Message from Suzanne Blanchard, Vice-President (Students and Enrolment)

Dear members of the Carleton community,

Carleton has launched consultations to develop the Student Mental Health Framework (SMHF) version 4.0 (2026–2031). Building on our current approach, the framework will help ensure our supports, programs and campus environment continue to reflect student needs, lived experience and evolving best practices. 

We know that mental health and well-being are deeply connected to students’ experiences of learning, belonging and success. We also recognize that needs and experiences differ across our community, which is why listening with care is an important part of this work. 

Since SMHF 3.0 launched, Carleton has implemented or addressed all of its recommendations. We have also continued to strengthen and refine supports, services and campus-wide initiatives, guided by annual reporting that promotes accountability and transparency.

As we develop the next framework, your perspectives will help us better understand and respond to lived experience and evolving student needs. We also want to understand what faculty and staff need to support students effectively, including the challenges encountered and the guidance, resources and connections that would help. Your feedback will also help ensure the framework remains responsive to changing public health and institutional contexts, grounded in the realities of our community and aligned with Bill 166, the Okanagan Charter and the National Standard of Canada for Mental Health and Well-Being for Post-Secondary Students.

You can take part through online consultation questions, facilitated sessions, meetings and other feedback opportunities. Details, timelines and participation links are available on the Student Mental Health Framework consultation website.

Thank you in advance for taking the time to share your perspective. Your contribution will help us develop an updated framework that continues to be practical, responsive and grounded in the experiences of our community. 

Sincerely,

Suzanne Blanchard
Vice‑President (Students and Enrolment)
wellness.carleton.ca