Morgan's Message Chapter Focuses on Positive Mental Health

The Mount Lions roar a lot stronger thanks to the new chapter of Morgan’s Message which was formally established on campus this year. Co-Ambassadors, Courtney Carew ’26 and Ella Lawlor ’27, are at the helm of this initiative which removes the stigma surrounding mental health and provides a safe space for athletes to thrive emotionally while facing the pressures of daily life.

 

According to the Morgan’s Message website, Morgan Rodgers had endured a knee injury in 2017 which abruptly changed her life, leading to surgeries, intensive rehabilitation, anxiety, depression, feelings of isolation, and an overwhelming mental health battle. Choosing not to share her battle with friends and family, she died by suicide in July of 2019.

 

“Although her life was cut way too short,” the website statement says, “Morgan’s legacy of unconditional love remains. Her energy empowers those she has left behind to transform devastation into action. We elevate her story to provide a platform where others feel safe to share their own, be a catalyst for change within our mental healthcare systems and foster a community for which tomorrow always exists. Morgan’s Message is clear: as an athlete, there is no shame in seeking physical healthcare -- the same should be true for mental healthcare.”

 

“I think that Morgan's Message is going to have a positive impact not only on club members but the Mount community as a whole,” said Courtney, who also serves as President of the 2025-2026 Student Council Executive Board. “It's a way to bring fun and relief to student-athletes.

 

“It may be a new club,” added Courtney, who plays field hockey and softball, “but I'm sure that with all the underclassman who are interested in being ambassadors it will grow into a safe space for anyone to join and will help the mission to reduce the stigma around metal health.”

 

Ella, who plays field hockey and lacrosse, added that the New York Yankees, Vanderbilt University’s lacrosse team, and a number of other college teams have taken up the cause as well. She said the Mount would be furthering the Morgan’s Message mission during special dedication games throughout the year where they give out wristbands, t-shirts, and explain the importance of the club to all attendees.

 

“Our dedication games are going to involve the whole Mount community, bringing motivation, excitement, and sisterhood,” said Courtney.

 

“The members of Morgan’s Message at the Mount feel heard, feel like they have a voice, and want to give others a chance to share their feelings if they are struggling,” said Ella.

 

Kevin Kozic, Director of Athletics, said, “Establishing a Morgan’s Message chapter here at the Mount is about more than adding another club. It’s about changing the culture for our students. This chapter gives our athletes a safe space to talk about mental health, support one another, and know they are never alone in what they’re feeling. I believe this will help our students grow not just as competitors, but as healthier, more compassionate people long after the final whistle.”