This webinar is part of the CUMU Student Success Webinar Series sponsored by Rokwire.
PRESENTERS: Crystal Benjamin and Constance Lacy, University of North Texas at Dallas
Addressing the escalating mental health needs among students presents a pressing challenge for universities. The Building Blazers Behavioral Health Peer Support Project is a proactive response to this challenge. Grounded in a peer support approach, the project facilitates transparent conversations among students about mental health and coping strategies, fostering a supportive campus environment.
Participants in this presentation can expect to gain insights into the power of peer support in addressing mental health challenges among university students. They will learn about the project implementation and its positive outcomes, including increased awareness, improved support utilization, and enhanced campus community resilience.
CUMU members: REGISTER HERE
ABOUT THE PANELISTS
Crystal Benjamin, Ph.D., CFLE, is a lecturer of child development and family studies at University of North Texas at Dallas. She holds a Ph.D. in family studies and an MS in marital and family therapy from Loma Linda University. She is also a Certified Family Life Educator (CFLE). Dr. Benjamin’s scholarly work is now centered on technology integration into mental health practice, and peer support in academia. She has experience working with diverse groups and individuals and has lectured at both local and international universities.
Constance L. Lacy, LCSW, MAC, Ph.D., is an associate professor and dean of the School of Behavioral Health and Human Services at the University of North Texas at Dallas. Dr. Lacy received a Ph.D. in social work from the University of Texas at Arlington. With a background in clinical social work, Dr. Lacy has extensive research and intervention expertise in the family court system, specializing in family counseling and community administration. As a Harry S. Truman Scholar, Dr. Lacy has delved into the topics of resiliency among African American Youth and the impact of conflict on distressed children and families. Her research has covered food insecurity, community stress, collective impact, conflict resolution, and mental health. Dr. Lacy has also been an active presenter at national and international forums, sharing her insights on leadership, empowering family systems, and leveraging action research for nonprofit infrastructures, always advocating for a collaborative, inclusive approach.