LSU’s ‘Planting Seeds of Hope’ Event Sparks Change and Conversations Around Mental Health

By Lisa Vo

February 12, 2025

The Pete Maravich Assembly Center was filled with inspiration and impactful discussions on February 12, as LSU hosted the second annual “Planting Seeds of Hope” event.

Moderated by former LSU football standout and ESPN personality Ryan Clark, the event aimed to normalize conversations around mental health and provide real-time resources for both students and the community.

Clark pointed out the importance of addressing mental health, especially for students and athletes who often focus heavily on physical health but often overlook their mental well-being.

Scene from the “Planting Seeds of Hope” event Feb. 12 at LSU's Pete Maravich Assembly Center
Scene from the “Planting Seeds of Hope” event Feb. 12 at LSU's Pete Maravich Assembly Center
Scene from the “Planting Seeds of Hope” event Feb. 12 at LSU's Pete Maravich Assembly Center
Scene from the “Planting Seeds of Hope” event Feb. 12 at LSU's Pete Maravich Assembly Center
Scene from the “Planting Seeds of Hope” event Feb. 12 at LSU's Pete Maravich Assembly Center
Scene from the “Planting Seeds of Hope” event Feb. 12 at LSU's Pete Maravich Assembly Center
Scene from the “Planting Seeds of Hope” event Feb. 12 at LSU's Pete Maravich Assembly Center
Scene from the “Planting Seeds of Hope” event Feb. 12 at LSU's Pete Maravich Assembly Center
Scene from the “Planting Seeds of Hope” event Feb. 12 at LSU's Pete Maravich Assembly Center
Scene from the “Planting Seeds of Hope” event Feb. 12 at LSU's Pete Maravich Assembly Center
Scene from the “Planting Seeds of Hope” event Feb. 12 at LSU's Pete Maravich Assembly Center
Scene from the “Planting Seeds of Hope” event Feb. 12 at LSU's Pete Maravich Assembly Center
Scene from the “Planting Seeds of Hope” event Feb. 12 at LSU's Pete Maravich Assembly Center

 

“We talk about training our bodies—why don’t we talk about training our minds?” he asked.

The theme of “Power of Hope” goes further than simply offering optimism.

“It’s about giving someone something to look forward to, giving them the opportunity to see that their current circumstances don’t have to be their permanent circumstances,” Clark said.

The event was organized in partnership with the Rain Will Bring Flowers Foundation, The Joe Burrow Foundation, The National L Club, and Our Lady of the Lake Health. It featured a panel of experts and advocates, including former LSU and current Los Angeles Chargers wide receiver DJ Chark, mental health advocate Emma Benoit, LSU psychology professor Dr. Ray Tucker, and Sherrard Crespo, VP of External Affairs at VIA LINK.

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Emma Benoit shared her personal struggles with mental health and recovery, emphasizing how powerful storytelling can be in breaking down stigmas. Her openness and vulnerability resonated deeply with the audience, reminding everyone of the importance of embracing difficult conversations and offering support to one another.

“When I share my story, I see the impact it has on others, and that’s what keeps me going,” she said.

Throughout the evening, one message stood out: No one has to struggle alone.

“We all got battles. The difference is, we don’t have to fight ‘em alone,” Clark noted.

The overwhelming response from students, faculty, and community members reflected a growing movement toward prioritizing mental well-being. LSU Senior Associate Athletic Director Shelly Mullenix emphasized that the event was more than just about having difficult conversations.

“This event isn’t just about awareness—it’s about creating lasting change.”

On LSU's campus, students and others needing mental health care can find help here.

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