From Four Members to Chapter of the Year: Maryville University’s NAMI On Campus Makes History

Some stories begin quietly. This one began with just four executive board members, a bold vision, and one student's passion for mental health advocacy. One year later, it's a story of awards, growth, and a campus community transformed.

NAMI St. Louis has named Maryville University's NAMI On Campus chapter as its Chapter of the Year, an honor recognizing a chapter that has demonstrated exceptional commitment to supporting students, promoting mental health awareness, and advancing NAMI's mission on campus and throughout the community.

"Maryville has been a tremendous partner to NAMI St. Louis," said Kennedy Yowell, Volunteer & Program Coordinator for NAMI St. Louis. "The chapter's dedication to reducing stigma and increasing awareness reflects NAMI's vision of Mental Health for All, and the impact of its work extends beyond the university campus into the broader community.

At the heart of this achievement is Cadie Buschjost, program ambassador and chapter president, whose journey with NAMI began in May 2025 as an Ending the Silence Presenter with NAMI St. Louis. Through that role, she was presented with the opportunity to bring NAMI On Campus to Maryville; an opportunity she eagerly embraced.

Before NAMI On Campus, Maryville had no student organization dedicated specifically to mental health. Cadie saw this as a clear need and an opportunity to make a change.

The Story Behind the Chapter

Cadie's motivation is deeply personal. "I've been there," she explained. "I've been the student that needed help but felt seeking support was scary. That's what NAMI can help with. It's a way to bridge the gap into finding support by making it accessible by simply joining. It's not just support for when you're struggling, it's a way to find community."

Remarkable Growth in Just One Year

Maryville's NAMI On Campus numbers tell a powerful story. The chapter, which initially launched with the bare minimum of four required executive board members, now has over 50 general members and 8 executive board members, including new social media and community engagement chairs and a vice president position.

In just its first year, the chapter hosted nine successful events, and more are planned for the semester, like the Spooky Speak Out, where participants can dress up in their favorite Halloween costumes and share personal stories. "It's hard to share heavy things, so we do what we can to lighten the mood and make everyone comfortable," Cadie shared. "It's a chance to look back at difficult experiences and recognize growth." They're also hosting a Coping Skill Event where individuals can create succulent art, make stress balls, explore walking trails, enjoy coloring books, or experiment with other sensory tools. "Everyone copes differently. No matter what tools they use, we just want to meet students where they are at."

What Makes This Chapter Special

From bringing therapy dogs on campus to holiday card-making events, awareness activities, and connections to mental health resources, Maryville's NAMI On Campus has consistently found creative and meaningful ways to engage the campus community. "What stands out most about Maryville's chapter is its commitment to creating a culture where conversations about mental health are welcomed and encouraged," Yowell explained. "College students face significant mental health challenges, and many struggle in silence. Through the chapter's efforts, students are reminded that mental health is real, help is available, and they are not alone. We are honored to recognize Maryville University as our NAMI On Campus Chapter of the Year and are grateful for the leadership, passion, and commitment that Cadie and the entire chapter have brought to the organization."

A Legacy Being Built and Passed On

This spring , Cadie will hand off the presidency to the next generation. Cadie hopes that as she passes the torch, Maryville's NAMI On Campus continues to grow and support students. "We want students to know that they are not alone," she says. "They deserve support no matter what challenges they may face."

Join the Movement

To every Maryville student: whether you're passionate about advocacy, looking for community, or simply curious, there's a place for you. If you're interested in joining or applying for a leadership role - even one that doesn't exist yet - the chapter wants to hear from you. Reach out to Cadie directly at [email protected] and follow them on Instagram . Because at the end of the day, the message is simple: You are not alone. Help is available. And everyone deserves support.

Congratulations to Cadie Buschjost and the entire Maryville University NAMI On Campus chapter, the NAMI St. Louis Chapter of the Year!