Morgan’s Message, a pioneering student club within the College of Physical Activity and Sport Sciences, was selected to receive a grant in support of their ongoing efforts to promote mental wellness for athletes.
The group participated in the “I Belong” event during a recent WVU Women’s Basketball game. “Our team networked and connected with other people and organizations flawlessly. The table looked incredible and brought us a lot of awesome opportunities,” Nora Hanlon, club secretary, said. “The I Belong mirror was especially loved. I could not be prouder of the team and I know they feel the same.”
The WVU Office of Student Engagement and Leadership awarded the $400 grant to Morgan’s Message for its “creative, thoughtful and impactful use of a mirror message and board highlighting high-profile athletes who have struggled with mental health.” The Morgan’s Message display was one of more than 30 groups represented at the game.
"This club comes along at just the right moment as mental health comes into focus in athletics and across campus. Morgan’s Message provides an outlet for students from any major to get involved in conversations and initiatives surrounding mental health on campus," Sam Zizzi, Dr. Pat Fehl Endowed Professor and club advisor, said.
Morgan’s Message focuses on eliminating the stigma surrounding mental health within the student-athlete community and equalize the treatment of physical and mental health in athletics. The group aims to expand the dialogue on mental health by normalizing conversations, empowering those who suffer in silence and support those who feel alone. The WVU chapter of Morgan’s Message hopes to amplify the stories within the WVU community.
Visit the Morgan’s Message web page to learn more about Morgan Rodgers, former Duke Women’s Lacrosse player who battled mental health issues. Morgan died by suicide in July 2019 at the age of 22. Additionally, the site highlights WVU mental health stories and ongoing efforts by Morgan’s Message – WVU chapter.
Morgan’s Message WVU Ambassadors include President Hailey Mostacciuolo, Sport and Exercise Psychology with a double minor in Human Services and Personal Training, 2022, Haymarket, Va.; Vice President Ruby Melvin, Sport and Exercise Psychology with a minor in Sports Communications, 2023, Gloucester, Mass.; Secretary Nora Hanlon, Sport and Exercise Psychology with a triple minor in Human Services, Scholastic Coaching and Human Nutrition and Food, 2023, Middletown, N.Y.; Treasurer Rachael Saepic, Sport and Exercise Psychology with a double minor in Criminology and Family and Youth, 2022, Cleveland, Ohio; Recruitment Joey Shull, Sports Management, 2025, Warrenton, Va.
The group meets every other Thursday at 6 p.m. in CPASS room G06. The next meeting is Thursday, March 3 and will feature a SafeTalk Certification event.