Supporting the UCF Community at the 2025 Out of the Darkness Campus Walk
On March 1, 2025, UCF Public Safety held its inaugural Out of the Darkness Campus Walk to raise awareness about mental health and suicide prevention. Hundreds of students, faculty, and community members gathered at Memory Mall to participate in the walk, which was organized in partnership with the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP), UCF Active Minds, UCF Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS), and UCF Restores. The event raised over $18,000 for AFSP’s research and educational programs — a significant achievement for a first-time event.
The walk began with an emotional opening ceremony featuring heartfelt speeches from survivors, mental health advocates, and university leaders. Chief Carl Metzger shared his personal experience of losing his nephew, Josh, to suicide. In his speech, Chief Metzger emphasized the importance of open dialogue about mental health, stating, “Three words: talk about it. If we talk about it, we can do something about it and help fix it. We can save lives and make a difference.”
Participants walked in remembrance of those lost and in support of those struggling, with many wearing honor beads representing their personal connections to the cause:
- Orange – Loss of Sibling
- White – Loss of Child
- Gold – Loss of Parent
- Red – Loss of Spouse/Partner
- Purple – Loss of a Relative or Friend
- Silver – First Responder or Military Loss
- Green – Personal Struggle or Attempt
- Teal – Supporting People Who Struggle or Have Attempted
- Rainbow – Support of the LGBTQIA+ Community
- Blue – Support for Suicide Prevention
The event held deep significance for the UCF community, which experienced the loss of three students to suicide in 2023. The walk provided a powerful opportunity for healing and connection, reinforcing the importance of mental health support and open conversations. Many participants expressed hope that this walk would become an annual tradition, fostering a culture of understanding and support at UCF.
One of the most meaningful aspects of the event was the strong sense of support from the UCF community and leadership. Working at UCF means being part of an organization that not only recognizes the importance of mental health but also actively supports it. The university’s commitment to student and staff well-being was evident in the organization and turnout of the event. Events like this remind us that UCF is more than just a place to work; it’s a community that cares.
A huge thank you to all the walkers and donors who helped make this event a success. The funds raised will support AFSP’s mission to save lives and bring hope to those affected by suicide.
