Fred Thomas Middle launches Morgan’s Message Club

Fred Thomas Middle School recently held the inaugural meeting of its Morgan’s Message Club, marking an important step in expanding mental health awareness and student advocacy within the school community.

With Fred Thomas educator Casey VanDemark serving as advisor, eighth-graders Casey Carr and Zoe May started the club because they were inspired to bring the mission of Morgan’s Message to their peers.

Morgan Rodgers was a former Duke University lacrosse student-athlete who died tragically in July 2019 after battling mental health issues. Although Morgan’s life was cut short, her legacy of unconditional love remains. Morgan’s Message was created by her family and former teammates with the mission to eliminate the stigma surrounding mental health, normalize conversations about mental health and ensure that mental health is treated equally with physical health for all student-athletes.

The first meeting introduced students to the goals and purpose of the organization, encouraging open conversation about mental health and well-being. The group also welcomed Naisae Ngido, a senior from Cape Henlopen High School and active member of the CHHS Morgan’s Message chapter, who shared her experiences, insights and advice on building a supportive community where students feel seen, heard and valued.