The Kentucky Wesleyan Student-Athlete Advisory Committee (SAAC), in conjunction with the Kentucky Wesleyan Offices of Counseling services, is launching a Bandana Project chapter on campus.
 
The Bandana Project is a nationwide mental health awareness and suicide prevention initiative founded in 2016 on the University of Wisconsin-Madison campus. Kentucky Wesleyan becomes one of what is now more than 50 chapters across the nation. The idea came after members of Kentucky Wesleyan SAAC attended the 2021 NCAA Division II SAAC Midwest Super Region Convention held in Chicago, IL.

"I immediately knew that I wanted to work to implement it on the campus of Kentucky Wesleyan College, and I am excited to be doing so now" remarks KWC SAAC Co-President Jenna Burns.
 
Terri Petzold, Director of Counseling Services at Kentucky Wesleyan, added "Students involved in the Green Bandana Project will serve as a bridge to counseling and other health services on our campus and within our community. I am grateful for the efforts of Jenna Burns and SAAC in beginning this important initiative that will help students who are struggling with a mental health challenge know that it's ok to talk about what they are going through, that they are not alone, and that support is available."
 
Students, faculty, and staff are eligible for membership following the completion of a certification process. Members pledge to support the mental health of those in their life, and reject the stigma associated with mental illness. Once a member, individuals will receive a green bandana to display on their backpack as well as additional information and resources to assist individuals.
 
"We hope that a wave of green will spread around campus as the project picks up speed," said Burns. "As someone who has struggled with mental health and also watched those close to me struggle, this project is very personal to me. I am very grateful for the support I have received to make it a reality."