Tiffin University will partner with the Ohio Department of Public Safety (ODPS) to host “Built for the Badge,” an initiative focused on physical and mental wellness among first responders and college students while introducing students to career opportunities in public safety. The event will take place Friday, October 9, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. in the Hayes Courtyard on Tiffin University’s campus. The event is free and open the to public.
During the event, ODPS will bring its workout trailer and InBody Scanner to campus, where students and representatives from local public safety agencies will participate in a variety of workout sessions together. Activities will emphasize physical fitness, mental wellness and the importance of healthy habits for those pursuing or working in public safety professions. Participating agencies will also have informational tables in Hayes Courtyard, giving students an opportunity to connect directly with local and state public safety professionals and learn more about internships, career opportunities and pathways into the field.
“Built for the Badge aligns with ODPS’ focus on physical fitness and overall wellness among first responders,” said Misty Waller, Director of First Responder Recruitment & Wellness at ODPS. “The initiative also aims to recruit college athletes into public safety professions, recognizing the discipline, focus, teamwork and physical fitness they develop through athletics as qualities that can translate well into these careers.”
“We are excited to welcome the Ohio Department of Public Safety and the Built for the Badge initiative to our campus for what promises to be a truly special event,” said Dr. Lacy Ellis, Dean of the School of Criminal Justice and Social Sciences at Tiffin University. “Public safety professionals give so much to our communities, and this event underscores the fact that their mental health and physical wellness matter just as much as their service.”
“Bringing the Built for the Badge wellness trailer and InBody scanning technology to our campus gives our students, especially our student athletes, a unique opportunity learn more about their own health and wellness, but also to network with the agencies they may one day serve. For our student athletes in particular, this is a natural fit: the discipline, dedication and scheduling demands they already manage every day translate directly into successful careers in public safety.”
We’re grateful for this partnership and look forward to seeing our courtyard filled with first responders, students and community partners working, connecting and supporting one another.”