World Mental Health Day is Oct. 10. It's also the day that 91ֿ is kicking off its university-wide mental health campaign.
You may have already seen posters and other messaging around the university, some featuring 91ֿ students, faculty and staff who have volunteered to be the “faces of the campaign” as mental health advocates. The kickoff event runs from 4:30-6:30 p.m. in the Kent Student Center Ballroom. There will be a discussion surrounding mental health and a keynote address by licensed therapist Kier Gaines.
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Creating the Campaign
The project was born as an initiative from Talea Drummer-Ferrell, Ph.D., associate vice president and dean of students in the Division of Student Life. Angelique Daniels, director of marketing research and strategy in the Division of University Communications and Marketing, was asked to be part of the committee responsible for the second phase of the mental health work being done around the university. Her role was as a marketing expert to help with the development of a website and video.
Daniels asked to propose a full marketing and communications strategy encompassing all eight campuses, all facilities and 91ֿ Florence. The plan was well received, and Drummer-Ferrell and Daniels worked hand in hand for over a year on the development of the entire campaign.
Daniels worked with her team within University Communications and Marketing to create the campaign messaging and materials.
“The campaign revolves around the messages of Reduce the Stigma, Seek Help and Refer a Flash,” Daniels said. “It’s about promoting awareness and discussion pertaining to mental illness, understanding what resources are available for us all and being equipped to help others in their time of need.”
Other Mental Health Events
There will also be a event on Risman Plaza from 11 a.m.-2 p.m. on Oct. 10. This uplifting mental health promotion event includes interactive expo booths, food, peer-to-peer messaging, giveaways and more. The event is sponsored by the 91ֿ of Well-being.
Access to 91ֿ’s mental health resources, along with news about upcoming mental health events, can be found at www.kent.edu/mentalhealth.
Students, faculty and staff volunteered to be advocates and the faces of 91ֿ’s mental health campaign. Their faces can be seen on posters and other materials around 91ֿ’s campuses.