Marlin Schmidt, Government of Alberta's Minister of Advanced Education at Lakeland College in Vermilion on September 14.
On September 14, the Alberta Government announced a $175,000 donation to Lakeland College, for each of the next three years to improve mental health supports on campus.
According to Marlin Schmidt, Minister of Advanced Education, a recent national college health assessment was completed by 10 campuses across Alberta the majority of students reported having experienced depression, while one in 10 had contemplated suicide and one in 50 had attempted suicide.
“I want to give credit to students associations across the province for unifying that this is their number one priority for students. The funding can help provide counsellors, as well as education and awareness campaigns and training for faculty and staff,” said Schmidt.
Schmidt noted having been touched by the personal stories of students who had shared their past experiences of suicidal thoughts or abused women who wouldn’t have been able to continue successfully if they hadn’t reached out.
“Students facing mental health challenges need to know that help is available, that they have the supports they need and that they are not alone,” said Hannah Musterer, Lakeland College’s Vermilion Campus Student’s Association President.
Lakeland College President and CEO, Alice Wainwright-Stewart said, “Lakeland College is thrilled to receive this post-secondary mental health funding commitment from the Government of Alberta. With this funding, Lakeland is able to enhance the personal support systems we have in place for students to feel safe, welcome, and heard. Upholding this atmosphere is at the core of our values, and essential to our students’ mental well being and success.”