Empower, Connect, Advocate: Join Active Minds at OSU!

By Darlene Seltzer on April 3, 2025
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Beavs, there’s a new opportunity for getting involved in mental health advocacy on campus! The reestablishment of the OSU Active Minds Chapter offers a meaningful way for students to advocate for mental health awareness and support their peers. Active Minds, the nation’s leading peer-to-peer mental health advocacy organization, empowers students to reduce stigma, encourage help-seeking, and foster supportive campus environments. With over 1,000 chapters nationwide, OSU’s chapter joins a powerful movement dedicated to changing the conversation about mental health.

Grace Darazs, a senior majoring in business administration and minoring in psychology and marketing, took the lead to spearhead the return of Active Minds. “This leadership role holds such a deep place in my heart because it’s crucial that there is an accessible, inclusive environment to discuss the stigma of student mental health,” Darazs shared. “Mental health is just as important as physical health and should be treated like it.”

Active Minds will give students the chance to advocate for mental health policies, organize awareness campaigns, and spread the word about campus resources. But more than that, it’s about building a tight-knit community where students can uplift and support one another through the challenges of college life. “Young people participating in advocacy is so important because peer support is incredibly effective,” Darazs emphasized. “Advocacy at a young age is empowering and builds self-confidence.” The group hopes to make a real impact by fostering an inclusive space that encourages students to share their experiences and seek help when needed.

Students are encouraged to stay connected through social media for upcoming meeting announcements and event details. Follow the OSU Active Minds chapter on Instagram at @activeminds.atosu for updates. “My team and I are so excited to launch the reestablishment of Active Minds at Oregon State University! Everyone is welcome, and we hope to see you there.”

For students looking to get involved, Active Minds is more than just a club—it’s a movement. It’s a chance to make a difference, build leadership skills, and be part of something bigger. If you are interested in joining, email [email protected]. Together, OSU Beavers can break the stigma and create meaningful change on campus and beyond.