June 22, 2011

Cooley Law School Students and Faculty Walk to Raise Awareness About Serious Mental Health Issues

About 30 students, family, and faculty members from Cooley Law School’s Grand Rapids campus participated recently in the Mental Health Foundations’ ninth annual Stomp Out Stigma Walk. The Cooley team raised over $800 through pledges for the Mental Health Foundation.

Cooley's team of walkers helped raise awareness about mental health issues in the 9th annual Stomp Out Stigma Walk in Grand Rapids.

The annual Stomp Out Stigma – Walk for Mental Health is held in May in conjunction with National Mental Health Month. Planned collaboratively with and sponsored by local mental health service providers, the annual event strives to raise awareness that the stigma associated with mental illness is one of the greatest barriers that keeps people from seeking help.

One mental health issue of concern is teen suicide, noted Cooley Law School Associate Professor Victoria Vuletich.

"The American Foundation for Suicide Prevention states that suicide is the fifth leading cause of death among those 5-14 years old and that suicide is the third leading cause of death among those 15-24 years old. That so many of our children and teenagers are taking their lives poses great consequences to our society Cooley is proud to be involved in the effort to address this national tragedy," Vuletich said.

Cooley Law School is the largest law school in the nation. Founded in 1972, the private, non-profit law school operates J.D. programs across Michigan in Lansing, Auburn Hills, Grand Rapids and Ann Arbor.  Today, Cooley Law School has more than 15,000 graduates across the nation and worldwide and also offers joint degree and master of laws programs. Cooley offers enrollment three times a year; in January, May and September. Additional information about Cooley can be found at cooley.edu.