Zhiwen Xu

Zhiwen Xu recently graduated from the University of Virginia (UVA) with a B.S. in biochemistry and a B.A. in studio art, both received with distinction. She started working with the Contemplative Sciences Center (CSC) during the fall semester of 2022. She provided administrative, logistical planning, and support to bridge student's contracted independent organization (CIO) and CSC. Passionate about bringing a holistic well-being lifestyle to ground, she served as the president of Mind&Body at UVA from 2021-2023 and initiated events that cultivated healthy habits for student’s mental and physical wellness, including exercise, healthy eating, self-love, empowerment meditation, and more.

Zhiwen's role goes beyond the conceptualization stage as she actively teaches art therapy workshops, from painting nature blindly to curating mood boards, and organizes annual retreats, such as the Wintergreen Resort and Sevenoaks retreats. Beyond her work with the CSC, Zhiwen is a volunteer for Habitat for Humanity, an EMT at the Lake Monticello Volunteer Rescue Squad, and a research assistant for the UVA Department of Orthopaedic Surgery. She is committed to continuing her mission to promote mindfulness and flourishing within the UVA student community. Additionally, Zhiwen will continue serving as a CSC liaison, actively connecting students with CSC's resources and opportunities to enhance their well-being and personal growth.