Counseling team helps create weekly support group for BIPOC students

Two graduate students in Augusta University’s College of Education counselor education program are coordinating a new peer-led community designed to provide support to Black, Indigenous and students of color.

Knowing the profound impact of racial injustice and COVID-19 on Black and brown communities, Student Counseling and Psychological Services is extending additional support to AU’s Black and brown students.

Our Voices Matter is a peer-led community designed to give students of color a safe space to connect and share experiences. The virtual community was created and co-facilitated by counselor education graduate students Marquietta Green and Randy LaMons. They are working in partnership with Traci Weston, a licensed counselor from SCAPS.

Meetings are from 4-5 p.m. Thursdays on Microsoft Teams. All Black and brown students are welcome to attend any week.

Participants maintain the following rights:

You have the right to respect.
You have the right to privacy. We won’t talk about each other’s stories outside of the virtual community.
You have the right to your opinion. Everyone has a place to speak and be heard, with understanding, not judgment.

Our Voices Matter is not intended to be a substitute for therapy. These conversations might bring up intense thoughts and emotions. If you need further support, the SCAPS team of mental health professionals is available from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday-Friday to help students experiencing crises or emergencies.

Please call 706-737-1471, or visit SCAPS offices on the Summerville or Health Sciences campuses. After hours, please call the 24/7 Georgia Crisis & Access Line at 800-715-4225.

Learn more about Student Counseling and Psychological Services.