Building Student Leader Skills & Connections
Each academic year, 15 high school Juniors and Seniors with varied lived experiences across Wisconsin will be part of a cohort and engage in monthly virtual meetings to expand their knowledge, skills, and network. The cohort model will provide a space where student leaders can share their perspectives and recommendations to influence the work of OCMH while building peer connections. To celebrate their learning, Youth Mental Health Champions will present posters to state leaders during an in-person completion ceremony in May.
A Junior or Senior from each CESA will be selected to ensure geographic diversity of Youth Mental Wellness Champions. CESA stands for Cooperative Educational Service Agency. There are 12 CESAs in the state of Wisconsin.
Champions will deepen their knowledge and understanding of mental health issues. Monthly meetings will explore topics such as the history of mental health, defining wellness, understanding school mental health, using data for change, storytelling, and advocacy strategies.
2025-26 Youth Mental Wellness Champion Cohort
Youth Mental Wellness Champions in the 2025-26 cohort represent a mix of students with various identities, lived experiences, and geographic location. Below are the cities where the Champions of this cohort reside.
CESA 1: Milwaukee; Milwaukee
CESA 2: McFarland
CESA 3: Mineral Point
CESA 4: Melrose
CESA 5: Marshfield
CESA 6: Menasha
CESA 7: Pulaski
CESA 8: Laona
CESA 9: Marathon; Wausau
CESA 10: Chippewa Falls
CESA 11: Hudson; St. Croix Falls
CESA 12: Superior
Stay updated on the work of the Youth Mental Health Champions by subscribing to the OCMH monthly network newsletter.
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