2025 Conference Breakout Sessions

Session Title: Creating Community Through Social Media: Promoting a Sense of Belonging in Politically Charged Times

Presenter(s):
Nichole Evans - University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign

Shengxi Sun - Unversity of Illinois Urbana-Champaign

Abstract: While social media outreach is in most counseling center's toolboxes, the current political climate is making all our work more challenging and demands that we rethink best practices for social media. This presentation will focus on promoting belonging when the current administration derides DEI practices. Particularly, we will also share effective strategies for reaching students who are being marginalized so that they see our counseling centers as trusted resources. We will share examples of the University of Illinois Counseling Center's social media campaigns as examples for discussion. We will also discuss the importance of social media analytics and seeking feedback to ensure our messages are hitting their mark and course-correcting when needed. Finally, we will examine the changing landscape of social media platforms and offer suggestions for newer platforms to focus on as more established networks like Facebook and Twitter/X no longer align with values of social justice and truth.

Learning Objectives:

• Understand how the current political climate is affecting social justice work of Counseling Centers and making popular social media platforms unstable.
• Identify best practices for creating effective content that is inclusive and welcoming to marginalized populations.
• Recognize how to access key metrics to determine how effective social media content is.
• Evaluate up-and-coming social networks as potential vehicles to share our messages on platforms that are more in line with values of social justice and truth.

Session Title: Ever Forward Backward: How to remain true to our practice

Presenter(s):
Randolph Brooks - North Carolina State University

Abstract: We've seen a rise in anti-DEI legislation this year; what are ways in which we are able to ensure that mental health services remain inclusive spaces for the full range of diverse student populations?  Doing Diversity, Equity, inclusion, justice, and belonging work is difficult on its own, and with anti-DEI legislation, the task at times feels impossible. We are charged with doing this work as a part of our ethical principles and guidelines, so that we can be better clinicians, and by extension provide the best care possible to our students/clients. If by legal mandate we are not permitted to do this work with our students, then what work can we do to ensure that the principles of Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, Justice, and Belonging are still realized in the everyday lived experiences of our students. We must use culturally sensitive practices that promote student well-being and success. As mental health professionals from various disciplines we can organize and get politically involved with our various state boards, our advocacy can not be performative, and our work must be focused on both our students and our workplace (Engram & Mayer, 2023).

Learning Objectives:

• How to continue DEI work in a way that does not run afoul of the current legislation
• How can we guard and protect spaces for our historically ignored clients
• The goal is to use an inclusive lens that recognizes that some spaces need to be protected, educational, and inclusive.

Session Title: The Power of Outreach: Transferable Skills for Community Change

Presenter(s):
Rebecca Rampe - UAB

Batsirai Bvunzawabaya - University of Pennsylvania

Abstract: Being an outreach provider fosters skill development in many areas that benefit a career and a provider's community throughout a lifetime. Skills in conducting a needs assessment, developing interpersonal relationships, communication, program development, program evaluation, and more allow for professionals to continue to grow as a clinician while influencing community or administrative change in various settings beyond UCCCs. This program will focus on the importance of skills identified and gathered from seasoned outreach professionals throughout the field who are in different administrative roles or in different settings but continue to utilize valuable skills learned through engaging as an outreach provider. Examples of other settings providers find themselves within include private practice, academic medicine, teaching, and community mental health settings. The presenters will utilize the previously published article on outreach competencies with a social justice and trauma-inclusive lens to select the skills explored. In addition to skills, the "art of convening" and this creative process in learning how to host a productive, open, and transparent spaces will be discussed. The program will reinforce the benefits of a UCCC engaging in outreach provider skill development and training to support both the clinician and the center.

Learning Objectives:

• Describe transferable skills developed through outreach program engagement.
• Review skills in connection with published outreach competencies and a social justice and trauma-inclusive lens.
• Explore various community settings where outreach provider skills have been beneficial for clinicians.
• Discuss approaches to emphasis outreach skill development for further buy-in for outreach engagement.

The Power of Outreach Presentation

Session Title: Thriving Together: Building Stronger Connections in Outreach During Times of Transition at College Counseling Centers

Presenter(s):
Markie Silverman - University of Michigan

Kayla Douglas - University of Michigan

Abstract: Transitions within college counseling centers—whether due to leadership changes, shifts in student needs, or evolving institutional priorities—present both challenges and exciting opportunities for growth. During these times of change, fostering connection and collaboration within outreach teams and across campus partnerships is key to ensuring continued support for students. This proposal focuses on the power of outreach and teamwork, emphasizing the importance of building strong connections not only with campus partners but also within the counseling center itself. By strengthening relationships among colleagues and outreach staff, counseling centers can create a unified, resilient approach to supporting students through transitions. Attendees will explore strategies for fostering collaboration within the team, creating a culture of trust, and enhancing communication across departments. In addition, the session will highlight how building strong networks with academic departments, student affairs, peer organizations, and other campus resources can help ensure comprehensive, stigma-reducing outreach efforts. Through inspiring examples and practical approaches, participants will leave with actionable strategies to enhance team cohesion, create a supportive environment for staff, and work together more effectively during times of change—all while ensuring that students feel connected, supported, and empowered.

Learning Objectives:

• Identify strategies to strengthen collaboration and communication with campus partners during periods of transition.
• Explore strategies to adapt counseling services to meet the evolving needs of students during times of institutional or leadership change.
• Learn how to build connection and trust among counseling staff to create a supportive and resilient environment for both students and colleagues.

Session Title: Creating a Culture of Community: Enhancing Student Belonging through Unconventional Approaches in Embedded Sites

Presenter(s):
Joni Sivey - The Ohio State University

Hunter Sully - The Ohio State University

Carrington Mahr - The Ohio State University

Peter Oduwole - The Ohio State University

Abstract: As universities strive to increase student retention and bolster academic success, fostering belonging and community remains a critical goal. Despite development of university wide efforts to enhance belonging, underrepresented subcultures are still very present within the student body around identities such as race, field of study, and political viewpoint. These unique cultural norms within these communities create some challenges to community building and often require responsive and intentional outreach efforts.  Drawing from research and firsthand experiences, this presentation will help attendees gain awareness of some common characteristics of cultures within subcommunities (including embedded sites), develop practical initiatives to meet the needs of the communities they serve, and connect with others to gain support as outreach professionals.  This session will include ways in which outreachers can engage diverse student populations, including underrepresented and marginalized groups, as well as implement strategies to further social justice values in outreach. With equity in mind, presenters will highlight unconventional strategies to reach students who choose not to engage in institutional or formalized mental health or academic programming. This session is ideal for mental health clinicians, outreach professionals, higher education or student life staff, and anyone interested in creating a more inclusive and supportive academic environment.

Learning Objectives:

• Identify specific cultural norms within distinct university sites, including strengths and struggles that enhance or challenge community building and belonging
• Discuss practical examples of programming implemented by presenters to address challenges within embedded specific college sites
• Develop unique and innovative outreach initiatives that increase belonging and strengthen student well-being through community connections
• Collaborate with other outreach professionals in a spirt of community through discussion, small group connection moments, and storytelling

Session Title: Evolution of a Multi-Campus Community-Level Prevention Initiative to Educate, Empower, and Enlist Agents of Change (and How to Curate Your Own!)

Presenter(s):
Stephanie Stama - Penn State University, University Park

Abstract: While several commercial gatekeeper training courses exist, a program designed to meet specific university considerations can enhance a sense of community/belonging, faculty/staff participation, and speed of effectively addressing student needs. The Red Folder at Penn State is a low-maintenance evidence-based toolkit that distributes student support across multiple resources in the campus community.   The Red Folder aims to educate the campus community about recognizing, responding to, and referring students experiencing different types of distress; normalize non-pathological behaviors; reinforce helper self-care; and empower individuals to skills they already possess to enact a ripple effect of change.  This initiative is driven by analyzing participant data, gathering feedback from 25 campuses with uniquely shifting administration/policies/procedures, and making respective routine adaptations in content, format, and process. What began as a single piece of paper in 2017 is now a holistic community-level prevention initiative at Penn State University.  In this session, participants will learn about the evolution of The Red Folder at Penn State as it considers community needs and feedback in an ongoing growth process. Using this as an example, participants will then combine evidence-based prevention strategies, unique campus considerations, and outcome/feedback data to craft a bespoke community-level prevention model for their campus.

Learning Objectives:

• By the end of the program participants will be able to describe evidence-based models for college student mental health prevention strategies.
• By the end of the program participants will be able to integrate elements of community-level mental health prevention techniques that can be adapted for different university communities.
• By the end of the program participants will be able to begin designing a community-level prevention model for their campus.

Evolution of a Multi-Campus Community Presentation 
Framework for Creating a Community Prevention Model

Session Title: Facilitation Strategies for Campus Groups in Tumultous Times

Presenter(s):
Helen Hsu - Stanford University

Abstract: Studies of college student well-being indicate alarming decreases in reports of flourishing, accompanied by increases in levels of anxiety and mood disorders which have been exacerbated in the post-COVID, disaster-ridden, politically turbulent nationwide climate. Students experiencing disurbances at micro, meso, and macro levels simultanously report high levels of distress and isolation. The negative impact of such stressors is magnified for students with vulnerable, historically marginalized identities. This session describes campus interventions that foster community-building and group support as strategies to foster healthier campus climate and providing mental health resources to marginalized students who do not readily access CAPS clinic-based care. This session will review the unprecedented, swiftly-changing framework on campuses which neccesitate high levels of sensitivity and competence in the planning and facilitation of campus group activities.  This session will review criteria for competence, resources to improve culturally responsive skills,tips for addressing sensitive topics, and sharing of specific facilitation plans, strategies, and outcomes. Specific examples of group outreach events will be reviewed to provide examples of effective and ineffective strategies. Participants will be guided to utilize these examples for analysis and to enage in design and planning for their respective campus communities.

Learning Objectives:

• Participants will utilize session strategies to outline plans for a campus outreach supportive group intervention.
• Participants will analyze their existing strategies to assess and revise at least 2 aspects of outreach competencies.
• Participants will analyze current events and literature to prepare and design future group outreaches.

Session Title: Innovative outreach programming to foster community and support with first-generation students

Presenter(s):
Khanh Nghiem - University of Chicago

Adriana Sanchez - University of Chicago

Maria Sanchez - University of Chicago

Abstract: First-generation college students (FGS) face unique challenges exacerbated by being the first in their family to attend college, such as financial instability, poor social and academic support, decreased sense of belonging, and experiences of being marginalized (House et al., 2020). FGS are also less likely to utilize campus services, including mental health services—a disparity that worsened during the pandemic, increasing isolation and loneliness (Lipson et al., 2023; Raposa et al., 2024). Findings to explain the low utilization have been expectedly mixed, given FGS' intersectional identities, lived experiences, and family/community context (Bartholomew et al., 2025; Smith & McLellan, 2023). Lower utilization rates highlight the need for enhanced outreach that incorporates representation of first-generation therapists (Bartholomew et al., 2025) and fosters community building, which can be a powerful tool for improving students' mental health.  In this session, we will share innovative outreach programming and campus collaborations that foster connection, a sense of belonging, and resilience. These programs included interactive, experiential, and discussion activities from a strengths-based, social justice, and cultural healing lens. We will also share our reflections and suggestions to nurture sustainability, allyship, and community and address potential challenges and barriers.

Learning Objectives:

• Describe one example of first-generation students' unique experiences and challenges.
• Explain one activity, program, or approach to foster community and sense of belonging for first generation students.

Session Title: A Little Bird Told Me: Utilizing Liaisonships to Expand the Reach of Mental Health and Wellness Information on Campus

Presenter(s):
Christina Szuch - Ohio State University

Abstract: Students are often inundated with an overwhelming amount of information about campus wellness resources during orientation and in the first few weeks of their first semester, highlighting the need for ongoing outreach. This session aims to explore how college counseling centers can continue reaching students throughout their academic careers as mental health and wellness needs arise. Campus partnerships can serve a critical role in building relationships and trust, especially with marginalized populations on campus that may be less likely to seek out traditional counseling services. This presentation will highlight current efforts to disseminate mental health information through a regular editorial calendar distributed to liaisons on a monthly basis. This calendar is an opportunity to share information about services at the counseling center and beyond, provide peer-to-peer wellness tips, destigmatize mental health concerns, humanize the counseling center, share identity-specific information, and provide support for current events. Examples of "blurbs" and data about the reach of this editorial calendar will be discussed, as well as potential future directions for communication efforts between the counseling center and the greater campus community.

Learning Objectives:

• Identify factors that may influence help-seeking and information-seeking behaviors in regards to health and wellness among college students.
• Describe examples of how a university counseling center can use an editorial calendar to share relevant mental health information to campus liaisons on a regular basis.
• Discuss potential future directions for communication efforts, such as social media use, expanded liaisonships, and new target content themes.

A Little Bird Told Me Presentation

Session Title: An Autoethnography on Building Connection and Cultivating Healing as a Queer Person of Color at a Predominant White Heterosexual Institution

Presenter(s):
Juan Pantoja-Pato - University of Notre Dame

Abstract: LGBQ+ of color are a multifarious group with unique strengths and cultural experiences, which can serve as a catalyst to create change within campuses. LGBQ+ of color have inherent value that can facilitate connections and healing in college campuses, especially at predominant white heterosexual institutions (PWHI). This presentation provides an autoethnography of a queer person of color at a PWHI who uses their identities, professional experience as a social justice psychologist, and their strengths to build connection and cultivate healing within the campus community. Using reflexivity and integration of research, the author highlights how they use their positionality, profession, and strengths to foster connections and healing across diverse groups of all backgrounds including students, campus personnel, and academia. The author delivers examples of how they foster campus change by working with white heterosexual people, LGBTQIA+ folks, and BIPOC communities. Attendees will learn to 1) center social justice practices to deconstruct structures that thwart sense of belonging and inclusion, 2) engage with practices that promote a sense of belonging, and 3) provide tools and directions to create campus culture change at predominant white heterosexual institutions. Implications for outreach will consist of clinical individual, community-level, and systemic advocacy efforts.

Learning Objectives:

• Discuss how queerness and race can serve as strengths to foster connection and healing at predominant white heterosexual institutions.
• Utilize social justice practices that build affirming cultural spaces, community, and collective healing at predominant white heterosexual institutions.

Autoethnography on Building Connection Presentation

Session Title: Better Together: Intentional Outreach Partnerships to Increase Capacity Supporting International Students Mental Health-Wellbeing

Presenter(s):
Elizabeth Jonas - Cornell University

Abstract: Building intentional student-centered partnerships can be key to creating environments where students feel seen, heard, and empowered to advocate for their needs and strengths.  Across North America, campuses continue to engage in student centered collaborations to meet the diverse mental health needs of international students, which can sometimes drain both human and material resources. With campus partners how do we come together to address the needs in a meaningful and collective way that strengthens international students' identification with campus mental health services while also respecting students home cultures.  In an effort to build and cultivate trusting relationships with campus partners who support international students. I partnered with some of our campus partners by building a "Paper Quilt, that invites participants to decorate a paper square with visual themes answering the following questions, When I have a question about mental health services, this is where I go. The framework is adopted from Dr. Yosso's Cultural Wealth Model that seeks to understand how students of color access and experience college from a strength-based perspective.   The "Paper Quilt Activity is a grounding art activity intended to enhance senses of support, visibility and self-advocacy among our service populations.

Learning Objectives:

• The session will give participants creative ideas to build intentional student-centred partnerships that foster visibility and self-advocacy.
• Tailoring outreach partnership to the student's unique needs, goals, and preferences.
• This activity is intended to enhance senses of support, visibility and self-advocacy among our service populations.

Session Title: Building a Liaison Program

Presenter(s):
Victoria Smith - DePaul University

Christian Carey - DePaul University

Andrea Martinez-Cabrera - DePaul University

Abstract: Building strong partnerships with campus colleagues and programs is essential for enhancing the support and well-being of university students. This presentation will explore the significant benefits of establishing liaison between university counseling center staff and various campus partners, including faculty, staff and student services. By fostering collaborative relationships across departments and programs, counseling staff can create strong relationships, tailor outreach strategies, events, presentations that meet the unique needs of diverse student populations, and offer consultation through a direct point person. This approach not only improves engagement and support but also allows for more effective intervention and interaction strategies aligned with students academic and personal development. Additionally, the presentation will highlight successful examples of customized programs, designed in collaboration with various departments, which address specific student needs based on demographics, program concerns and student challenges. Participants will gain insight into how such collaborations can enhance holistic student care, how to identify programs / departments that would strongly benefit from a liaison, key differences between liaison vs embedded positions, and how liaison partnerships can lead to a more supportive sense of community and inclusive campus environment.

Learning Objectives:

• Understanding what a liaisonship entails, and strategies for developing a liaison relationship with other campus entities
• Participants will learn how to complete a needs assessment for potential liaisonship.
• Be provided with liaison programing examples.

Building a Liaison Program Presentation

Session Title: When Disaster Strikes: Changing Outreach Initiatives During and After a Natural Disaster

Presenter(s):
Heather Walders - University of South Florida

Rachel Gilmore - University of South Florida

Concetta Holmes - New College of Florida

Leonette Lee Copeland - Florida Atlantic University

Abstract: Disasters are nearly impossible to plan for in advance fully. This session will focus on preparing for, engaging in, and debriefing after "Campus Crisis Events" and will include information and responses for natural disasters, mass violence, and other community crises. Strategies for advocating for, and continuing to encourage, outreach services when needed and promoting self-care for instructors and students in the classrooms and throughout evacuation scenarios will be discussed. We will look at how outreach shows up in the space, in the present when students are "in situ" and in need of immediate support, even when campuses are closed or possibly inaccessible. We will also share evidence-based debriefing models to encourage self-care as well as process evaluation to improve responses in the future.

Learning Objectives:

• Participants will learn strategies for advocating for, and continuing to encourage, outreach services when needed and promoting self-care for instructors and students in the classrooms and in evacuation scenarios.
• Participants will name ways outreach shows up in the space, in the present, when students are "in situ" and in need of immediate supports.
• Participants use debriefing models to encourage self-care as well as process evaluation to improve responses in the future.

Session Title: Empowering community by building institutional connections

Presenter(s):
Jessica Oyoque Barron - Michigan State University

Aleida Martinez - Michigan State University

Abstract: Latino/x/e have "high rates of those 18 to 24 years of age, but [were] among the lowest earning four-year degrees" (Murphy et al., 2018, p.3).  To support degree attainment and educational advancement among Latino-identified students, this presentation emphasizes the importance of cultural adaptations-the process by which students adjust or modify to the academic, social, and cultural demands of higher education- within outreach efforts (Ojeda, 2014).  Synergy between the individual, interpersonal, and institutional levels fosters a positive campus climate and further contributes to students' sense of well-being, persistence, and success (Vela, 2016). Our session objectives will be to:  1. Describe ongoing strategies (e.g. inclusion focused programming and initiatives) of two institutional partners by highlighted interpersonal dynamics, institutional buy in, and interest convergence  2. Highlight the relevant research on strategies that emphasis the impact of collaborative efforts (e.g. power of community, collaboration, and connection across campus)  3. Provide participants with areas of consideration when strengthening outreach efforts (e.g. responding to the impact of current events or critical incidents) to support Latine students

Learning Objectives:

• Participants will be able to identify and describe at least three effective outreach strategies used by institutional partners that support Latino-identified students to engage with students, including the use of intentional marketing, attending community
• Participants will be able to apply the principles of the Flourishing Scale and "Power of Hello" to enhance student engagement and support, focusing on non-clinical practices that foster student well-being and accessibility within their own institutional connections.

Empowering Community by Building Institutional Connections Presentation

Session Title: Essence of Black Celebration(EOBC): Embracing the Student's Voice of Change at Nicholls State University

Presenter(s):
Elnora Vicks - Nicholls State University

Abstract: "The idea of home fosters an undeniable sense of belonging and therefore longing because humans crave places in which to ground their identity"(I. Hobson). It is essential for students to feel seen, heard, and valued. They seek representation, safe spaces for vulnerability, and a sense of community within the campus environment. On February 3, 2023, Nicholls State University made history by hosting its inaugural Essence of Black Celebration. This event aimed to honor and recognize the achievements of Black culture, both historically and in the present while promoting diversity and inclusion across the university and the surrounding communities.

Learning Objectives:

• This presentation will discuss the development and impact of EOBC on a PWI campus.
• The participants will examine and discuss the critical importance and value of creating safe spaces, outreach programs, and events specifically for cultural groups

Essence of Black Celebration(EOBC) Presentation

Session Title: Outreach Collaboration between the Connection Project and Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS) at the University of Virginia

Presenter(s):
Trinley Palmo - University of Virginia

Abstract: College campuses nation-wide are dealing with an epidemic of loneliness and depression among their students1,2. The Connection Project, developed at the University of Virginia (UVA), is an innovative and evidence-based program demonstrated to reduce depression and loneliness and enhance belongingness among college students3, 4, 5. TCP offers a semester-long series of 75-minute weekly meetings for college students in groups of 6 to 10 --each group led by pairs of trained and supervised upper-level undergraduate facilitators -- taken as a 1-credit course.   This presentation offers an innovative model of outreach collaboration between TCP and Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS) at UVA. TCP has developed strong partnership with CAPS since 2022, which involves weekly outreach consultations between the TCP's implementation specialists and a clinical liaison from CAPS. This collaboration is aimed at directly supporting the student facilitators engaged in leading the intervention small groups. This presentation discusses (1) the process of implementing and scaling up an evidence-based wellness program in partnership with a College Counseling Center; (2) use of a strengths-based approach to train student peer leaders;(3) how to foster connection among students and, in turn, strengthen a culture of trust and community between college counseling centers and the students they serve.

Learning Objectives:

• To explain the unique components of an interdisciplinary outreach initiative aimed at fostering connection and mental wellbeing within a campus community
• To discuss the strength-based model of outreach collaboration aimed at leveraging peer support and community engagement.
• To demonstrate the mission of an innovative outreach collaboration in strengthening connection and sense of belongingness within a diverse campus community

Outreach Collaboration Presentation

Session Title: Supporting Students through Outreach During a Presidential Election

Presenter(s):
Ven Palmieri - The Ohio State University

Phil Hughes - Bowling Green State University

Carrie Finkill - University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign

Abstract: Presidential elections have been shown to adversely impact college student mental health. Targeted outreach programming around this topic can help alleviate anxiety and stress, particularly for marginalized students who may experience greater election-related stress and are traditionally underserved in many university counseling centers. The AUCCCO Research and Assessment Team conducted a survey of AUCCCO members regarding outreach related to the 2024 presidential election, including perceptions of successfulness of outreach efforts, difficulties experienced, anticipated effects of the election results on outreach, and insights and advice for fellow outreachers. The presenters will share the results of this survey as well as personal reflections on election-related outreach efforts across three different universities. The presenters will also explore the social justice implications for outreach related to presidential elections, including the impact of political neutrality at public institutions and  prioritizing outreach for students whose identities have been politicized. Finally, the presenters will offer recommendations for ways that outreachers can use this information to guide planning and implementation of successful and impactful outreach around elections and other major sociopolitical events.

Learning Objectives:

• Understand the role of social justice in outreach related to presidential elections.
• Identify successful strategies used to plan and implement outreach related to major sociopolitical events.

Session Title: Can Fresh Check Day Make a Difference?: A Review of this Campus Wide Event at Multiple Institutions

Presenter(s):
Olivia Scott - Michigan State University CAPS

Monica Martinez - Counseling and Mental Health Center (CMHC) University of Houston – Clear Lake

Kurt Morris - Westfield State University

Tianyi Xie - University of Iowa University Counseling Service

Heather Walders - University of South Florida Counseling Center

Aisha Evans - University of Cincinnati Counseling and Psychological Services

Abstract: Since 2012, Fresh Check Day has been hosted at over 370 university and college campuses across the country. Created by the Jordan Porco Foundation, this large-scale mental health promotion and suicide prevention event is known for its educational, interactive, and peer-to-peer approach. For many institutions, outreach professionals within collegiate mental health centers are responsible for coordinating, planning, and implementing this event. This session will include an overview of Fresh Check Day, its components, and planning requirements. There will also be a panel of outreach administrators from a variety of campuses who have coordinated this event. Benefits, challenges, and recommendations for successfully hosting Fresh Check Day will be discussed. Panelists will also share considerations related to budget, campus size, student body, and campus partnerships for institutions that may be contemplating this event for the first time.

Learning Objectives:

• Attendees will be able to describe the purpose and setup of Fresh Check Day.
• Attendees will be able to list at least three benefits of Fresh Check Day on college/university campuses.
• Attendees will be able to name common implementation barriers and planning challenges.
• Attendees will be able to specify ways to adapt Fresh Check Day to the needs and resources of their campus, with attention to contextual/cultural factors.

Session Title: Creating a Wellness Programming Series

Presenter(s):
Enrique Silva - DePaul University Counseling and Psychological Services

Areli Contreras - DePaul University Counseling and Psychological Services

Abstract: Everyone on campus wants and benefits from mental health programming. But not everyone realizes the resources they already possess, and not every mental health intervention needs to come from the counseling center. Partnering with resources across campus and throughout student affairs can help reach students more effectively to raise awareness, help to de-pathologize mental health topics, and can maximize the impact of events by combining budgets across departments. Additionally, having regularly-scheduled cross-campus events can help reduce the demand for "one-off" programming, particularly when events are promoted in advance through counseling center liaison channels. This strategy allows for planned programs and increases staff's ability to control their schedules. Our presentation will talk about how we moved from hosting our own mental health fairs to partnering with other Student Affairs units, our Multicultural Resource Centers, our International Students Office, and key outside vendors to develop multi-dimensional wellness programming that boosts awareness and teaches health-promoting behaviors to students. Our signature event series follows the developmental flow of a year on campus to offer targeted programs throughout the academic year.

Learning Objectives:

• Participants will learn strategies for identifying other campus resources for collaboration with ongoing programming
• Participants will understand the benefits of regular, structured programming to support the flow of the academic year
• Participants will learn how to help other campus entities recognize ways in which they support mental health

Session Title: It's Raining Men: Fostering Student Voices and Implementing Outreach Events for Male Identifying Students on a Small College Campus

Presenter(s):
Kristie Perez - Stetson University

Dulce Barrera - Steton University

Abstract: This session aims to address the unique mental health challenges faced by male-identifying students in higher education. The session will raise awareness of the societal pressures that contribute to mental health struggles among male-identifying students, including the stigma surrounding vulnerability and the reluctance to seek help due to traditional notions of masculinity. Through the integration of student voices, we will explore how creating safe spaces for male-identifying students to share their experiences and coping strategies can foster a more open, inclusive dialogue around mental well-being. Additionally, the presentation will highlight effective outreach and engagement strategies, such as focus groups, mental health awareness campaigns, and marketing strategies, specifically tailored to male-identifying students. These initiatives are designed to normalize mental health discussions and promote a culture of self-care and openness. Emphasis will also be placed on the importance of peer support networks, demonstrating how male-focused mental health initiatives can connect students with others who share similar experiences, fostering community and mutual care. This session aims to equip all with tools to better support male-identifying students' mental health needs and encourage greater participation in initiatives that promote well-being on campus.

Learning Objectives:

• Discuss the mental health challenges specific to male-identifying students, such as societal pressures to conform to traditional notions of masculinity, reluctance to seek help, and the stigma surrounding mental health discussions in male-dominated spaces
• Encourage the integration of student voices in mental health conversations by creating safe spaces where male-identifying students can express their experiences, struggles, and coping strategies, thereby fostering a more open dialogue about mental health
• Provide practical examples of outreach events, such as workshops, support groups, and mental health awareness campaigns, designed specifically to engage male-identifying students and normalize conversations around mental well-being.
• Discuss the importance of peer support networks and male-focused mental health initiatives that offer students the opportunity to connect with others who share similar experiences, promoting a sense of community and mutual care.
• Showcase how student-driven initiatives and programming can help male-identifying students become more engaged, form supportive communities, and contribute to a positive and inclusive campus culture.

It's Raining Men Presentation

Session Title: Leveraging personalized digital measurements to increase psychological well being in college communities

Presenter(s):
Helen Hsu - Stanford University

Abstract: With increased college student reliance on mobile devices, it is critical to find ways to leverage digital measurements and personalized feedback to improve psychological well-being in college communities. Digital tools have the potential to help colleges better identify students at risk, provide students data driven context on their behaviors. In addition, personalized preferences and data indicators may facilitate referrals and connections to cultural and identity-specific resources. Amidst the flood of digital mental health technologies, clinicians and administrators must be positioned to evaluate such technologies and recommend the most useful tools for students, as well as to inform campus resources. In this session, we will review the level of evidence for different digital biomarkers of mental health, discuss strategies for providing personalized feedback using these biomarkers, discuss how personalized resources can be applied to help students form connections around mental health. We will address ineffective strategies of digitial tool usage and describe methods to leverage digital tools for the purposes of creating stronger links between technology and in-person care. Finally, we will describe the current set of digital mental health tools designed for college students and the level of evidence to support their use.

Learning Objectives:

• Review the latest information on social and behavioral biomarkers in mental health
• Undertand the metnal health technology solutions designed for college students and how they may help at your college
• Learn how digital tools can be utilized to increase the connection between students and their college and local communities

Session Title: Integrating undergraduate interns into outreach work at a small university

Presenter(s):
Kurt Morris - Westfield State University

Abstract: Large universities (15,000+ students) can perform much outreach with undergraduates due to the greater staff levels, number of students, and resources. But how can smaller universities (less than 5,000 students) implement robust outreach programs that involve undergraduates? This session will showcase how one small university has established effective outreach with students majoring in psychology, communication, graphic design, and marketing. Not only are their internships helpful for the outreach work of the counseling center, but interns also learn the abilities needed to appeal to and work with a young adult population. Through collaboration with faculty, staff, and students, undergraduate interns can effectively reach their peers with mental health education and information on the offerings of the counseling center while developing skills for careers in their respective fields.

Learning Objectives:

• Participants will be able to explain ways a smaller university can build undergraduate internships in outreach work.
• Participants will list the benefits of creating a program for outreach interns in a small university setting.
• Participants will assess new methods to help obtain funding for outreach activities.

Session Title: Creating a Culture of Mindfulness and Emotional Intelligence on a College Campus

Presenter(s):
Richard Martinez - Texas State University

Jennifer Smith - Texas State University

Gilbert Lopez Jr. - Texas State University

Abstract: A multi-modal instructional and engagement focused initiative was developed for a college campus that utilizes evidence-based interventions in the areas of mindfulness, stress reduction, and emotional intelligence. The initiative consisted of video-based instruction, live workshops/events, classes, curated on-demand campus reflection/relaxation spaces, and self-help resources (individual and utilization in academic classes). The initiative included collaborative efforts of a Counseling Center, Student Success Division staff, and faculty across multiple academic units. An overview of the development of the initiative, implementation, outcomes, future directions, transferability, and lessons learned will be covered.

Learning Objectives:

• Recognize the evidence-based benefits of mindfulness, stress reduction, and emotional intelligence interventions for college students.
• Understand how to develop a multi-modal, interdisciplinary approach to prevention-focused programming.
• Navigate barriers and common problems related to large-scale prevention-focused programming.

Session Title: Strength in Collaboration: Multidisciplinary and Community Strategies for Mental Health Promotion

Presenter(s):
Graham Turner - Pacific University

Jaya Bhojwani - Pacific University

Abstract: As a small university counseling center, multidisciplinary collaboration is core to meeting the needs of our community. This presentation will discuss the ways we engaged in consultative outreach efforts to create therapeutic campus initiatives (Glass, 2020) through our mental health promotion working group. We will discuss the ways our working group recruits and engages in collaborative decision making that is centered in social justice and trauma-informed UCC outreach competencies (Bvunzawabaya & Rampe, 2024). As a group composed of students, staff, and faculty, we have had measured success in collecting Healthy Minds Data that was used to create faculty and staff guides to support our students' wellbeing. Additionally, our presentation will explore counseling center engagement through clinical and mental health promotion perspectives. Given the continued need for clinicians to step into campus outreach (Golightly et. al., 2017) we will describe how counseling center personnel engage with campus partners and navigate interpersonal processes within a diverse working group. This includes sharing insights about collaborative mental health promotion efforts with campus partners that have different levels of exposure, comfort, and experience around mental health topics and services.

Learning Objectives:

• Participants engage and analyze processes related to multidisciplinary collaboration and syncing counseling center outreach with disparate campus partners/systems.
• Participants will explore how to navigate profession expertise and expectations within collaborative spaces.
• Participants will engage with establishing, sharing and managing expectations around the collection of student mental health functioning.

Session Title: Supporting Marginalized Populations on Campus through a Comprehensive College Counseling Center Approach.

Presenter(s):
Michael Siembor - University of Rochester

John Rigney - Nazareth University

Shantal Richardson - Rochester Institute of Technology

Abstract: Supporting marginalized populations has long been the work of college counseling centers.  Recent geopolitical events, natural crises, race-based violence, LGBTQ-based violence, and other identity-based critical incidents have made that work more pressing.  Several college counseling centers discuss their efforts to connect with students in high distress who may be the least likely to walk through our doors.  We also discuss some of our novel clinical, training, and consultative approaches, in the vein of a comprehensive college counseling framework, that similarly address the needs of marginalized students.  Specifically, we discuss our drop-in groups, counseling center website and use of social media, critical incident response training, cross-campus  partnerships, a co-responder program, and other efforts.

Learning Objectives:

• Attendees will identity program ideas they might implement on their campus to begin building their own individualized responses to critical incidents impacting marginalized students.
• Attendees will identify ways to be proactive in reaching out to populations impacted by geopolitical and natural events and campus partners who may be most likely to engage with those students.
• Attendees will identify successful strategies as well as challenges of connecting with marginalized student populations particularly at predominantly white institutions (PWIs).

Session Title: Field of Memories: Transforming Campus Culture Through Suicide Prevention

Presenter(s):
Jeffery Nelson, LMHC - Iowa State University

Michelle Roling, LMHC, CEDS-C - Iowa State University

Vanessa Stein, LCSW - University of Central Florida

Field of Memories Presentation