Belonging

Winds of Awareness

As part of Suicide Prevention Awareness Month in September, the Center for Counseling and Student Development (CCSD) hosted Winds of Awareness, a three-day campus initiative focused on mental health, suicide prevention, and community support. The event featured 1,100 pinwheels displayed on the Main Campus Student Center lawn, symbolizing the approximate number of college students lost to suicide each year and serving as a powerful reminder of the importance of connection and care.

In the spring, the Winds of Awareness pinwheels were displayed again during ARRRGH™ U OK? Day at the Health Sciences Campus, extending the message of support across the university community. At both events, CCSD staff provided mental health resources and encouraged students to engage in open conversations about well-being, reinforcing ECU’s commitment to fostering a campus culture where students feel seen, supported, and a true sense of belonging.

Pirate’s Perch

Pirate’s Perch, a new initiative led by the Dean of Students Office, is creating meaningful opportunities for connection across the ECU community. Designed to strengthen relationships and reduce loneliness, Pirate’s Perch provides a welcoming space where students, faculty, and staff can engage with community members in genuine conversation and build a stronger sense of belonging.

Through trained volunteers who are available to listen and connect, the initiative fosters an inclusive environment where individuals feel seen, supported, and valued.

Got Consent? ACOW Program

Campus Living hosted the Got Consent? ACOW program series across the College Hill, Central, and West End neighborhoods to promote healthy relationship education and student well-being. ACOW, which stands for Active, Coherent, Ongoing, and Willing, encouraged students to explore the meaning of healthy consent and the role it plays in building respectful relationships.

Across eight programs, approximately 456 students participated in interactive activities and conversations focused on communication, respect, and building positive relationship experiences. Reinforcing Campus Livings’ commitment to fostering a safe, supportive, and informed residential community.