Two students talking outside.

CAPS Ambassadors

The CAPS Ambassadors Program at Purdue University is dedicated to championing mental health awareness and fostering a culture of holistic well-being on campus. Our mission is to empower individuals to prioritize their mental health journey. Through peer support, education, and outreach initiatives, we strive to destigmatize mental health challenges and promote inclusivity, understanding, and self-discovery.

 

CAPS Ambassadors Executive Board

Sunishka Deshpande

Sunishka Deshpande

President | Junior, Honors Biomedical Engineering

Why does mental health matter to you?

Mental health matters to me because as a future physician, there is no health without mental health. Many college students can struggle with mental health due to the stresses of academic pressure, change, growth, and self-discovery. Prioritizing mental wellness can help change someone’s life for the better.

Challini Dua

Challini Dua

Vice President | Junior, Psychology

Why does mental health matter to you?

Facing my own mental health struggles as a young girl drove me to break the stigma in my family and community. This ignited my passion for advocacy, inspiring me to not only help others but also champion the change I want to see.

Adam Szolwinski

Adam Szolwinski

Treasurer | Junior, Cybersecurity & Network Engineering

Why does mental health matter to you?

As someone who has experienced the impact of mental health challenges on both myself and my loved ones, I understand how difficult they can be to overcome. This is why I’m passionate about supporting others on their mental health journeys, helping them find the strength and resources they need to heal and thrive.

Natalie Cantieri

Natalie Cantieri

Secretary | Senior, Brain and Behavioral Sciences

Why does mental health matter to you?

Mental health is incredibly important to me because I am passionate about helping students prioritize their mental well-being. During my time at Purdue, I have personally experienced how easy it is to neglect self-care as school demands increase. This can be a challenging cycle to break, as many of us have been doing this for most of our lives. Pursuing a major in the field of mental health has given me a scientific understanding of why our mental health matters. This knowledge motivates me to prioritize my well-being, and I am eager to help others do the same. After graduating this spring, I hope to become a school psychologist to support children and serve as a mental health resource from a young age. I am passionate about mental health and excited to share this passion with the Purdue community as a CAPS ambassador. I look forward to learning more and making a positive impact on the mental health of those around me.

Saniya Savita

Saniya Savita

At-Large Member | Senior, Nutrition & Dietetics

Why does mental health matter to you?

Mental health matters to me because, as an international student at Purdue, I've faced challenges being far from home, adapting to a new culture, and managing an independent lifestyle with the academic pressures. My major in Nutrition and Dietetics is deeply connected to counseling, emphasizing the psychological aspects of eating habits and lifestyle choices. I am dedicated to promoting mental health awareness because I believe it is essential for students to thrive in their university journey and build a strong foundation for their futures.

Anshu Voruganti

Anshu Voruganti

At-Large Member | Senior, Brain and Behavioral Sciences

Why does mental health matter to you?

Mental Health matters to me since it is the basis of self-reliance, positivity, and empathy. Through personal experiences and those of my loved ones, I've witnessed the impact of neglecting mental well-being. My goal is to ensure everyone is aware of the resources available to help them live their happiest lives and build stronger relationships.