Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS) is proud to recognize outstanding members of the Oregon State University community through the Beacon of Hope Mental Health Champion Awards. These awards honor individuals and groups whose primary roles are not centered in mental health, yet who intentionally weave care, awareness, and advocacy into their everyday work, helping to create a more welcoming, supportive, and connected campus environment.
Each year, three awards are presented: one to a faculty or staff member (or professional group), one to a student or student-led group, and one Impact Award recognizing broad and lasting contributions to student wellbeing.
2026 Award Recipients
Student Recipient: Jack McDonough
Speech Communications Student, Dam Worth It Co-President, Sigma Nu Member
Jack was selected for the Beacon of Hope Award in recognition of his meaningful and lasting impact on the community. As a Movember Ambassador, he raised over $1,500 for men’s mental health initiatives and helped lead his fraternity’s participation in the Out of the Darkness Campus Walk. Peers consistently describe him as a compassionate, reliable presence who is deeply committed to reducing stigma and supporting others.
Faculty Recipient: Dr. Lilian Wong, DVM, MS
Clinical Skills Instructor, Carlson College of Veterinary Medicine
Dr. Wong has made a profound impact by integrating mental health and wellbeing into Veterinary Medicine education. By emphasizing self-care, modeling vulnerability, and incorporating guest speakers and supportive resources, she has cultivated a compassionate environment for students. Her efforts not only support students today but are shaping a lasting culture of well-being within the program, reflecting OSU’s commitment to a supportive and inclusive campus.
Impact Award Recipient: Sara Trott, MLS
Equipment Manager, Valley Library
As the CAPS Beacon of Hope Impact Award recipient, Sara has championed mental health beyond traditional roles. From co-developing the children's picture book collection to introducing sensory and Mind Spa kits and expanding curated mental health resources, her work has grown into a meaningful bibilotheraphy initiative that broadens access to wellbeing supports. Collaborative efforts across campus, including with CAPS, have fostered sustainable programs that continue to strengthen student wellbeing and leave a lasting impact.
2025 Impact Award Recipient: Erica Woekel, PhD
Clinical Associate Professor of Kinesiology
In 2025, Dr. Erica Woekel was our inaugural Beacon of Hope Award recipient. She has made a far-reaching impact as a dedicated mental health champion within the OSU community. By integrating CAPS’ virtual mental health training into the HHS 231 course, she has helped equip more than 26,000 students with the skills to support peers in distress, contributing to a more caring and connected campus. Her work reflects a deep commitment to student wellbeing and continues to make a lasting difference.
Celebrating a Culture of Care
All Beacon of Hope recipients will be recognized during the annual Out of the Darkness Campus Walk on Saturday, April 18th, where the OSU community gathers to promote mental health awareness and suicide prevention. Their work highlights the importance of collective responsibility in fostering a campus culture rooted in care, connection, and compassion.
CAPS extends its sincere gratitude to this year’s awardees and nominees for their dedication to campus community wellbeing. Through their leadership, advocacy, and everyday acts of care, these individuals embody the spirit of the Beacon of Hope.