Building a Culture of Support at Muskingum

Alumnus Mike Gruber '77 returned to campus to train students in reducing stigma surrounding mental health and substance use disorders.

When Mike Gruber '77 returned to Muskingum University this spring, he came not only as an accomplished mental health professional, but as a grateful alumnus eager to give back.

Gruber led "Stamp Out Stigma Together," a two-hour, student-centered training hosted by Muskingum's Active Minds chapter. The program focused on mental health and substance use disorders, stigma and its impact, recovery, and practical strategies for reducing stigma across campus.

For Gruber, the visit was personal.

"My time at Muskingum had a profound impact on my life," he said. "I am grateful for the opportunity to give back to the university, especially around a topic that is not only important to me, but of significance to the Muskingum community".

A psychology major at Muskingum, Gruber credits the University's emphasis on a well-rounded education with shaping his path. Courses in the humanities and social sciences helped form his value system and deepened his commitment to social justice and self-determination for people on the margins of society. That foundation led him to earn a Master of Social Work degree and build a career as a therapist, clinical supervisor, and program manager working with individuals experiencing serious mental disorders.

He also points to longtime faculty member Dr. David Skeen as a lasting influence. Gruber recalled that Skeen took a personal interest in students beyond their academic performance and sought to understand them from a holistic perspective. That example later shaped Gruber's own supervisory style as he managed behavioral health programs.

The connection that brought Gruber back to campus was, as he described it, "pure serendipity." While attending the Khanna Conference with a fellow alumnus, he began a conversation with Dr. Shawn Starcher, associate professor of communication and faculty advisor for Active Minds. When Gruber mentioned his work launching Stand Together, a nationally recognized anti-stigma initiative for middle and high school students, Dr. Starcher immediately saw the potential for collaboration

Stand Together was built on a powerful premise: that educating students about mental health and substance use disorders can reduce stigma and encourage those who need help to seek treatment. Gruber believes that premise applies just as strongly on college campuses.

"Students tend to listen to their peers more readily than adults about these issues," Gruber said, explaining why the Muskingum training was designed to be student-centered and open to the broader campus community. His role was to provide accurate information and research-based insight, then empower students to determine how best to communicate that knowledge to their peers.

The training addressed common myths, including the false belief that people with mental health or substance use disorders are violent, weak, or incapable of recovery. Gruber emphasized that recovery is an ongoing process, often marked by ups and downs, but one in which individuals can learn to manage challenges effectively and lead satisfying, productive lives.

"When students are struggling, it can be difficult to see a light at the end of the tunnel," he said. "It's important for them to know they are not alone, that there are resources available, and there are people who want to help".

For Dr. Starcher, creating space for those conversations is essential.

"Mental health is something that impacts everyone at some level," he said. "Students experience so much stress, and they need to know that there are positive ways to deal with their struggles".

Student organizations such as Active Minds play a critical role in normalizing the conversation, he added. By giving students a place to connect, check in, and feel heard, the organization helps reduce isolation and challenge stigma.

Karisa Bowers, a senior psychology major and president of Muskingum's Active Minds chapter, said the Feb. 18 training brought together chapter members and other students interested in mental health advocacy. The session included hands-on group activities and practical strategies for supporting peers.

"Knowledge is power," Bowers said. "Understanding stigma, including the types of stigma and how it is perpetuated, helps students develop a better understanding of what they can do to support their peers".

She noted that with roughly one-third of college students experiencing a mental health or substance use disorder, the issue is both prevalent and personal. Open conversations can help students recognize that they are not alone and that support systems exist within their campus community.

Gruber stressed that eliminating stigma can remove one of the most significant barriers to treatment. While individuals can influence attitudes within their own families and circles of friends, he believes collective action can change an entire campus culture.

That collective spirit reflects what he values most about Muskingum.

"I think what strengthens a community is when there is give and take between generations," Gruber said. Alumni bring professional experience and perspective, while students offer fresh insight and energy. When both are equal partners at the table, the result is lasting impact.

His message to current students is both simple and empowering: "Your voice, individually and collectively, can be a powerful tool in educating your peers and promoting healthier lifestyles. When students are healthier, the entire community benefits".

Through alumni leadership, faculty support, and student initiative, Muskingum's Active Minds chapter is helping ensure that the conversation continues. By stamping out stigma together, Muskies across generations are building a campus culture rooted in understanding, compassion, and hope.