Coffeyville, KS — Coffeyville Community College (CCC) continues to prioritize student well-being and mental health awareness through the combined efforts of its NAMI on Campus organization and the annual Conner Taylor Suicide Awareness Baseball Game.
Held on April 11th at Walter Johnson Field, the event brought together student-athletes, campus organizations, and the community to honor the life and legacy of Conner Taylor, a member of the 2016 CCC Red Ravens baseball team.
The CCC Red Ravens faced Highland Community College in a doubleheader, earning two wins on the day. The Red Ravens secured a 6–4 victory in game one and followed with a dominant 12–2 win in game two. While the results highlighted a strong performance on the field, the event’s greater purpose centered on raising awareness for mental health and suicide prevention.
Known for his vibrant personality, strong academic performance, and compassionate spirit, Conner Taylor left a lasting impression on teammates, classmates, and faculty. His legacy continues to inspire efforts focused on mental health awareness and suicide prevention, both on and off the field.
In conjunction with the event, CCC’s NAMI on Campus organization played an active role in supporting the game and its message. Student members attended to show support for their peers and the baseball team while also promoting awareness by handing out flyers that shared information about the Change4Conner Foundation, Conner’s story, and available mental health resources.
With guidance from Marcy Taylor and in collaboration with CCC Mental Health Counselor Megan Brown, CCC became the first community college in Kansas to establish a NAMI on Campus chapter. These student-led organizations are dedicated to promoting mental health awareness, advocating for resources, and creating a supportive environment through events, outreach, and open conversations.
“Mental health is something that impacts every student in some way, whether personally or through someone they care about,” said Megan Brown, CCC Mental Health Counselor. “Having a group like NAMI on Campus gives students a space to connect, support one another, and help reduce the stigma that too often surrounds these conversations. I am incredibly thankful to Marcy Taylor for her continued support and dedication to our students and this mission. I’m also so proud of our NAMI students for their willingness to step up, get involved, and make a difference on campus. It means a lot to be part of something that not only supports students but empowers them to support each other.”
The NAMI on Campus initiative reflects the mission of the Change4Conner Foundation, founded by Marcy Taylor, Mike Taylor, and their son Ryan. The foundation honors Conner’s life by supporting mental health education, suicide prevention efforts, and student scholarships, ensuring his legacy continues to positively impact others.
Each year, the CCC Baseball team also presents the Conner Taylor Memorial Award to a sophomore player who exemplifies the same qualities Conner was known for—dedication, academic excellence, and compassion for others. This year’s recipient, Ethan Foley, was recognized for embodying those values both on and off the field. The award includes a scholarship from the Change4Conner Foundation, further supporting student-athletes in their academic and personal journeys.
Together, events like the Conner Taylor Suicide Awareness Game and initiatives like NAMI on Campus demonstrate CCC’s commitment to fostering a campus culture that values connection, awareness, and support. By encouraging open dialogue and providing resources, the College aims to ensure that students know they are not alone.