Bobcat ArtsCare

Bobcat ArtsCare began with a simple idea: the arts can be a meaningful part of supporting well-being.

In spring 2024, Dr. Sharon R. Boyle, Associate Professor of Music Therapy and Director of Arts in Health, proposed creating an arts prescribing program at Ohio University based on the successful Stanford Arts Prescribing Program.

That summer, Dr. Boyle began collaborating with Wes Bonadio, Director of Well-Being & Recreation, and Tony Gregory, Assistant Director of Well-Being & Fitness. Additional collaborators joined throughout 2024, including Michelle Gorman, Campus Community Health Worker; Caitlin Kraus, Senior Psychologist/Counselor; and Kimberly Sommers, Associate Director/Training Director from Counseling & Psychological Services.

Bobcat ArtsCare is based on the Arts Prescription framework, which developed from the broader practice of Social Prescribing. Social prescribing connects people with non-medical resources and community experiences that can address needs such as loneliness, social isolation and stress.

At Ohio University, Bobcat ArtsCare builds on this approach by connecting students with arts-based, cultural and nature-based experiences that can support well-being, connection and personal growth.

Dr. Sharon R. Boyle, LPMT, MT-BC, Associate Professor of Music Therapy and Director of Arts in Health

Caitlin Kraus, LPCC-S, LPMT, MT-BC, Senior Counselor in Counseling and Psychological Services

Sarah Ramey, MFA, Assistant Professor of Dance

Rebecca VerNooy, Professor of Instruction in Performance, is a movement theater artist, actor and educator whose work explores physical theater, performance and creative collaboration. Her experience in theater education and movement-based practice brings additional creative opportunities to the Bobcat ArtsCare community.

Jessica Fletcher, Assistant Professor of Instruction in Music Therapy, brings professional experience in music therapy and a particular interest in the ways creative music-making can support well-being. Her background provides valuable connections between music, creativity and health.

Hannah Westfall is a music therapist who brings expertise in using music and creative experiences to support well-being and connection. Through her involvement with Bobcat ArtsCare, she helps connect students with opportunities to experience the benefits of music and the arts.

Ohio University Housing and Residence Life helps bring arts and well-being opportunities directly into students' residential communities. Jefferson Hall's East End provides communal and multipurpose spaces where students can study, gather and participate in campus programming.