Suspenders4Hope, a program developed at Wichita State University, is highlighting
different departments and individuals on campus who are advocates for mental health
in hopes that their stories will inspire others to continue supporting one another
in the community.
Military and Veterans Services is being recognized for its work in supporting our
campus’ military service members and veterans, ensuring they have the resources they
need to succeed. Hear from Larry Burks, LTC (R) – US Army, director of Military and
Veterans Services, on how the office is supporting mental health.
How does Military and Veterans Services promote the importance of mental wellness
on campus and in the community?
We provide resources through Veterans Affairs to assist students who share with us
that there is need for this assistance. We also have a dedicated “quiet room” specifically
set aside for students to use as a safe haven when they are in need of a place to
relieve stress that can be encountered on any given day.
How important are mental wellness initiatives when working with military and veteran
service members?
Very important. This has been a barrier to the success of military students as noted
in many studies. Anything we can do to assist with the relief of this condition is
a valuable component of our mission here.
In your office’s efforts to support the mental wellness of the campus community, what
positive developments have you seen recently?
The new Shocker Success Center and the environment it creates. It provides a positive
space for students to convene and associate with others with similar backgrounds and
experiences.
What can others at WSU do to support mental wellness?
Support student veterans through acknowledgement of the impact mental health has on
this segment of our student population.
What does Suspenders4Hope mean to members in Military and Veterans Services?
It’s a training program that helps you know what to say and do during a mental health
crisis. It teaches the Share, Ask, Support method for helping yourself or someone
else in need. Making the steps easy to remember and utilize in a moment of emotional
distress means it is accessible to the veterans and service members we work with at
WSU.
How has Military and Veterans Services incorporated Suspenders4Hope in its work?
We are offering a training session for military and veteran students to better educate
them on the importance of this initiative and give them tools that can be used to
assist others (and their peers).
About Wichita State University
Wichita State University is Kansas’ only urban public research university, enrolling
more than 23,000 students between its main campus and WSU Tech, including students
from every state in the U.S. and more than 100 countries. Wichita State and WSU Tech
are recognized for being student centered and innovation driven.
Located in the largest city in the state with one of the highest concentrations in
the United States of jobs involving science, technology, engineering and math (STEM),
Wichita State University provides uniquely distinctive and innovative pathways of
applied learning, applied research and career opportunities for all of our students.
The Innovation Campus, which is a physical extension of the Wichita State University main campus, is one
of the nation’s largest and fastest-growing research/innovation parks, encompassing
over 120 acres and is home to a number of global companies and organizations.
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