STUDENT OUTREACH AND SUPPORT (SOS)
At Wichita State University, Student Outreach & Support (SOS) serves as the central hub for non-clinical case management, providing students referred
through the University CARE Team with individualized guidance, compassionate care,
and wraparound support. By enhancing the CARE Team’s mission, SOS strengthens campus
partnerships rooted in compassion and action, responding swiftly to students in distress
while building a community where well-being and safety are prioritized. As student mental health needs and basic well-being
concerns continue to rise nationwide, WSU is no exception. Yet through SOS, these
challenges are transformed into opportunities for connection, resilience, and student
success.
The non-clinical case management model ensures that students’ immediate needs are
addressed while preserving the integrity of WSU’s Counseling and Psychological Services
(CAPS). This approach allows CAPS to remain dedicated to sustained clinical treatment
rather than being overwhelmed as a crisis center. By seamlessly bridging academic,
personal, and community resources, SOS provides every Shocker with access to the holistic
support essential for both well-being and success.
Key Impact Highlights 2024-2025
- Case Management: SOS responded to 1,119 reports representing 983 unique students, with 67% engaging directly with a case manager. Concerns ranged from academic barriers to
acute distress, including 139 reports of suicidal ideation and 108 students experiencing unmet basic needs such as housing and food insecurity.
- Effective Triage and Support: SOS supported 93 students during or after hospitalization and coordinated care through direct partnerships
with hospitals, community crisis centers, and social service agencies.
- Partnerships for Student Success: By working hand-in-hand with faculty, Housing & Residence Life, academic departments,
and community partners, SOS fosters a university-wide culture of care where early
intervention prevents crises and builds pathways to recovery and resilience.
- Proactive Engagement: Exceeding outreach goals, SOS connected with over 2,500 students outside formal referrals through classroom presentations, events like Transit
101, and self-care programming during peak stress periods.
- Applied Learning & Staff Development: SOS integrated applied learning positions to expand student-facing services, while
staff advanced their expertise with NaBITA certifications in non-clinical suicide
assessment and case management interventions.
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