Meet Your Support Squad!
Dylan Cole
President
Major: Biomedical Science and Spanish / Psychological Sciences Minor
Pronouns: he/him/his
Hometown: Mesa, Arizona
Yooo! I’m Dylan! I’m a student of the Interdisciplinary Global Program (IGP) planning to study abroad during the 2022-2023 academic year and graduate in Spring 2024. I’m a practicing Christian, an avid hiker, snowboarder, and I’m a spoken word poet with a huge interest in literature, philosophy, and writing!!!
I am passionate about mental health wellness, and am looking to offer myself to people in a manner allowed by my current scope of knowledge through peer mentoring. In the future, I aspire to expand my scope and practice in psychiatry following a medical school track.
Olivia Vaerini
Vice-President
Major: Elementary Education / Psychological Sciences Minor
Pronouns: she/her/hers
Hometown: Rancho Cucamonga, California
Hi friends! My name is Olivia, and I am an Honors student pursuing an Elementary Education major. I will be graduating in Spring 2023. I plan on beginning my career as a teacher and eventually getting my Master’s and Doctorate in Educational Psychology to become more involved in advocating for mental health awareness among the tiny humans!
I am very passionate about mental health because it is something that I have dealt with as well as something that a number of my family members and friends have dealt with for years. I joined the Mental Health Support Squad so that I can help work toward breaking the stigma associated with mental health needs. I believe that this is something that nobody should be ashamed of dealing with, and by breaking the stigma, I feel that students will be more willing to come forward and share their experiences.
Molly Swift
Secretary
Majors: Psychological Sciences / Sociology and Criminal Justice Minors
Pronouns: she/her/hers
Hometown: Chandler, Arizona
Hey! My name is Molly and I am studying Psychological Sciences with an emphasis in social/personality. I will be graduating in Spring 2023 and will then pursue a Master’s degree. I plan to become a therapist so I can help individuals who struggle with their mental health. I want to do my best to help those in need to live a less stressful life.
I am passionate about mental health wellness because I have been around it my whole life. Not only have I personally been affected by it, but many people around me have as well. I want people to become comfortable in talking about their mental health and how it affects their lives. I want to get rid of the stigma that it is wrong to talk about mental health. I hope to gain a knowledge base to help others through my participation with the Mental Health Support Squad and be able to listen to others’ journeys in order to best help them.
Annalise Hoffman
Event Planner
Majors: Psychological Sciences (BA)
Pronouns: she/her/hers
Hometown: Tucson, Arizona
Hello! My name is Annalise. My major is Psychological Sciences because I hope to work with and help people who have a mental illness or who struggle with their mental health. I hope to continue my education after graduation and am considering pursuing a Master’s degree in Counseling Psychology. I know that I want to pursue a career that helps others.
I am so excited to be part of the Mental Health Support Squad because I want to help remove the stigma surrounding mental health and mental illness. My goal as a member of the squad is to support others as I learn how to best assist them on their mental health journey. Mental health is something that affects every person, whether we are aware of it or not. I am here to list and support you through any trials and triumphs!
Jerusalen De La Rosa
PR Manager
Majors: Biomedical Science and Comparative Cultural Studies / Chemistry and Japanese Minors
Pronouns: she/her/hers
Hometown: Avondale, Arizona
Hello! Konnichiwa! Hola! My name is Jerusalen and I am an IGP student studying Biomedical Science and Comparative Cultural Studies. In the future, I plan to pursue a career in Optometry and continue to share my mental health journey. When I’m not working, I love to paint, meditate, and binge watch Netflix or Hulu.
Mental health has been a huge part of my life from a young age. My own mental health struggles motivate me to help others who may be dealing with similar issues. I am very passionate about educating anyone who may not know much about mental health and break the stigma that surrounds it. I believe that in order to grow we must first become comfortable with having uncomfortable conversations!
Jessica Andrade
Majors: Psychological Sciences and Women’s and Gender Studies
Pronouns: she/her/hers
Hometown: Tehachapi, California
Hi! My name is Jessica. After graduation, I want to carry out research and enroll in a doctorate program in Educational Psychology. In my spare time, I enjoy baking three-layer cakes and going on hikes with my pug, Ziggy!
I’m enthusiastic about mental health and want to help remove the stigma associated with it. I joined the MHSS because I want to help inspire other students who are struggling with mental health issues. College can be a wonderful and eye-opening experience, but it isn’t without its challenges. Being a part of this group allows me to take a stand to support and encourage other students.
Kaly Arvizu
Major: Social Work
Hometown: Navajo Nation
Yá’át’ééh! I’m Kaly, a Navajo, Social Work major. I’m also NAU’s Indigenous Ambassador! I hope to one day be able to use my degree back home on the Navajo Nation to assist my community. When I’m not volunteering and doing mutual aid work, I like to write, bike, garden, play video games, and listen to music.
I chose Social Work because I’m very passionate about helping others and destigmatizing seeking mental health help, and I’m glad the Mental Health Support Squad allows me to do both of those things. I have had a lot of experience dealing with my own mental health needs and feel more than capable to assist others with those same issues.
Kinna-Marie Barton
Major: Psychological Sciences
Pronouns: she/her/hers
Hometown: Bagdad, Arizona
Hi everyone! My name is Kinna-Marie but you can just call me Kinna. I’m a student here at NAU working on getting my Master’s in Psychology. My dream job is to one day own my own private practice for psychology. However, I want to start by career by working with young kids in schools who need counseling. One of my favorite things to do is listen to people talk; I think I’m a pretty good listener. My favorite way to take care of my own mental health is to put my phone on do-not-disturb and listen to music.
Mental health is something that has always been super important to me. I have struggled with mental health my whole life and that is why it is so important to me to try and help others with it. I want people to feel comfortable talking about mental health. I am hoping I can make a difference and help as many people as I can.
Sage Bohner
Major: Psychological Sciences / Social Science Forensics Minor
Pronouns: she/her/hers
Hometown: Bay Area, California
Hey! My name is Sage and I am a Psychological Sciences major. I am planning to graduate in Spring 2024. I am not exactly sure what I want to do yet, but I know I am interested in pursuing a career that involves psychology, whatever that may be. When I am not in school, I love being outdoors, and I also like to play the drums.
I am passionate about mental health because I don’t think there are currently enough available resources. In the school where I came from, there was a lot of pressure and not enough resources to help with student mental health. I am hoping that I can be part of the solution and help make mental health resources more accessible for everyone.
Brooke Claverie
Major: Psychological Sciences / Anthropology Minor
Hometown: Los Angeles, California
Hi there! My name is Brooke and I’m a Psychological Sciences major. I’m pursuing a career in research with a focus on neuropsychology. In my free time I like to read, listen to music or podcasts, and sometimes go on walks around town.
I care about mental health partially because of my major, but also because I understand how it feels to need a friend in a time of stress. I want to be that friend to anyone who needs one because no one should feel alone, especially when they’re feeling down. Through my involvement in the Mental Health Support Squad, I hope I can provide support for students, the campus community, and anyone else who may need it.
Ananda Cook
Majors: Psychological Sciences / Biology Minor
Pronouns: she/her/hers
Hometown: Kailua Kona, Hawaii
Aloha! My name is Ananda, and I am a student studying Psychological Sciences with an emphasis in Neuroscience. I am planning to graduate in Fall 2022. I want to attend graduate school and pursue a career in the field of cognitive and behavioral psychology. I like to go hiking and hang out with my friends. I am a first generation college student and also a first generation American.
I am a member of the Mental Health Support Squad because I want to help support my university community in understanding the importance of mental health and how it impacts our daily lives. I have experienced living in a culture where mental health is not considered important and I want to help others who have had similar cultural experiences to become more open and understanding of mental health struggles.
Kaelyn Darst
Major: Public Health / Health and Wellness Coaching Minor
Hometown: Chino Valley, Arizona
Hello! My name is Kaelyn and I am studying Health Sciences here at NAU. I changed my major from Graphic Design to Public Health earlier this year, and I will be graduating in Spring 2022. When I graduate, I want to work in the field of maternal and child health helping young children and expectant parents with important health challenges including nutrition, emotional wellness, physical fitness, growth, development, and many other things. I love camping, fishing, babies, animals, and talking to people about pretty much anything!
I joined the Mental Health Support Squad to help my fellow students, friends, and family with their struggles and to become an advocate of mental health who can provide resources to those looking for guidance.
Catherine Gaillard
Major: Psychological Sciences
Pronouns: she/her/hers
Hometown: Peoria, Arizona
Hi! I’m Catherine and I’m hoping to one day become a counselor or therapist! I love listening to Taylor Swift’s music and pop music in general. I also really enjoy watching movies and reality competition shows.
I wanted to become part of the Mental Health Support Squad because I’ve always wanted to help people. This program is a great way to provide more resources to those who need them, so it’s wonderful to be a part of that. Being able to normalize mental health is very important to me as well. I hope I can be as supportive and open as possible to whomever needs it!
Mary Kate Gilpatrick
Major: Psychological Sciences
Pronouns: she/they/he
Hometown: Surprise, Arizona
Hey! My name is Mary Kate but I also go by Mary or Mark. I am studying Psychological Sciences with the intention of becoming a teen and young adult psychiatrist. I enjoy reading, hanging out with my friends, and cosplay, though I don’t do a lot other than sleep.
I didn’t realize I wanted to be a part of the Mental Health Support Squad until I was introduced to it through NAU 299. Now I feel that joining was the best possible decision for me. I value mental health more than anything and I want to support others in any way I can.
Samantha Hernandez
Majors: Psychological Sciences / Biology Minor
Pronouns: she/her/hers
Hometown: Peoria, Arizona
Hey there peeps! My name is Samantha and I am studying Psychological Sciences with a minor in Biology! I am on track to graduate in Spring 2022. I plan on applying for occupational therapy school once I graduate, and am considering relocating to California at that time. I love my dogs and would do anything to have them here in Flagstaff with me! I am also a big foodie and enjoy hiking in my free time.
I feel that mental health is such an important factor in our lives. Few people seek help for their mental health because of the stigma or lack of resources. I joined the Mental Health Support Squad because I want to help advocate for others and remind them that seeking support is important and they are not alone. I hope to continue to gain knowledge about mental health, not only for myself, but to support others in my life whenever they feel that they are challenged by their mental health.
Abbey Leach
Major: Psychological Sciences / Business Minor
Pronouns: she/her/hers
Hometown: Chico, California
Hello! My name is Abbey and I am a Psychological Sciences major. After graduation, I plan to go on and get my Master’s degree to become a certified counselor one day.
I am very passionate about mental health because it is something my loved ones and myself have dealt with personally. I wanted to join the Mental Health Support Squad because I would love to help make people’s lives easier. I want to help people reduce the stigma that surrounds taking care of one’s mental health and I think one of the first steps is making it a priority.
Ashly Levya
Major: Psychological Sciences / Criminology Minor
Pronouns: she/they/he
Hometown: Mesa, Arizona
Hello! My name is Ashly but I also go by Ash! My major is Psychology because I love learning about the mind. I’m minoring in Criminology because I have always been fascinated by true crime. I started my freshman year here and I’m hoping to graduate from here too! A bit about myself – I am a big fan of anime, manga, K-pop and J-pop, and I’m always down for recommendations. I really like being creative and drawing and have hopes of making my own comic someday, however I am still lacking in the “coherent story” department. I am also a fan of storytelling and projects with cool lore so any ARG’s, online mysteries, or book recommendations to look into are very much welcomed.
I joined the Mental Health Support Squad because advocacy and helping have always been very important to me. The lack of understanding and resources I have seen in my own community have been my primary drive to help people understand what mental health is and what it means. Personally, I’ve struggled with a lot of mental health needs growing up and I’m proud to say that I have reached a point where I am ready to help people with their own. I hope I can become a good, safe space for people and in due time, become good friends!
Alexis Macready
Major: Psychological Sciences / Criminology and Criminal Justice Minor
Hometown: Lake Havasu City, Arizona
Hi! My name is Lex. I am majoring in Psychology and minoring in Criminology. I am from Lake Havasu City, AZ. I have a big family back home. I am the oldest of 8; I have 6 sisters and 1 brother. I am a cheerleader on the NAU team, and I have been doing cheerleading for about 10 years.
Mental health is really important to me and I am so glad to be part of the Support Squad! I want to help people and make my NAU community a happier and better place. I am so glad I am able to do that through the Mental Health Support Squad and become closer with my peers as well
Sharon Martland
Majors: Clinical Mental Health Counseling
Pronouns: she/her/hers
Hometown: Oceanside, California
Hello! My name is Sharon and I am a grad student in NAU’s Master of Clinical Mental Health Counseling program. Eventually, I will be a licensed professional counselor and hope to work with underserved communities to increase access to wellness. I am a working mom of two great kiddos and a cute tortoise named Steve.
I am passionate about social justice and believe access to mental health is an integral part of creating a more just world. Because of the stigma that is still associated with mental health, too many of us suffer from our traumas and everyday stressors in silence. My goal as a member of the Mental Health Support Squad is to contribute to NAU’s community of advocacy around mental health, emphasize the importance of self-care, and help myself and others improve their overall wellness. I believe we do that by being real about who we are and what we struggle with. It will take vulnerability, courage, and it always takes a village! Join us.
Litzy Medina Martinez
Majors: Psychological Sciences (emphasis in Social/Personality)
Pronouns: she/her/hers
Hometown: Goodyear, Arizona
Hi, I’m Litzy, and I am a psychological sciences major graduating in Spring 2023. My plan after college is to work with children in an educational setting. I eventually want to pursue my Master’s degree in order to practice psychology in a clinical setting. In my free time, I enjoy working on small DIY projects, practicing art in order to enhance my makeup skills, and catching up on television shows.
I knew I wanted to pursue a degree in psychology from a young age. Growing up, mental health was not something that was often addressed. I joined the Mental Health Support Squad to help provide people with the resources necessary to heal.
Gabrielle Miller
Major: Elementary Education / Early Childhood Certificate
Pronouns: she/her/hers
Hometown: Phoenix, Arizona
Hi everyone! My name is Gabi and I am studying Elementary Education with a certificate in Early Childhood. My dream job is to become either a preschool or kindergarten teacher. After graduation, I plan on going back to school to get my Master’s degree. I enjoy hanging out with my family and friends. Personally, I take care of my own mental health by listening to calming music and journaling.
I am stoked to be part of the Mental Health Support Squad and to serve as a support system for my peers. I know that many students struggle with their mental health and I want to provide them with a place where they feel safe. I believe that by participating in this club, I am able to help and uplift others.
Stephanie Morales
Majors: Psychological Sciences (emphasis in Clinical)
Pronouns: she/her/hers
Hometown: Glendale, Arizona
Hey everyone! I am Stephanie and I am studying to become a clinical psychologist. I plan on graduating early in Spring 2022, yet I am always ready for the next adventure and am planning on going to graduate school. My time at NAU has been a great experience and has taught me to be present in the moment because time flies. I enjoy good conversations, music, adventures big or small, my family, and my two dogs Canela (Cinnamon) who is a Chihuahua and Azúcar (Sugar) who is a Pitbull.
I joined the Mental Health Support Squad because being there for others and advocating for mental health has been a passion of mine for as long as I can remember. I had the pleasure of working at a behavioral health facility during the summer of 2020, and that helped me to see just how much I love it. I want to be there for people who are struggling with their mental health because it is important to get rid of the stigma; we all need help at times. Mental health wellness means that we can all work together to pull through. Being a part of the Mental Health Support Squad reminds me that we are all a team, and we are not alone.
Abigail Parker
Major: Psychological Sciences (BS)
Pronouns: she/her/hers
Hometown: El Segundo, California
Hello! My name is Abigail (Abby), and I will be graduating in fall 2023. I hope to eventually become a counselor. In addition to being in the Mental Health Support Squad, I participate in undergraduate research and I am a member of the hiking club.
I am passionate about mental health and think that it should be openly talked about. As a support squad member, I want to help spread mental health awareness and education. I hope I can provide support and resources to others.
Sydney Roquemore
Major: Psychological Sciences / Studio Art Minor
Pronouns: she/they
Hometown: Chandler, Arizona
Hey! My name is Sydney and I’m a Psychology major and a Studio Art minor studying here at NAU. I love any kind of art – painting and drawing are my two favorites. I also love singing and playing guitar and piano. You can often catch me at the gym lifting weights or on picnics with my friends!
I am so excited to be a peer mentor! I can’t wait to offer support and help my peers out with their challenges so we can all have a great experience at NAU!
Jadeyn Shaw
Major: Communication Sciences and Disorders / Psychological Sciences and Business Minors
Hometown: Phoenix, Arizona
Hello everyone! My name is Jadeyn and I am a Communication Sciences and Disorders major, hoping to pursue a career in speech therapy. I am a Christian and love exploring the outdoors, spending time with family, meeting new people, listening to music and podcasts, and traveling! Fun fact – I am currently on the NAU club volleyball team.
I joined the Mental Health Support Squad because mental health is so important and often overlooked. I am so excited to be an advocate for mental health and help others who may be experiencing similar things to what I have gone through or am still going through. Peer mentoring is such a cool concept and I am excited to hopefully make a difference on campus and help other students!
Mackenzie Stacy
Major: Criminal Justice / Forensic Science Minor
Hometown: Phoenix, Arizona
Hello everyone! My name is Mackenzie Stacy and I am getting my bachelor’s in Criminal Justice with a minor in forensic science. After graduation, I can’t wait to start investigating! I have always loved crime podcasts and television shows. And guess what? Clue is my favorite game to play.
I wanted to become a part of the Mental Health Support Squad because mental health has always been important to me. From the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, I have been working on my own blog to help share my personal experiences with mental health and also to bring more awareness. Mental health is very important as it plays a role in how we are able to function in our lives. I want to help share support and to lower the stigma that stops individuals from receiving help. Because I have personally known the stress of life in college, I would love to help decrease it for others!
Jacqueline Talley
Major: Business Marketing
Pronouns: she/her/hers
Hometown: Lino Lakes, Minnesota
Hello everyone! My name is Jacqueline, but please call me Jacquie. Here at NAU, I participate in campus events, adventure outside a lot, and frequently use the gym facilities. I love to hang out with my friends and try new things, meet new people, and learn new things.
I joined the Mental Health Support Squad to become more connected to my school community and to help others in their unseen struggles. Everyone has a different story, and you never know what’s really going on with someone until you ask. I want to be around to listen!
Tate Sheldon
Major: Sociology / Social Science Forensics Minor
Pronouns: he/him/his
Hometown: Mesa, Arizona
Hey everyone! My name is Tate and I am studying Sociology here at NAU. After graduation, I hope to be able to use my degree to go into some sort of therapy and be able to help people. My hobbies include playing video games, watching sports, and working on cars.
I have been very passionate about mental health from a young age. My dad is a therapist and my mom is a social worker, so I grew up in a very mental health-oriented environment. I was always taught how important mental health is and I hope to be able to teach others about that as well. I have also had my own battles with mental illness and I want to help anybody who may be going through something similar by being supportive and accepting.
Cole Theisen
Major: Marketing
Pronouns: he/him/his
Hometown: Granger, Iowa
Hi, my name is Cole, and I’m a student of the Marketing and Professional Sales program. I’m an avid sports fan (go Hawkeyes, Vikings, and Twins), and I enjoy watching movies and playing baseball. I’m looking forward to meeting the mentees involved in this program!
In the future, I aspire to work for a college athletics department in either fundraising or the marketing department to deepen my passion for sports. I am passionate about mental health wellness to reduce the stigma that is currently around it, and I am interested in supporting others through peer mentoring.
Sadie Warden
Major: Psychological Sciences
Pronouns: she/her/hers
Hometown: East Moline, Illinois
Hey! My name is Sadie and I am majoring in Psychological Sciences, planning to eventually get my Master’s degree. I’m originally from Illinois, but I’ve lived in Arizona for several years now. As for hobbies, I like to read, write, paint, go on walks, listen to music, and spend time with family and friends. I consider myself to be a mental health advocate and I am getting more involved within the NAU community.
Mental health is very important to me and I am glad to be a part of the Mental Health Support Squad! I joined because I really want to be able to help my fellow peers with any thoughts, feelings, or problems that they may have during their college experience. I hope to create a safe place for my mentees.
Jacob Wilson
Major: Criminology and Criminal Justice
Pronouns: he/him/his
Hometown: Phoenix, Arizona
Hi! My name is Jake and while I’m a criminology and criminal justice major, I actually plan on pursuing further education and a career in clinical mental health counseling. I’ve worked for Crisis Text Line for two years, I’m an AmeriCorps member, and I’ve been a peer mentor for just over a year, so counseling and support is a passion of mine.
As someone who has struggled with their own mental health for years, I know how hard it can be to attend college while struggling to stay afloat. Reaching out for help is the first and hardest step of coping and recovery, so I commend you for your interest in the Mental Health Support Squad. I hope to support students as best I can as a peer mentor, and I’m more than willing to meet students halfway on their path forward.
Reese Yellig
Major: Psychology / Biology Minor
Hometown: Issaquah, Washington
Hi! My name is Reese, and I am studying psychology. I love the outdoors and exploring. Hiking is my favorite thing to do in my free time and growing up in the PNW I have discovered so many beautiful places. I think finding things you love helps to improve your mental wellbeing. My goal is to help you find something that helps you grow and improve your own mental wellbeing.
Psychology has always been my biggest passion and I am so excited to be able to share it with others. Mental health is very important to me; being able to support others through their life has helped me to become an empathetic person. I want to share my skills and resources with others so they can find as much happiness in their life as possible.