George Orley Student Advocate Award
Nominate a college student who is working to improve mental health on campus.
Nominate a college student who is working to improve mental health on campus.
The George Orley Student Mental Health Advocate Award recognizes college students for outstanding leadership and commitment to campus mental health.
Student advocates create healthier campus communities throughout the U.S. by raising awareness about mental health conditions, the need for outreach programs and services, and the importance of eliminating the stigma surrounding these conditions. Each year, we recognize these exceptional individuals for their passion and commitment to improving the lives of their fellow college students. Recipients are honored at the annual Mental Health on College Campuses Conference luncheon in the spring.
Know a deserving college student advocating for better mental well-being on your campus? Nominate them for a George Orley Student Mental Health Advocate Award.
The Orley Award is open to college students at any level or learning institution. Awardees help to create a healthier campus community that fosters student success in one or more of the following ways:
This award is named in honor of the memory of George Orley, who sadly lost his battle with depression in 2013, just before his junior year at the University of Michigan. It’s made possible through the generous support of his parents, Randy and Diane Orley of Bloomfield Hills, Michigan, along with his siblings, Amanda and Sam.
Two outstanding student advocates were recognized at the 2025 Mental Health on College Campuses Conference. Learn more about their inspiring work.
2024 Awardees: Jacquelyn Wrubel, University of Michigan, and Brianna Baker, Columbia University
2023 Awardees: Meghna Singh, University of Michigan, and Elijah Heslop, Butler University
2021 Awardees: Sara Abelson, University of Michigan, and Michael Sczechowski, University of Delaware
2020 Awardees: Hannah Connors, University of Michigan, and Haley DeGreve, Augustana College