Harker, students walk to promote healthy living

Students and faculty wearing sneakers and gym clothes, joined university President Patrick Harker, dressed in a suit and tie, on the patio of the Trabant University Center Tuesday for a morning walk.

The group walked one mile from Trabant, down The Green to Laurel Hall and then circled back to the patio as part of the Healthy HENS-sponsored "Walk with President Harker." The event was held promote healthy lifestyles among students and faculty.

"We have a sister program at Frostburg State University in Maryland, and they walk with a celebrity every year," said Michelle Ness, the Healthy HENS coordinator.  "It occurred to us, we do not need a celebrity because we have President Harker. He is a runner and is active. Why have a celebrity when you have the president?"

Ness said Harker immediately agreed when he was asked to participate in the walk.

Harker said he took part in the walk around because it was a good way to connect with students. He said staying healthy is beneficial and helpful to students' education.

"Part of a student's education is to learn life skills," Harker said.  "If students do not eat healthy and exercise now, they will not do it later in life." 

He said he walks everyday around campus at 6 a.m. with his dog and likes to go cycling with his wife close to the university.

Ness said Healthy HENS planned the walk to show students and faculty how easy it is to get enough exercise.

"The whole purpose is to show that walking is very easy," she said. "There are walking paths, indoor walking trails and outdoor walking trails on campus. Look how easy it is to zip out of class or the office and go for a walk."

Junior Valerie Jennings, who participated in the walk, said the event has inspired her to learn more about Healthy HENS.

"I just found out about Healthy HENS, so I have not used any of the resources except for the classes at the gym," Jennings said.  "But I want to use them."

She said she joined Harker and Healthy HENS for the walk because she believes this easy exercise keeps people healthy now and later. 

"Walking is good exercise no matter your age and background," Jennings said.  "So many future health problems could be prevented by going on a walk now."