Greenhill has introduced a new Mental Health Board in the Upper School to promote mental health awareness and provide student-led support on campus. The board replaces the former Hope Squad and revives aspects of the previously active Hornet Mental Health Club. 

“We are hoping to create mental health initiatives around campus,” founder of the board senior Nora Ahearn said. “Big or small, we just want to spread awareness.” 

In past years, Hope Squad, a national suicide prevention program, served as the primary student-driven mental health support group on campus. Members were nominated by peers and received suicide prevention training to recognize warning signs and connect struggling peers with resources. 

After the program lost funding, Ahearn and Upper School Counselor Amanda Frederick created a replacement. They combined the structure of the Hornet Mental Health Club with the resources of Hope Squad. 

The new board is open to all Upper School students to apply. Faculty advisors, along with Frederick, will review applications and select grade representatives. 

To achieve the goal of raising mental health awareness on campus, the board plans to make educational posters, have information sessions, and host special events. 

“I hope that the board can create moments of joy for students,” Ahearn said. 

Frederick also emphasized the importance of balance for Upper School students under pressure.   

“With the stress of high school going on, we want students to remember pockets of light in their day,” Frederick said.