SPRINGFIELD, Mass. (10/28/2026): American International College (AIC) is proud to announce the launch of The Green Bandana Project. The groundbreaking peer-to-peer support program empowers high school and college students to become trusted mental health allies within their school communities. Program leaders say the initiative aims to build cultures of support, ultimately reducing the stigma surrounding mental health and preventing suicide.
Suicide remains the second leading cause of death among individuals ages 10 to 24, highlighting the urgent need for proactive suicide prevention efforts that equip high school and college students with the tools, resources, and peer support needed during their formative years.
Now active in more than 90 schools across the United States, The Green Bandana Project trains students to recognize the warning signs of suicidal ideation and crisis among their peers. Participants learn to provide support, connect classmates with essential resources, and create a safe space for open conversations about mental health. Students who complete the training wear a signature green bandana on their backpacks or persons, signaling their availability as trained and knowledgeable mental health advocates.
“The Green Bandana Project is just one way for students to learn how to support their peers, engage with suicide prevention and mental health advocacy, and find their voices in campus communities,” said Jennifer Carranza, the program’s coordinator.
“American International College is committed to expanding awareness of available mental health resources both on campus and in our community, as well as empowering students to support one another,” said Kaelly Ryan, PA-C, Executive Director of Health Services and Student Wellness.
“Students who complete the training and wear a green bandana on their backpacks will signify that they are approachable and able to connect peers with appropriate campus and community resources using a Green Bandana Project resource card. Through education, training, and visible peer support, we hope to normalize conversations about mental health, encourage students to seek help when needed, and let them know they are not alone.”
American International College encourages all students to participate and become part of this uplifting support network.
For more information about The Green Bandana Project, please visit thegreenbandanaproject.org or reach out to Program Coordinator Jennifer Carranza thegreenbandanaproject@save.org or 952-491-4408.
For more information about American International College, reach out to Public Relations and Communications Manager Denise Vozella at denise.vozella@aic.edu, 413-205-3231 (office) or 413-896-2120 (cell).
About SAVE
Founded in 1989, SAVE (Suicide Awareness Voices of Education) is a national nonprofit dedicated to preventing suicide through education and training, advocacy, lethal means safety and support for people affected by suicide. SAVE works to increase awareness, reduce stigma and equip individuals and communities with the knowledge and resources to help prevent suicide. Learn more at save.org.
About American International College
Founded in 1885, American International College (AIC) is a private, co-educational, doctoral-granting institution located in Springfield, Massachusetts, comprising the School of Business, Arts, and Sciences, the School of Health Sciences, and the School of Education. AIC supports and advances education, diversity, and opportunity for its students and the community.
MEDIA CONTACT
Heidi Raschke | Director of Communications & Public Relations, SAVE | hraschke@save.org | 651-239-0490