We know that the late teenage years, which can be challenging even under the best of circumstances, are the stage of life when mental health issues can surface. With 75% of mental illness diagnoses occurring from ages 18 to 24, there is a significant impact on adults who are pursuing higher education and launching careers. College staff see this first-hand and recognize the need for additional support services to ensure the educational success of students living with mental health challenges.

That is why we were excited to welcome State College of Florida (SCF), Ringling College of Art & Design, and New College of Florida administrators, psychologists, health workers, and support staff for two recent Lunch & Learn sessions. Our guests, most of whom were not previously aware of the Academy or our services, were highly engaged during their visits, recognizing how they can become part of the solution to mental health recovery. During lunch, our culinary team showed we are no ordinary cafeteria by impressing with delicious entrees as well as soup and salad offerings. 

For the next step, our partner schools will organize tours so our members can learn more about available educational opportunities. And our outbound lane is already seeing traffic—one of our members has re-entered SCF, where support staff will be working with the Academy to help ensure success.

Special thanks to Dr. Erin Robinson, Associate Dean of Students/Director of Health Services at Ringling College, and Jaquelyn McNeil, SCF Dean of Students, for helping to organize these visits.

Pictured above – Inset SCF, New College of Florida and Ringling College of Art & Design

Academy member Paul Hennekes led the group on an interactive, hour-long tour, during which they listened to our members’ stories and really made the most of this opportunity to gain insight in the recovery process.

The Culinary Arts team further impressed our visitors by serving a delicious, nutritious lunch: Greek salad, mushroom soup, and a salmon entrée with quinoa, squash, and purpled potatoes.

We thank Ava Ehde, Director of Neighborhood Services, for organizing the visit and allowing this chance to connect.