Empowering, improving mental health

Mental health challenges are an ongoing concern among college students nationwide. From February 17-21, Lenoir-Rhyne University will partner with the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), to support improved mental health for students, faculty and staff with a full slate activities and resources designed to encourage the campus community to engage in positive self-care strategies and support one another.

“We have scheduled events, including workshops and panels, a keynote speaker from NAMI and stress-relief activities in the Cromer Center in response to student feedback and direction to address their specific needs,” said Walter Kennedy, coordinator of student engagement. “We want to empower all members of the Lenoir-Rhyne community to care for their mental health with the same attention they give their physical health.”

Organizations from across campus, including health care professional organizations, fraternities and sororities, as well as other campus resources, will play an active role in offering programming throughout the week.

Schedule of events

Monday, February 17 – Starting the Conversation

• Mental Health Mingle (Delta Zeta) – Connect, share, and learn about mental well-being.
  10 a.m.-2 p.m., Cromer Center Lobby

• NAMI Tabling (National Alliance on Mental Illness) – Learn about mental health resources and advocacy.
  11 a.m.-1 p.m., Cromer Center Lobby

• Time Out with Timely Care (Counseling and Wellness) – Discover campus mental health support services.
  11 a.m.-2 p.m., Cromer Center Lobby

• Digging For a Future (Iota Phi Theta Fraternity, Inc.) – Explore paths to mental clarity and resilience.
  11 a.m.-2 p.m., Cromer Center Lobby

• Color Out Anxiety (Kappa Delta) – Express emotions through art therapy and relaxation.
  6-9 p.m. Cromer Center, Fireside Room

Tuesday, February 18 – Understanding the Mind

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• What Keeps You Afloat (Delta Zeta) – A visual way to reflect on mental resilience.
  10 a.m.-2 p.m., Cromer Center Lobby

• BrainWave Challenge (Alex Lee Career Center) – Strengthen your cognitive well-being.
  11 a.m.-12 p.m., Cromer Center Lobby

• Sometimes All You Need Is a Hug (Counseling and Wellness) – Experience the power of human connection.
  11 a.m.-2 p.m., Cromer Center Lobby

Wednesday, February 19 – Wellness Check-In

• Check In, Chill Out (Pi Kappa Phi & Carolina Therapeutic Services) – Prioritize self-care and well-being.
  10 a.m.-2 p.m., Cromer Center Lobby

• LolliLift (Zeta Tau Alpha) – Sweet words of encouragement to brighten your day.
  11 a.m.-12 p.m., Cromer Center Lobby

• The Wellness Blend (Aramark Dining) – Sample fresh smoothies and nutritious snacks.
  11 a.m.-2 p.m., Cromer Center Lobby

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• Soul Speak: Open Mic Night (Office of Multicultural Affairs & Lenoir-Rhyne Men of Color) – Share your thoughts, poetry or music in a supportive space.
  7-9 p.m., Joe's Coffee

Thursday, February 20 – Movement & Mental Wellness

• GameChanger (Residence Life & Intramural Sports) – Learn how sports benefit mental health.
  11 a.m.-1 p.m., Cromer Center Lobby

• Shredding Our Insecurities (Academic Advising) – Write down and let go of self-doubt.
  11 a.m.-1 p.m., Cromer Center Lobby

• Kappa Yoga (Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc.) – Relax and recharge with guided yoga.
  12-1 p.m., Moretz Athletic Complex classroom 107

• Just Dance Night (Occupational Therapy Association) – Relieve stress through movement and music.
  5-6 p.m., Bear Cave Game Room

• Penning Down the Blues (Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc.) – Express emotions through writing.
  7:20 p.m., Virtual Link on Zoom, Meeting ID: 959 1395 5001, Passcode: 585604

Friday, February 21 – Release & Recharge

• Slime with Slime (Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc.) – Engage in fun, hands-on stress relief.
  10 a.m.-2 p.m., Cromer Center Lobby

• Take a Note, Leave a Note (Counseling and Wellness) – Share and receive words of encouragement.
  11 a.m.-2 p.m., Cromer Center Lobby

• Know Your Numbers: Heart Health – Understand the connection between physical and mental well-being.
  12-1 p.m., Cromer Center Lobby

• Car Smash (Theta Xi Fraternity) – Release frustration in a safe and controlled environment.
  2-5 p.m., Russell House Lawn

• 3v3 Basketball Tournament (Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc.) – Compete, connect, and relieve stress on the court.
  5-7 p.m., Living Learning Center Court

Let’s join together to raise awareness, promote understanding and prioritize mental health. Together, we can make a difference.

For more information, contact Walter Kennedy, coordinator of student engagement, at walter.kennedy@lr.edu.