On April 28, 2025, Le Moyne University in Syracuse, N.Y., hosted the ‘Voices of Hope’ event, aimed at honoring lives lost to suicide and promoting mental health awareness among students and local residents. This event was organized in collaboration with the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention and featured a variety of presentations, performances, and personal stories.
Shayesta Baqaakhail, the Wellness Ambassador Coordinator at Le Moyne, shared her insights on the importance of community support in mental health. ‘We’re all in this together so no one has to do it alone,’ she stated. Baqaakhail, originally from Afghanistan, reflected on her personal journey, saying, ‘I come from a background where I once thought I had no voice. The feeling of being surrounded by supportive people is very emotional for me.’
Anne Kearney, Assistant Dean for Student Well-Being, expressed her pride in the event’s impact: ‘It’s gratifying to witness students taking leadership and contributing in unique ways that instill hope.’ Participants showed their solidarity by wearing shirts featuring a semicolon, symbolizing the choice to continue living and overcome struggles. Baqaakhail explained the significance of this symbol: ‘It represents our commitment to support each other. There’s always hope, even if it’s small.’
Kearney added, ‘We have a saying here at Le Moyne: Dolphins don’t let dolphins swim alone.’ This highlights the event’s core message—acknowledging that everyone faces challenges, but no one should have to confront them alone. The gathering successfully reinforced the importance of community in supporting mental health and preventing suicide.
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