A new UMW initiative, Eagles Let’s Talk, offers support, education and conversation to support student-athletes’ mental health.

When student-athletes sign up to compete at the collegiate level, they have a goal – to play the game and win. All too often, mental health takes a back seat. That’s where Eagles Let’s Talk comes in. 

The program aims to help the University of Mary Washington’s more than 525 student-athletes – from soccer and lacrosse players to swimmers and equestrians – identify and discuss stressors that could affect their performance in the classroom or on the field. Spearheaded by UMW Assistant Athletic Trainer Katie Carnaghi, the initiative lays out a full game plan, with monthly meetings, timely topics like nutrition and stress management, and most of all, a safe space for sharing concerns and conversation. 

“It really does make such a difference to have an open and safe environment that allows people to feel comfortable to talk about the tough stuff,” said senior Krista Rogers, a volleyball player and Student-Athlete Advisory Committee (SAAC) member who helped get Eagles Let’s Talk off the ground. Read more.

UMW students participated in a six-day event to recognize ASPIRE, an acronym that stands for Mary Washington’s core values. Pictured here, from left to right: newly elected SGA President Jaylyn Long ’24, who conceived the idea for ASPIRE Week; current SGA President Joey Zeldin ’23; Martina Pugh; Conner Rogers; and Carlos Nunes. Photo by Sam Cahill.

From the moment University of Mary Washington students become Eagles, they’re guided by a set of values called “ASPIRE.”

The acronym, which stands for traits like accountability, respect and engagement, is so key to UMW, thought junior and Student Government Association (SGA) Vice President Jaylyn Long, that the values – and students’ commitment to them – could use a little refreshing. Her solution, ASPIRE Week, a six-day celebration representing each attribute, débuted this spring. Packed with educational opportunities, tabling events, banner signings and more, the week and its themes allowed other campus organizations to integrate their own functions into each day.

“I really enjoyed the support from campus partners,” said Long, now the newly elected SGA president. “It created a deeper connection among student leaders.”

Here’s how she spelled out the week. Read more.