Active Minds is the nation's only grassroots organization dedicated to
the mental health of college students. It's a student-run mental health
awareness, education, and advocacy organization that is headquartered
in Washington, D.C. and exists on college campuses across the country.
Active Minds was founded in 2001 by Alison Malmon at the University of
Pennsylvania following the suicide of her older brother Brian.
Realizing that few Penn students were talking about mental health
issues, though many were affected, Alison was motivated to change that
culture on her campus. Nearly nine years and over 230 campus chapters later,
Active Minds is still growing and helping to bring awareness to mental
health.
What are the goals of Active Minds?
Our main goal is to normalize the discussion about mental health, understand its prevalence and impact, and to eliminate stigma of mental illness.
We also provide education regarding the risks, signs, and symptoms of
particular mental illnesses and provide resources for seeking help.
Additionally, we want to help out in our greater community by
participating in volunteer work and fundraising for local organizations
that work toward the same goals we do. We believe that every student on campus should not only have access to counseling and mental health information, but that they should not feel any shame or judgment in seeking help.
How are these goals accomplished?
Members meet monthly to discuss various mental health topics. In the past, we have educated students on many specific disorders and issues, as well as held open discussions about positive mental health, stigma, and how to take care of oneself. Our meetings are a
great opportunity to play games, watch movies, make new friends, and
learn about mental health issues that affect our community.
Additionally, we organize events such as bake sales, Gophers After Dark
activities, movie screenings, etc. in order to recruit new members and
raise awareness about the prevalence of mental illness. This past year, we held several panels in which officers and members could discuss their stories and share their experiences with mental health and mental illness. For a schedule
of all meetings and events, please see the schedules page.
How can I get involved?
Just show up! E-mail us at aminds@umn.edu to be added to our mailing list, or enter your e-mail address in the form on the get involved
page. We'll send you reminders about our meetings and specific details
about other events. You are welcome to join at any time by attending
one of our meetings.
Officers
Cynthia Fuller - Advisor
Jerie Smith - Advisor
Kyla Steinmeyer - Post-Undergraduate Advisor and Alumna
Nellie Brau - Coordinator
Angela Bohrer - Vice Coordinator
Ashley Brueske - Public Relations
Shirley Zhao - Secretary
Will Menzel - Financial Officer
The views and opinions expressed in this page are strictly those of the page author. The contents of this page have not been reviewed or approved by the University of Minnesota.