By Emma Hudson, ’26
What does it mean to be a part of the Spartan Army? You could find the answers in the support, braveness and compassion on display at USC Upstate’s American Foundation of Suicide Prevention (AFSP) Out of the Darkness Walk.
It was the first time the university hosted the event, which was held Saturday, March 29. Over 120 participants registered to take part in a 1.3-mile walk around the Upstate campus in support of suicide prevention and ending the stigma around mental health issues.
Teams and individuals were able to raise over $2,000 for the AFSP, with this money going towards research and other methods to help aid those in crisis.
The walk began at the G.B. Hodge Center, looped around the campus, and ended at the John C. Stockwell Administration Building. Walkers were then able to visit tables of different organizations and get resources to help themselves and others.
People of all ages, 7 to 77, came out for the same mission: to support those struggling and end the stigma.
The morning was filled with heartwarming experiences from new relationships made, bonds formed, and support given.
The pre-walk ceremony began with thank yous and celebrations. An USC Upstate student, Lisa Pappas, who has experienced several tragedies, shared her story and offered a message of hope.
Members of USC Upstate and AFSP then came together for the Honor Bead Ceremony. Participants were able to pick out different colored beads, each with a representation (loss of a friend, overall support, loss of a parent, etc). The community then came together for a moment of silence and prayer for those honored.
Walk participant, Josh Gordan, called the walk an “incredible experience” and one that “left a lasting impact on me.”
“It was a powerful reminder of the importance of mental health awareness and the collective strength of a community coming together for a cause,” Gordon said. “Walking alongside others who have experienced similar struggles or have lost loved ones to suicide was deeply moving.”
“I participated because I believe in breaking the stigma around mental health and suicide. It’s crucial to create a space where people feel comfortable seeking help and sharing their stories,” he continued.
“The walk not only raised awareness but also provided an opportunity to honor those we’ve lost and offer support to those still fighting. It was a meaningful and emotional day, but one that left me feeling empowered and hopeful for change.”
While the event was hosted on campus, it also involved the Spartanburg community including groups such as Walt’s Waltz and Mental Health America. USC Upstate Community and Student Engagement and Upstate Kid’s Club also participated to share resources for attendees.
Planning for USC Upstate’s version of the walk began around October 2024 and required countless hours of meetings, logistics, and community. Counseling Services and the Library worked together to help foster the supportive atmosphere.
The university hopes to make the walk an annual event.
Find more photos on our Flickr album.