Sustainable Happiness

Photo Credit: Shannon Coulter-Low
Sustainable Happiness is “happiness that contributes to individual, community or global well-being and does not exploit other people, the environment, or future generations.” Dr. Catherine O’Brien
Offered to both students and staff, the Sustainable Happiness (SH) Certificate program combines positive psychology with concepts of sustainability and well-being. Used to enhance personal and professional well-being and sustainability at Dawson College since 2015, the Certificate is now offered at JAC by trained employees who have completed their six-month Facilitator Training Program. Our first student cohort was in Spring of 2022 and the first staff cohort was in Winter 2023.
Participants in the Certificate are introduced to the concept of Sustainable Happiness and explore its implications, both personally and professionally. This is an experiential and applied certificate. Key topics include: sustainability, connecting with Nature, positive psychology, well-being, happiness, and healthy/sustainable lifestyles.
Individually, in pairs or smaller groups they will:
- work together in a spirit of togetherness and collaboration to support each other’s happiness and well-being.
- learn how the choices they make in their personal and/or professional life affect the environment and what they could do to live in a more sustainable manner.
- identify how they are contributing to Living Campus and well-being for all – individually and collectively.
- create a “Pay it forward” project that will include members of your community and/or have a lasting impact on your community.
For more information or to sign up for future sessions, contact: sustainability@johnabbott.qc.ca