The North Carolina Central University (NCCU) Division of Student Affairs (DSA) Department of Student Health and Wellness (SHAW) is proud to announce that the University has been awarded a $32,500 grant from the Partners for Rural Impact - HBCU Give Back National Service Initiative, led by Elizabeth City State University (ECSU). These funds will be used to support NCCU’s inaugural Black Male Mental Health Summit, scheduled for Friday, Feb. 28, 2025, in the NCCU Student Center.
The Black Male Mental Health Summit will focus on addressing the mental health challenges facing Black male high school and college students. In collaboration with the NCCU Counseling Center, the Men’s Achievement Center and the Women’s Center, this groundbreaking event will provide a platform for dialogue, education, and empowerment, bringing together students, faculty, staff, and community partners.
Key features of the summit will include:
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Keynote Speeches and Panel Discussions with leading mental health advocates.
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Workshops and Interactive Sessions are designed to promote mental wellness and resilience.
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Resource Sharing to connect participants with tailored mental health services.
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Post-Secondary Exposure for High School Students through campus tours and on-site admissions opportunities.
The grant was secured under the leadership of LaMarcus Howard, Ph.D., assistant vice chancellor for SHAW, and in collaboration with Kalvin Franklin, assistant director of outreach and Deshaywn Middleton, staff counselor in the NCCU Counseling Center.
"This grant represents a vital step toward addressing the mental health disparities faced by Black men in our community,” said Howard. “With the support of the HBCU Give Back Initiative, we aim to create a lasting impact by fostering awareness, reducing stigma, and providing the tools needed for academic and personal success."
The Black Male Mental Health Summit aligns with NCCU’s commitment to holistic student development, particularly within underserved and rural communities. It will also integrate the goals of the HBCU Give Back Initiative by promoting civic engagement and capacity-building in the region.
For more information about the summit or to get involved, please contact LaMarcus Howard at [email protected].
