Sometimes making a difference in someone’s mental health starts with something small — checking in on a colleague, speaking openly about mental health or creating an environment where people feel seen and supported.
Those everyday actions, along with larger efforts to advocate for mental health and well-being, are at the heart of the new UAB Mental Health Champion Award, launched by UAB Cares to recognize members of the UAB community who are making a meaningful difference in the lives of others.
Nominations for the inaugural award open are open now and will be accepted through Oct. 30.
“Some of the most meaningful work to support mental health happens through the actions we take every day,” said UAB Cares Director Angela Stowe, Ph.D. “The Mental Health Champion Award gives us an opportunity to recognize the people across UAB who are doing that work and, in doing so, inspire others to consider how each of us can contribute to a culture of care.”
The award is designed to celebrate individuals whose advocacy, leadership and commitment to supporting others help foster a campus culture where mental health is valued, stigma is reduced and members of the UAB community can thrive.
Nominees do not have to lead a formal mental health program or initiative to make an impact. A Mental Health Champion might be someone who consistently supports colleagues or classmates, uses their voice to raise awareness, connects others with resources or simply helps create a space where people feel comfortable talking about mental health.
“We want people to think broadly about what it means to be a mental health champion,” Stowe said. “Advocacy can take many forms. What matters is the impact someone has on the people around them and the role they play in making UAB a more compassionate and supportive community.”
The award is open to members of the UAB community in five categories:
- Undergraduate students
- Graduate and professional students
- Postdoctoral scholars
- Faculty
- Staff
Anyone in the UAB community may submit a nomination. Faculty, staff and students are encouraged to consider colleagues, classmates, mentors, supervisors or others whose commitment to mental health and well-being has had a positive impact.
Nominations close Oct. 30, and award recipients will be announced in January 2027. Visit uab.edu/uabcares/champion to submit a nomination.