWI?
The plan includes a new Student Wellness Center, expanded Basic Needs Hub, upgraded Student Recreation Center, and more study and food spaces in the Titan Student Union (TSU).
How do the proposed programs and services support the “8 Dimensions of Wellness”?
ASWI addresses all eight dimensions, including mental health (emotional wellness), career support (occupational wellness), and financial assistance (financial wellness).
Can you explain the vision for the new Wellness Center?
The program is still being developed but could provide access to services that many students cannot afford off campus. Massage therapy, acupuncture, yoga, stress reduction workshops, napping areas, etc.
How will the Basic Needs Hub improve existing resources for students?
It will combine Tuffy’s Basic Needs Center, ASI Food Pantry, CalFresh, and Tuffy’s Closet into a one-stop shop for students needing food, clothing, and financial assistance.
What kind of upgrades will be made to the Student Recreation Center?
The upgrades include expanded fitness programs, a new dance studio, renovated weight and cardio areas, and additional wellness-focused programming. An improvement to the Intramural Fields also is anticipated.
What updates are planned for the Titan Student Union?
The updates include more study areas, an expanded food court, and upgraded facilities for students to relax, eat, and collaborate.
Are there plans to expand mental health services as part of this initiative?
Yes. The ASWI will provide funding for the student wellness ambassadors in TitanWELL so that they can use those funds to hire more Counseling & Psychological Services (CAPS) counselors.
Financial Impact & Fee Increase
What is the proposed fee increase and fee schedule?
The mandatory Student Center fee, one of nine Category II fees, would increase in phases. The proposed fee schedule is as follows:
- 2025-2026 will see an increase of $40/semester, $80/year, starting the process of designing spaces and funding the management of construction projects.
- 2026-2027 will see an increase of $55/semester, $110/year, beginning construction, hiring Wellness and Operational staff.
- 2027-2028 will see an increase of $106/semester, $212/year opening the buildings/expansion begin to open for student use.
- 2028-2029 will see an increase of $164/semester, $328/year.
Total Campus Union Fee Per Semester by 2028-29: $536
What is the current fee?
As of spring 2025, the current union fee is $330 per academic year. Beginning in Fall 2025, the $40 per semester ASWI increase will be in effect.
Will my financial aid cover the increase?
Yes. The ASWI is part of the Campus Union Fee, which is a mandatory student fee that factors into students’ total cost of education and impact on estimated family contribution. Therefore, financial aid (including grants and loans) can be used to cover the fee increase.
Based on information from the CSUF Office of Financial Aid:
- About 75 percent of CSUF students receive Financial Aid for their education
- Approximately 40 percent of CSUF students receive Middle Class Scholarships that may be used toward payment of fees.
Campus fees, including the ASWI increase, can be covered by certain types of financial aid, but not all types of aid can be applied. Always defer to the Office of Financial Aid with any questions related to student fees and/or financial aid.
How is ASI funded?
ASI is funded by mandatory student fees (Category II) that all enrolled students pay to maintain facilities, support programs, and cover debt.
The Campus Union Fee funds programming, staffing, maintenance, and operations for the Titan Student Union and Student Recreation Center. Similar fees exist at all CSU campuses. ASI is responsible for all the expenses of staffing and operating these facilities, debt service, building improvements, and repairs. Staffing costs, particularly student staff, represent a large portion of operating costs. It also funds programs, events, and services within the facilities
The last major Union fee increase was in 2000, with adjustments every three years based on the Consumer Price Index (CPI) to keep up with inflation.
Who ensures the fees collected will be used for the ASI programs and services?
CSU Executive Order (EO) 1102 requires campuses to report all Category II, III, IV, and V fees, including new fees, increases, total revenue, and unspent balances.
Each campus must submit an annual fee inventory to the Chancellor, who presents Category II fees to the Board of Trustees for review. CSUF is mandated to report on this fee’s use. As a student-led organization, ASI will ensure the increased Union fee funds programs and services prioritized during the alternative consultation process.
Why can’t this money be applied towards academics?
Student body center fees can only be used for student-led organizations like the Associated Students Inc. ASI only has legal authority over the facilities, programs, and services we run and operate. Academic facilities must be funded by the State of California and CSU.
How will students be able to see that their money is being used effectively?
ASI will provide regular updates, project timelines, and spending reports to maintain transparency.
How We Compare: Union Fees, Wellness Centers, and Campus Expansions
What other CSUs have a wellness center?
Cal Poly San Luis Obispo, Cal State Northridge, and Chico State currently have stand-alone wellness centers. San Marcos, Dominguez Hills, and Sac State have recently approved a fee increase. Many other CSUs have either wellness centers in existing student unions or rec centers or are currently looking for dedicated space to offer wellness services.
What other CSUs have expanded, rebuilt, or renovated their student center spaces?
The following CSU campuses have renovated, expanded, or built new student unions or recreation centers in the last 10 years:
- CSU Dominguez Hills
- CSU San Marcos
- CSU Bakersfield
- CSU San Bernardino
- Long Beach State
- Sacramento State
- Stanislaus State
- San Diego State
How do our Union/Student Center fees compare to other CSUs?
On average, CSU Union/Student Center fees are between $121 to $460 per semester, as of the 2024 – 2025 academic year. CSUF’s current Union/Student Center fee is $170.66 per semester (or $341 per year).
While we have the largest enrollment in the entire CSU system—comprised of 22 campuses—we are ranked 17th as far as total mandatory fees, including in the Union/Student Center fees category. This means 16 other CSUs charge students more than CSUF students are charged. This increasing difference in fees has caused disparities in the resources offered at CSUF.
Communication & Outreach Efforts
What has been done so far?
- November 2022: A campus-wide survey gathered 3,306 student responses to assess CSUF’s health and wellness needs.
- January 2023: In-person sessions allowed students to provide additional feedback through qualitative research engagement.
- February 2023: The Student Fee Advisory Committee approved ASI’s request to move forward with an alternative consultation process to share information and gather more student input.
- March 2023: ASI launched the Alternative Consultation process with interactive showroom events, giving students hands-on opportunities to learn about the initiative.
- April 2023: The Board of Directors (12-1) and Student Fee Advisory Committee (12-0) officially endorsed ASI’s Student Wellness Initiative.
- Fall 2023: Student leaders continued engaging the student body, gathering further feedback on the initiative.
- Spring 2024: ASI refined the initiative to focus on facility construction and expansion, including a new Wellness Center, consolidation of basic needs services, and expansion of the Titan Student Union and Student Recreation Center—all while considering the impact of a 6% annual tuition increase over the next five years.
- December 2024: The Board of Directors (16-0) reaffirmed its support, and the Student Fee Advisory Committee formally recommended the initiative for approval.
- March 2025: President Ronald Rochon and ASI officially announced the approval of the ASI Student Wellness Initiative, marking a major step forward for student wellness and campus development at CSUF.
What is the Alternative Consultation process and what steps does it require?
When a university president initiates the alternative consultation process, ASI and the fee advisory committee help develop strategies to ensure the process is transparent. This process involves gathering input from a representative sample of the student body, which should include students from many aspects of campus life. Results of the alternative consultation process are taken into consideration by the fee advisory committee and the president.
Why was Alternative Consultation chosen instead of a student referendum?
While CSU policy requires a student fee referendum is conducted before adjusting or establishing mandatory fees, a university president may waive the referendum requirement if the president determines that a referendum is not the best mechanism to achieve appropriate and meaningful consultation.
Given the complexity of ASWI, former CSUF President Fram Virjee initiated an Alternative Consultation process to ensure deeper student engagement and a thorough understanding of the proposed fee increase and benefits.
What were some of the key insights from the focus groups and student surveys?
More than 5,000 student survey responses indicated strong support (69%-86.1%) for investments in mental health, basic needs resources, expanded recreation facilities, and wellness programs following the Spring 2023 outreach process.
How did ASI ensure that a diverse range of student voices were heard?
ASI conducted focus groups, classroom presentations, tabling, online surveys, social media outreach, and open forums, ensuring feedback from a wide range of students.
When looking at prior CSUF alternative processes, the ASWI engaged significantly more students than ever before. Over two rounds of the process, we engaged over 14,000 students, held 400 presentations, hosted 66 tabling events, received more than 5,000 surveys, and received over 111,000 impressions on social media regarding ASWI.
Were there any major concerns raised by students, and how were they addressed?
Some students expressed concerns about affordability. ASI addressed this by phasing in the fee increase gradually over four years.
What were the most surprising findings from the student feedback?
Students overwhelmingly supported the Basic Needs Hub, showing a strong need for food, housing, and financial assistance resources.
Students facing financial challenges strongly support additional scholarships and financial aid. Expanding the SRC remains a popular idea, especially to ease afternoon crowding. Overall, there is significant support for the Wellness Center.
When informed about the tuition increase, students expressed understanding but still supported the ASWI, as they could see the direct benefits of their fees. In contrast, many felt uncertain about where their tuition money goes.
How did student leaders work with different CSUF presidents throughout the process?
ASI engaged with three CSUF presidents over two and a half years, adjusting plans as needed while maintaining strong student support.
Student Engagement & Future Steps
What will the ASI Student Wellness Initiative offer students?
Based on feedback from students during the alternative consultation process in Spring 2023-2024, the ASI Student Wellness Initiative might include such things as:
- Wellness Center
- Centralized basic needs
- Expanded and modernized Titan Student Union
- Expanded and modernized Student Recreation Center
- Enhanced ASI’s current programming & services
How will the new spaces look?
The final “design” of the facilities will be decided through shared governance with student leaders and your feedback. We will include the involvement of students and the campus community in many elements of the design process.
When will the renovations start and how long will they take?
Programming and services will start in Fall 2025. Infrastructure projects would begin no earlier than the summer of 2026 and are estimated to last approximately two years, depending on any phasing of facility improvements.
Would ASI services and facilities still be open during construction?
We intend for the construction to progress in phases to ensure the buildings remain open for operation for the campus community during the project. ASI is committed to reducing as much disruption as possible and continuing to offer dining, programs, and services to students.
How will students continue to have a say in the development and implementation of ASWI?
Students can join focus groups, ASI committees, and attend open forums to provide ongoing feedback. Student leaders who are elected by their peers will be making the decisions. ASI is committed to ongoing, transparent communication with the student body as the project moves forward. Students also may volunteer, attend ASI meetings, or serve on student advisory boards for wellness programs.
What are the next steps for ASWI now that it has been approved?
The process now progresses to project planning, design, and securing funding approvals before construction begins.
When can students expect to see the first changes take place on campus?
The first program expansions are expected to launch by fall 2025. More funding will be available for student clubs and organizations, more money for ASI scholarships will be available, and ASI will launch its first Fall Concert.
2025-26
- Expanded Club funding
- Wellness programming & workshops
- Providing funding for the TitanWell Peer Health Ambassadors program to free up state funds for CAPS to hire more counselors
- Expanded student programs and events
- Expanded scholarships for students
- Wellness collaboration efforts with colleges
- Planning stage begins for facility updates & long-term improvement
2026-27
- Additional Club funding
- Expanded wellness programming & workshops
- Funding for additional CAPS counselor continues
- Funding for Peer Health Ambassadors continues
- Additional expansion of ASI student programs & collaborations
- Expanded scholarships for students
- New Wellness courses & services in Colleges.
- Begin centralization of Basic Needs services
- Design planning for SRC, TSU & Wellness Center begins with feasibility study
2027-28
- All previous offerings in place
- Design work and building permits
- Relocate some TSU services to alternative campus locations
- SRC temporarily redesigned to allow for expansion & space repurposing
2028-29
- All previous offerings in place
- Construction begins
2029-30
- All previous offerings in place
- Construction continues
- Some services begin to come online
2030-31
- Construction completed
- All student wellness programs & services are offered
- New Wellness Center opens for use
- Centralized Basic Needs is completed
- Expanded & renovated SRC & TSU are available
- Temporarily relocated services return to SRC & TSU
Alternative Consultation is a structured process used to engage students in meaningful discussions about proposed fee adjustments when a traditional student referendum may not be the most effective approach. Instead of a simple vote, this method allows for deeper conversations, ensuring students have the opportunity to fully understand the proposal and provide informed feedback.
For the ASWI, former CSUF President Fram Virjee determined that Alternative Consultation would be the best approach due to the complexity of the proposal.
Alternative Consultation Timeline
- Fall 2022 – Spring 2023: Student focus groups & surveys shaped initial ASWI plan.
- Spring 2023: Campus engagement through tabling, classroom presentations, and feedback sessions. ASI Board of Directors and CSUF Student Fee Advisory Committee vote to recommend approval of ASWI.
- Fall 2023 – Spring 2024: Second round of consultation after CSU tuition increase; over 75% of student respondents supported the ASWI fee increase.
- December 2024: ASI Board of Directors and CSUF Student Fee Advisory Committee unanimously reaffirmed support for ASWI.
Alternative Consultation Data
- Students Engaged: 14,064
- Presentations Given: 388
- Kickoff and Pop-Up Info Sessions: 9
- Tabling & Showroom: 66
- Social Media Impressions: 111,210
- Surveys Received: 5,217