On Thursday, Sept. 19, Walsh University hosted its second annual 22 Push-Ups for Veteran Suicide Awareness event, bringing together over 200 participants on the West Lawn near the David Center. Held in recognition of National Suicide Prevention Month, the event highlighted the statistic that 22 veterans take their own lives each day.

During the two-hour event, participants performed 22 push-ups every half hour to remember veteran suicides. Among them, Connor Frisby completed 57 push-ups while wearing a 25-pound tactical vest, earning him an autographed football provided by the Pro Football Hall of Fame. Over 45 students wore the vest and did push-ups to honor veterans and raise awareness about mental health challenges many veterans face.

The event also fostered camaraderie as students, faculty, staff, veterans, and active-duty service members enjoyed pizza and meaningful conversations. Participants had the chance to climb into a military vehicle to understand military conditions better.

Joshua Ruiz, Walsh University's Veteran Affairs Coordinator and a U.S. Marine Corps veteran led the event. Ruiz emphasized its importance: "The statistic that 22 veterans die by suicide every day is more than just a number—it's a tragedy that touches families, communities, and the future of our nation’s heroes. This event is a call to action for all of us to raise awareness and ensure no veteran feels they have to face their battles alone," Ruiz said.

The event also showcased Walsh University's commitment to supporting veterans. As a Top Ten Military Friendly® School and a Collegiate Purple Star campus, Walsh provides personalized educational programs and services for military members and their families.

With support from sponsors like SoL Harris/Day Architecture and dedication from the Walsh community, this event underscored the importance of addressing mental health challenges faced by veterans.

For veterans or service members in crisis, help is available through the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-TALK.