I’m normally not a proponent of contests within the visual arts professions, as they are often structured and/or carried out in a manner that devalues, and sometimes even degrades, the industry and its participants. Nevertheless, when I was recently contacted by a representative from The Jed Foundation and asked if I would share some information about their upcoming video competition, I gladly checked it out, particularly since I heartily support The Jed Foundation’s mission.

Although I’m not familiar with the nuances of the video industry, this event looks worthwhile to me, so I’m pleased to share it here…

For starters, they’ve dubbed it an “award” (vs. contest or competition), The Jerry Greenspan Student Voice of Mental Health Award.

The event is for “college students who have had mental health issues”, and asks them to “create a video on their experiences with mental health issues and how they are working to raise awareness and encourage their peers on the issue”. The creator of the winning video receives the award, which includes a $2,000 scholarship, a trip to NYC to our annual gala in June 2009, recognition through The Jed Foundation’s website and events and possibly appearing on MTVU.

The Jed Foundation which works nationally to reduce the rate of suicide and the prevalence of emotional distress among college and university students.jedfoundation.org

Additional information about The Jerry Greenspan Student Voice of Mental Health Award is available on the foundation’s website: http://jedfoundation.org/programs/student-voice-of-mental-health-award.

Good luck to all who participate!