Campus & Community

Syracuse University and YMCA of Central New York Partner to Bring Diabetes Prevention Program to Faculty and Staff

Wednesday, September 29, 2021, By News Staff

The University continues its partnership with the YMCA of Central New York to facilitate the Diabetes Prevention Program (DPP) for active benefits-eligible faculty and staff. The DPP is a CDC-recognized, evidence-based lifestyle change program developed to prevent or delay the onset of Type 2 diabetes. Individuals who are already diagnosed with Type 1 or Type 2 diabetes do not qualify. To see if the program might be a good fit for you, review the criteria on the program webpage.

The DPP is a small-group program that offers peer support while helping you eat healthier, increase your physical activity and lose weight. Presented by the Wellness Initiative in the Office of Human Resources, the on-campus program requires a one-year commitment with 26 one-hour sessions. The group will be led by Stephanie Michaels, a YMCA lifestyle coach trained in group facilitation.

There is a mandatory orientation session for all participants on Oct. 12 and beginning Oct. 19, the group will meet Tuesdays from 12:30 to 1:30 p.m. in Bird Library, Spector Room (608), as follows:

  • 16 consecutive weekly sessions from Oct. 19-Feb. 15 (no session on Nov. 23 or Dec. 28);
  • every other week for three sessions on Feb. 22, March 8 and March 22; and
  • once per month for six sessions on April 19, May 24, June 21, July 19, Aug. 16 and Sept. 13.

All enrolled participants will receive a free YMCA family membership (more than $300 value!) for the first 20 weeks of the program. Membership can be used at any of the six locations that are part of the YMCA of Central New York.

Faculty and staff are required to make a personal investment of $200 via payroll deductions to participate in the DPP program, but will have the opportunity for full reimbursement by meeting the program’s attendance criteria, as well as their weight and physical activity session submissions.

Those interested in participating should carefully review all of the program information and then email wellness@syr.edu to sign up or learn more.