University of Michigan and Coalition for Student Wellbeing Partner to Raise Awareness for Life-Saving Mental Health Resources
The University of Michigan has long stood at the forefront of student wellbeing in higher education — and their latest commitment makes that leadership visible in the hands of every student on campus.
Beginning in the Fall of 2026, the University of Michigan will be printing new MCards featuring mental health crisis resources, including the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline. The change came after the Coalition reached out to President Domenico Grasso, a member of the Coalition’s advisory board, about adding 988 to student IDs as part of our national advocacy campaign.
A Simple Step With a Powerful Message
For President Grasso, the decision was rooted in a broader institutional philosophy — that supporting student mental health means removing every possible barrier between a student in crisis and the help they need. Having 988 physically present on a student ID ensures that a lifesaving resource is never more than a reach away.
President Grasso reflected on the decision:
“At the University of Michigan, student wellbeing is foundational to academic success and a thriving campus community. Adding 988 to student IDs was a simple but meaningful step to ensure that every student has immediate access to support in moments that matter most. It reflects our commitment to reducing barriers, normalizing help-seeking, and prioritizing mental health.”
From the Coalition for Student Wellbeing
When the Coalition for Student Wellbeing launched its national 988 advocacy campaign, the goal was always to meet institutional leaders where they are — to make the case that small, visible changes can have an outsized impact on student lives. As a member of the Coalition’s advisory board, Grasso has brought both strategic guidance and genuine personal investment to the work of advancing student wellbeing at a national level. His willingness to champion this initiative at one of the country’s largest and most prominent universities speaks to the kind of leadership the Coalition hopes to inspire across higher education.
“One of the most joyful surprises throughout this journey leading the Coalition for Student Wellbeing has been witnessing the incredible buy-in of senior leaders in higher education like President Domenico Grasso. Not only has President Grasso been an indispensable advisor to the Coalition, but his rapid collaboration and dedicated commitment to student wellbeing — as demonstrated by the adoption of this initiative — is deeply inspiring and reaffirms our belief that when student advocates and institutional leaders work together, meaningful change follows.” said Carson Domey, Executive Director of the Coalition for Student Wellbeing.
A Message to Campus Leaders
President Grasso’s message to his colleagues across higher education is direct:
“I would encourage my colleagues across higher education to consider how small, visible actions like this can send a powerful message: that we care, and that help is always within reach.”
The University of Michigan’s commitment is a testament to just how achievable and impactful this change really is.
Want to bring 988 on student IDs to your campus? The Coalition for Student Wellbeing has a free advocacy toolkit to help you get started. Need help figuring out where to start? Reach out to advocacy@c4sw.org.