Meet Marion (Mari)

Marion is Tiffin University’s campus cat with in our Whiskers for Wellness program. Marion is part of an effort to create a welcoming, supportive environment where students can take a break, connect, and practice healthy ways of managing stress.

What is Whiskers for Wellness?

Whiskers for Wellness provides students with an opportunity to interact with a friendly campus cat in a relaxed environment. Spending time with animals can provide a welcome pause during a busy day and may support connection, relaxation, and overall wellbeing.

Why Cats and Wellness?

Research involving university students has found reductions in acute stress and anxiety following animal-assisted interventions. Marion is a campus cat, not a therapy animal, and interaction with her is not a mental health treatment, she provides students with an opportunity to pause, connect, and take a brief break from the demands of campus life.

A Space for Everyone

We recognize that not every student will want to interact with Marion. The Counseling and Wellness Office maintains a cat-free counseling office for students who are sensitive or allergic to cats. This space is equipped with a HEPA filter and has never housed Marion. Students are always welcome to access Counseling and Wellness services without interacting with Marion.

Marion’s Wellbeing Matters, Too

Marion’s health and welfare are a priority. The program includes established procedures for animal care, sanitation, health monitoring, student interactions, and responding to concerns. Marion’s care is overseen by the Director of Counseling and Wellness in collaboration with a veterinary provider. Students are asked to respect Marion’s boundaries and follow posted guidelines when interacting with her.