A joyful noise: NAMI on Campus Walk unites Marauders, Centralians and more for mental health awareness

The 2024 NAMI on Campus Walk for National Mental Health Awareness Month brought the Central State University (CSU) community together in an inspiring show of unity. Held during Homecoming Week, the event attracted a diverse crowd of faculty, staff, students, alumni and community members — all united in one mission: to raise awareness about mental health and reduce the stigma surrounding it. 

Organized by NAMI on Campus and VIBE, Central State’s LGBTQ+ student organization, the walk began at the Sunken Garden, a scenic space that set the tone for an empowering morning. Participants gathered around 10 a.m., and the positive energy was palpable.  

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A key contributor to this uplifting atmosphere was Jalynn Simmons, a proud 1997 alum and founder of Joyful Noyze Management LLC, providing Social Emotional Learning (SEL) STEAM-based music and wellness services. Simmons, whose company uses music and wellness to promote healing, brought a unique element to the walk with an array of instruments like hand drums and bells. Simmons is a Columbia University SEL teaching artist and HealthRHYTHMS Advanced Strategies facilitator.

“Your energy makes a difference,” Simmons said, addressing the crowd. “It’s about unity and bringing people together through music and wellness.” 

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NAMI on Campus President Kameran Hall echoed the sentiment, expressing deep gratitude to the participants. “Mental health matters,” Hall said. “By coming out today, you’ve become a mental health advocate.” 

Hall’s words reminded everyone of the ongoing need to continue the conversation and support those facing mental health challenges. 

Central State University is fully committed to breaking down the barriers that prevent many in the African American community from seeking help. Cultural stigma, a historical mistrust of health care systems and limited access to mental health resources often make it harder to get support. Through events like the NAMI on Campus Walk, CSU is working to change that narrative — offering programs, services and initiatives that foster a sense of community and care. 

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Dr. Sonia Hunt, director of the Title III-funded Counseling Services, spoke from the heart about the University’s dedication to supporting students’ mental health and well-being.  

“At Central State University, we are intentional about promoting positive mental health and wellness,” said Hunt, who was also celebrating her birthday. “I love you all from the depth of my heart. You don’t even know how much you’ve each added to me in so many ways.” 

Her powerful words reflected the deep connections fostered within the Central State family. 

Restorative Practice Circle Practitioner Deron Bell, certified by the International Institute for Restorative Practices (IIRP), emphasized the University’s goal of creating a culture of care. “We provide opportunities for all campus departments to build a culture of care campus-wide,” Bell said, reinforcing CSU’s commitment to mental wellness. 

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As the walk concluded, participants were encouraged to continue supporting Counseling Services at Central State, ensuring the University’s ongoing dedication to student wellness. By contributing to mental health programs, the CSU community can keep making strides toward a more inclusive, supportive environment for all. 

Frances Calhoun, lead advisor of NAMI on Campus, said community support for the student-led group is vital. Donations to NAMI on Campus can be made on the University’s giving page, helping ensure that every Marauder has access to mental health awareness education, activities and support.  

Together, we are stronger — and at Central State, we walk that journey as one.