Claudia Alonzo from APSU Honored for Outstanding Mental Health Advocacy by State Organization – ClarksvilleNow.com

Claudia Alonzo has always been passionate about health and well-being. From her years in radiologic science to her role as the director of Community Care and Standards at Austin Peay State University, she has devoted her career to supporting others. Recently, she received the Mid-Cumberland Regional Award from the Tennessee Suicide Prevention Network (TSPN) for her work in mental health advocacy, a recognition she never expected.

The award was presented during TSPN’s statewide conference, coinciding with Suicide Prevention Awareness Month, highlighting important contributions to this critical cause.

“Winning the TSPN Mid-Cumberland Regional Award shows our commitment at APSU to the health of our students and community,” Alonzo shared. She emphasized that suicide prevention takes teamwork and compassion. “I am humbled to work with so many dedicated individuals.”

To foster a supportive environment, Alonzo leads free QPR (Question, Persuade, Refer) Gatekeeper Training sessions. She aims to equip students, faculty, and staff with the skills to recognize signs of suicide and respond effectively, similar to CPR. “Gatekeepers are trained to spot behavioral cues and ask the right questions to help those in crisis,” she explained.

The sessions, lasting about an hour, attract a passionate audience, particularly students. Many participants see the value in mental health education. “Students are aware of mental health issues, and the stigma around discussing them has decreased,” Alonzo noted. Her trainings have even made their way into APSU’s annual Peayple in the Community – Day of Service, where numerous volunteers have been certified.

Dr. Lindsey Gilmore, Alonzo’s supervisor and APSU’s associate vice president for campus engagement, praised the significant impact of these training sessions. “Claudia’s work in teaching QPR is essential for creating a safe campus environment,” she said. Gilmore expressed her pride in collaborating with someone who initiates difficult conversations that can save lives.

Alonzo has plans to collaborate with Kaitie McKinney, APSU’s community care and prevention coordinator, on outreach events while continuing to offer QPR training. “In the Division of Student Affairs, our goal is to meet people where they are,” Alonzo asserted. “Even if just one person shows up, they can make a big impact.”

Research shows that community engagement in mental health initiatives significantly reduces stigma and encourages help-seeking behavior. A recent study found that universities with active mental health programs see a 25% increase in students reaching out for support. By creating open dialogues and offering training, Alonzo is not just making a difference on campus—she’s part of a larger movement toward mental health awareness across education institutions.

For more information on mental health resources, visit the National Alliance on Mental Illness website, which provides valuable insights and support for individuals facing challenges.

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