In recognition of World Mental Health Day on Oct. 10, and as part of an ongoing commitment to mental health and wellbeing, Daemen University and the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention held the fourth annual Walk for Jenny on Oct. 16 to honor former Daemen student, Jennifer “Jenny” McAlmont, and shine a light of hope in her memory.
Dr. Kerry Spicer, vice president of Student Affairs, opened the tribute, sharing, “You have to say the hard things out loud, because we’ve heard them before, because other people feel them, because they’re important, and because you matter,” adding, “Remember, there is always someone to call and there’s always somewhere to go. If you call, we are going to be there.”
Jenny’s mother, Lois Foster, shared poignant words of hope and encouragement, saying, “I’m here today to impress upon each and every one of you that it’s okay to ask for help. Please, if you are hurting in silence, find someone you trust and talk about what’s hurting you.” She thanked students for showing up every year, noting, “You are amazing individuals in your own right. You’re beautiful people. You have wonderful hearts. You have a lot to live for. You are our promise for tomorrow.”
Spicer and Foster led the crowd to the Jennifer “Jenny” McAlmont Reflection Garden, located between campus apartments 101 and 76, where they left purple pinwheels as a tribute to those impacted by suicide to signify hope, remembrance, and love.
Daemen Athletics prioritizes student-athlete mental health and wellness initiatives and actively participates in the Walk for Jenny and Morgan’s Message, an organization dedicated to eliminating the stigma surrounding mental health particularly within the student-athlete community. “Balancing academics, athletics, and personal life can create significant stress, and without proper support, that pressure can impact both wellbeing and performance,” said Senior Associate Athletics Director for Internal Operations, Suzie Yormick-DeNillo. “Taking part in the Walk for Jenny and Morgan’s Message is a focus for the Athletics department as it can help open up conversations around the topic and reinforce the support available across campus.”
Daemen’s CHIP Center offers free, confidential in-person or virtual counseling services for students. Appointments can be booked online.
The 988 Suicide Crisis Lifeline, comprised of a national network of over 200 local crisis centers, offers 24/7 call, text, and chat access to trained crisis counselors who can help those experiencing emotional distress.