Mental Health Association of New Jersey Honors Uwill

MHANJ recognizes mental health and wellness leader Uwill at Annual Evening of Excellence that brings together mental health advocates and experts from across the state  

The Mental Health Association in New Jersey (MHANJ) today announced mental health and wellness solution Uwill as an honoree for its 24th Annual Evening of Excellence. MHANJ recognizes Uwill for its outstanding leadership in revolutionizing the mental health support landscape, particularly in addressing the mental health needs of college students. The event will take place on Wednesday, November 13, 2024, at the Park Savoy Estate in Florham Park.  

“Uwill’s innovative use of technology to deliver flexible, accessible mental health care has made great strides,” said Carolyn Beauchamp, President and CEO of MHANJ. “Their ability to swiftly meet the needs of diverse populations, especially college students, sets them apart as leaders in the field. We are proud to honor their contributions to advancing mental health care in New Jersey and beyond.”

In May 2023, New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy and Secretary of Higher Education Brian K. Bridges Ph.D., announced a first-in-the-nation partnership with Uwill to support all students enrolled at 45 participating New Jersey colleges. The partnership provides students with free teletherapy and crisis support 24/7/365. In May 2024, the partnership was extended until April 2026. 

According to data from Uwill and the Office of the Secretary of Higher Education, as of this September, more than 13,000 students are registered on the platform and together have scheduled more than 49,000 sessions with its diverse network of licensed mental health providers. Additionally, 61% of students who registered on Uwill’s platform had not previously sought counseling at their institutions, and 79% of institution staff acknowledged that the partnership has enhanced their ability to provide after-hours mental health support.

Michael London, founder of Uwill, created the platform driven by his expertise in higher education and his passion for mental health advocacy, inspired by personal experience.

“Mental health is one of the greatest challenges facing educators and employers today, with far-reaching implications for not just college access and completion, but for the health and well-being of families and communities,” said London. “I wanted to use my knowledge of higher education technology to help students facing mental health challenges. We are honored to receive this recognition and look forward to continuing to work with New Jersey education leaders, advocates, and community-based organizations to ensure every New Jerseyan has the care and support they deserve.” 

The Mental Health Association in New Jersey’s 24th Annual Evening of Excellence is a crucial fundraiser for the organization. Proceeds from the event will support its efforts to increase access to advocacy and services for people living with behavioral health conditions. The MHANJ is grateful to sponsors, including: at the Gold/Wellness and Recovery Level — RWJBarnabas Health; at the Silver/Anti-stigma Ambassador Level – Horizon Blue Cross Blue Shield of New Jersey, Inserra Supermarkets, Inc., Janine and Dan Kane, Otsuka, United Healthcare and Uwill; and at the Bronze/Education and Resilience Level – Bristol Myers Squibb, Citizens Bank, Community Access Unlimited, Delta Dental, Steven E. Geltzeiler, Legacy Treatment Services, Lexpath and MikeWorldWide (MWW). 

The Mental Health Association in New Jersey is a statewide non-profit organization whose mission is to strive for children and adults to achieve victory over mental illness and substance use disorders through advocacy, education, training and services. For more information visit https://www.mhanj.org/.

Visit mhanj.org to purchase tickets to the MHANJ’s 24th Evening of Excellence, explore sponsorship or place a congratulatory ad in the electronic ad journal.