The Dean’s Leadership Program hosted its 10th annual Out of the Darkness Walk Nov. 2, which started at Sweeney Field and ended at Barbelin Beach. The event was attended by around 150 people.
The Out of the Darkness Walk’s purpose is to raise awareness about mental health and suicide prevention. The DLP first initiated this walk at St. Joe’s in 2015 to honor a member of the St. Joe’s community who died by suicide.
Michael McNicholas ’27, the co-chair for the event alongside Felicia Carroll ’27, said the 10-year anniversary is a testament to the community St. Joe’s has built.
“Knowing that we’re able to hit 10 years and have 10 years of support, it just reminds us of the purpose and that it’s something bigger than ourselves,” McNicholas said.
Derek Rodriguez ’27, the decorations co-chair, said the 10-year anniversary shows that despite the passage of time, the walk is not going anywhere.
“I would love to come back in five, 10 years and see DLP still continuing this,” Rodriguez said. “So that being 10 years just shows change and how much this school and individuals [are] involved.”
Carroll said she has seen the event positively impact the St. Joe’s community over the years.
“You could just tell the mood of everyone,” Carroll said. “Everyone was really moved. Seeing that was really beautiful.”
Attendee Matt Tsucalas ’29 said the event showed him people care about mental health struggles on campus.
“People at the beginning were talking about how overlooked of an issue it is,” Tsucalas said. “It makes me feel better that there [are] so many people who are aware of it and [are] putting a priority on it.”
McNicholas said the event creates space for people struggling with their mental health by creating visibility and community.
“You look across the field, and there are so many people that you don’t personally know, but you just feel supported by their presence,” McNicholas said.
The walk also reminds students to check in on one another, Carroll said.
“I think that’s what people overlook,” Carroll said. “We’re all busy, and we’re all going through our daily lives and everything, so I think it brings that reminder and makes people feel seen and heard.”
Tsuculas said hearing from fellow students helped participants feel the connection of the community.
“These are people of our community who are in our shoes, who did the same things, been to the same buildings, went to the same classes, made the same connections,” Tsuculas said. “It’s just to show our community and show that we are there.”
Members of the St. Joe’s community seeking support are encouraged to contact the following resources:
Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS), 610-660-1090
Campus Ministry, 610-660-1030
The Office of Student Outreach & Support, 610-660-1149
The Jesuit community, 610-660-1400
Employee Assistance Program, 866-799-2728
