MIAD student support system receives national SMILE Award

Choose Mental Health, the national voice for children’s mental health, named the Milwaukee Institute of Art & Design (MIAD) the 2024 SMILE Award–Organization Winner for the college’s commitment to promoting mental health and well-being among its students.

MIAD is being honored for its “comprehensive support system that addresses the unique mental, physical and emotional challenges faced by its student body” and “the leadership from MIAD staff including Mónica Lloyd, Dean of Students; Holly Vanderbusch, Associate Dean of Students; and rhi anderson-martinez, Executive Director of Equity + Inclusion.”

“Each member of the Student Support Services Team truly is so dedicated to the work that they all do with students and for MIAD,” says Lloyd. “They are constantly going above and beyond for each and every student they assist. Their genuine care and compassion for students is seen daily. I am so grateful for the collaboration Student Support Services, Academic Advising, Housing and the Equity + Inclusion Center have with each other and consistently keeping students in the forefront. All of these individuals deserve this recognition.”

“We’re proud to honor these outstanding champions of youth mental health. This year’s winners have made a profound impact through their advocacy and unwavering commitment to supporting young people as they navigate mental health challenges,” says Dan Pontius, President of Choose Mental Health in a release about the awards. “Their efforts not only inspire us but remind us of the urgent need to continue investing in and expanding mental health resources across the country.”

MIAD’s Student Services staff and support services and spaces to help students grow their creative identity, celebrate wins and navigate mental, physical, psychological, sensory and academic challenges they experience as a valued member of the MIAD college community.

Additionally, MIAD’s Equity + Inclusion Center and staff support mental health and growth in partnership with Student Services to holistically champion unique mental wellness initiatives for MIAD students.

These services and support staff are woven into the fabric of MIAD’s culture and community through myriad partnerships, events and activities and are one of the ways the college community lives its values on a daily basis.

Learn more about Choose Mental Health and explore MIAD’s Student Support and Wellness Services and the Equity + Inclusion Center.