Augustana College 2

Introduction

  • Symposium with 3 speakers

  • Kaley: a social entrepreneur and innovator

Kaley's Background

  • Graduated from Augustana in May 2020

  • Unique graduation experience during COVID-19

  • Works full-time as a communications manager at John Deere

  • Passion for mental health led her to start Gray Matters Collective

Gray Matters Collective

  • Originated as a student conversation at Brew by the Slough

  • Over 60 chapters in schools, colleges, and communities across the Midwest

  • 100% volunteer-run organization

Personal Mental Health Journey

  • Experience with bipolar depression, anxiety disorder, and PTSD

  • Initial difficulty in confronting mental health issues

  • Growth through therapy and supportive communities

Importance of Conversation

  • Initial stigma surrounding mental health in school

  • Observations of students openly discussing mental health on campus

  • Personal connection to mental health due to past trauma

Campaign Launch

  • Inspired to create a mental health campaign after overhearing students discuss mental health

  • The Gray Matters poster campaign was launched with student participation

  • First event attracted over 250 students, demonstrating community interest

Nonprofit Evolution

  • Transitioning from a movement to a formal nonprofit organization

  • Emphasis on mental health education and resources

  • Building a reliable board and organizational structure to sustain growth

Challenges and Lessons Learned

  • Difficulties with the initial board; focus on mission vs. business mindset

  • Recognizing the need for mission-driven leaders

  • Importance of a supportive community in advocacy efforts

Future Plans

  • Aim to expand Gray Matters internationally

  • Exploration of grant opportunities to support broader initiatives

  • Focus on mental health education and resource dissemination

Conclusion

  • Emphasis on community in mental health advocacy

  • Call for open dialogue and continued efforts to reduce stigma

  • Encouragement for audience engagement and questions.