Rowan University students hold vigil to honor 3 students who committed suicide this semester

Around 100 people attended a vigil Friday night organized by students at Rowan University following a third student's suicide this semester.

News 12 Staff

Dec 9, 2019, 12:20 PM

Updated 1,600 days ago

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Around 100 people attended a vigil Friday night organized by students at Rowan University following a third student's suicide this semester.
According to Rowan University President Ali Houshmand, the most recent suicide involved a student who jumped to his death from a parking garage the day after Thanksgiving.
 
The suicides have sparked outrage on social media, with users identifying themselves as alumni and current students criticizing the school for not doing more to help students with mental health problems.
Student Jasmine Taylor says she thinks the school could make major changes.
"Moving forward, instead of having new buildings built, I think we need more counselors on campus,” says Taylor. “And I think there needs to not be a waitlist for counselors. We just actually need more help."
Houshmand says the university is addressing the issue, saying the university has tripled the number of counselors at the campus over the past six years and is looking to hire three more in 2020.
The university held a discussion Monday at 7 p.m. at the Student Center on how the university can improve its mental health assistance.
Rowan University says anyone who needs help or to talk can go to the school's wellness center or call 856-256-4333. Counselors can be reached around the clock at 856-256-4922.
If you or someone you know needs to talk, you can call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 800-273-TALK.


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