New Jersey | April 24, 2025
On a warm Thursday evening in South Orange, New Jersey, the halls of Seton Hall University transformed into something more than just a college campus—they became a safe space for healing, connection, and brotherhood. Hosted by a coalition of student organizations and university partners, the Men’s Mental Health Gala brought together students, staff, and community leaders to address a topic too often left in the shadows: the emotional and mental health struggles of men, especially young men navigating campus life.
The Ever Forward Club was honored to be a part of this powerful evening, with our founder, Ashanti Branch, delivering the keynote and facilitating a mask-making experience that left a lasting imprint on all who participated.
Creating a Space for Truth, One Mask at a Time
Ashanti began the evening not with a lecture, but with a question—a question that has sparked transformation in thousands of lives around the world: What are you letting the world see? And what are you holding back? Through the #MillionMaskMovement, students were invited to take part in an activity that asked them to reflect deeply on the "masks" they wear in everyday life.
As students drew their masks—writing down three words for what they show on the outside and three for what they hide on the inside—an emotional silence settled over the room. For many, this was the first time they’d paused to consider the emotional weight they carry in silence. Others saw their peers open up and realized they weren’t alone in feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or unseen.
“This activity changed the energy in the room,” one student shared. “I came in thinking this was just another school event. But by the end, I felt like I was part of something real.”
A Day of Presence, Partnership, and Purpose
Before the gala, Ashanti spent the morning tabling on campus with student leaders from various organizations. These conversations, often brief but meaningful, became windows into the emotional lives of the young men on campus. Students stopped by, curious about the masks, and left with something more—an invitation to be real, and to know they’re not alone.
The evening unfolded with heart and hospitality. From the warm welcome and shared meal to the interactive keynote and community dialogue, the event’s design reflected care at every step:
5:30 PM – Doors opened for mingling and connection
6:00 PM – A buffet dinner was served, accompanied by prayer and grounding remarks
6:30 PM – Ashanti took the stage, leading participants through a journey of vulnerability and empowerment
7:30 PM – Door prizes, laughter, and group photos created joyful closure
8:15 PM – A powerful send-off left students feeling inspired, seen, and supported
Moving Forward, Together
The Men's Mental Health Gala at Seton Hall wasn't just an event—it was a movement moment. It offered a blueprint for how universities can build community, honor emotional truth, and create space for men to take off the armor they wear every day.
We are deeply grateful to the students, staff, and sponsors who brought this night to life. In every mask drawn, every story shared, and every handshake exchanged, we saw the kind of community that Ever Forward dreams of creating everywhere we go.
To the young men of Seton Hall: Your courage is the reason we do this work. Keep showing up. Keep speaking truth. And keep building spaces where you—and those around you—can thrive.