Hope in every step: ASU students host fourth annual “Out of the Darkness Campus Walk”

On college campuses, it is crucial to make sure everyone has a safe space. At the annual Out of the Darkness Campus Walk, Sun Devils and community members gathered to prevent suicide, honor those who have died by suicide, and show support for those struggling with suicidal ideations. 

The student-driven effort was hosted on March 22, 2025, on Arizona State University’s Tempe campus. In partnership with the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention, Devils 4 Devils, and Undergraduate Student Government Tempe, led the fourth campus walk. Clubs and organizations gathered on the Student Services Lawn to share their missions with attendees and make impactful connections. 

Kelsey Wiseman, a community volunteer running the check-in table, explained the event's positive effects. 

“It is about raising both awareness and funds for suicide prevention efforts,” Wiseman said. “We have different counseling tables set up to provide resources to those who are struggling or in need of help.” 

Wiseman touched on the need for such events on college campuses, where students are especially vulnerable. 

“College students arguably have some of the most struggles with mental health,” Wiseman said. “When you are trying to study and balance so many other responsibilities on top of that, it becomes a battle you can’t fight on your own. Events like this are important on college campuses to show students they aren’t alone.”

Stephanie Deleon, Miss Chandler 2025, was one of many ASU alumni in attendance. As a speaker at the event, she shared her personal connection to suicide prevention efforts. 

“My cousin died of suicide when he was 16 years old,” Deleon said. “Coming from a traditional Asian-American family, we really shied away from conversations about mental wellness.” 

Deleon has become a champion of mental health. Her social impact initiative, For a Brighter Day, centers around depression and suicide prevention. 

“I think that starting these conversations as young as possible is critical,” Deleon said. “That way, people can get the resources they need when they need them.” 

Deleon emphasized the importance of fostering safe spaces on campus for anyone who might be struggling. The Out of the Darkness Campus Walk is one of many events geared toward improving mental health awareness at universities, for students who may feel isolated. 

“ASU offers a slew of resources that are so helpful for people affected by suicide,” Deleon said. “It is great that we can gather together today and embrace each other during such tough times.”