The study, conducted by data ranking firm Sperling’s BestPlaces, examined the resources and services offered by university health centers, special programs engaging students and the websites where students could find information, said Bert Sperling, president of the organization.

“(MSU) continued the good work that it’s been doing,” Sperling said. “One thing that helped (improve the ranking) was the hours of operation. These are important because (the health center) is more readily available for students that can’t always come in from eight to five.”

MSU took a second place position nationally to Columbia University in the report. Ohio State University, the University of Michigan and Brown University rounded out the top five, respectively.

Although he’s not surprised MSU is No. 2 in the country, Olin Health Center’s health education services coordinator Dennis Martell said he won’t be satisfied until MSU is No. 1.
“No matter where we stand, it’s important that we get out information about sexual health,” Martell said.

“We have to understand that sex is a natural and healthy part of living. We believe as a campus that promoting positive sexual health can do nothing but good for our students.”

Martell said MSU has one of the most aggressive condom distribution programs in the country through a strong partnership with the MSU Department of Residence Life. Theatre Troupe, a “Sexposure,” broadcast with Impact (89-FM) and peer education programs are other resources that Olin Health Center uses to reach out to students, he said.

“(Sex) today is about much more than avoiding the topic,” he said. “We focus on how to talk about sexuality, how to feel comfortable with your body and body image and how to feel comfortable in and navigate relationships.”

A collaborative campus view of promoting good sexual health is an important piece of the puzzle, Martell said. The university’s sexual assault program also is one of the best in the country, he said.

“We have a very responsible population of students,” he said.

“Without information, it’s hard to be responsible and without support it’s hard to be responsible.”

As a dormitory resident, hospitality business freshman Jim McHenry said the “Condom Connection” program — through which resident mentors distribute free condoms — is a good practice.

“Whenever you need a condom, you can just grab one,” he said.

“And I think more people should use it and take advantage of it. People are pretty smart here, and I think people here just use their heads.”

Sperling said the best part of the study, which has been conducted throughout the past five years, is researchers see that schools only are improving in promoting student sexual health.

“People are talking about it more,” he said.

“It’s not something to be snickered about, a ‘don’t ask, don’t tell’ kind of thing. People realize it’s a part of our lives and it’s okay to discuss it more.”

Martell said although MSU has risen in its ranking and been recognized for it, the university will continue to make progress in the future.

“There are certain populations we still need to reach out to with tailored information and support,” he said.

“A sexually healthy campus is a lot more than just handing out condoms. A sexually healthy campus is one that also has respect, understanding and tolerance for the diversity in sexual practices, body images, orientations, genders and views that are inherent and natural in a university community.”

Staff writer Kyle Campbell contributed to this report.