The Charles A. Frueauff Foundation has awarded Oglethorpe University $55,000 to support student mental health programs.

The specific proposal was to fund the launch of a new after-hours program called the Petrel After-Hours Support System (PASS) housed in the Counseling Center. More details on PASS will be announced when the program is ready to be rolled out to students.

“We are grateful that the Frueauff Foundation recognized and supported our commitment to student mental health,” said President Nick Ladany. “They have been strong supporters of Oglethorpe for many years, and their confidence in our ability to deliver on our promises to students is encouraging.”

The Frueauff Foundation has supported Oglethorpe since 1981, and this grant represents a 10 percent increase over the previous award.

“This generous grant directly impacts the health and wellness of students and addresses our strategic priorities here at Oglethorpe,” said Michelle Lyn, director of the Counseling Center. “I know our students will benefit greatly from the implementation of the after-hours system, and we will continue to look for innovative and creative ways to expand those services.”

The Charles A. Frueauff Foundation was founded in 1950 by the Last Will and Testament of Charles A. Frueauff, a successful New York attorney who gave his time and resources to many New York charitable organizations. Since 1950, the Foundation has awarded grants in excess of $164 million to more than 1,185 agencies and institutions. The foundation focuses on education, human services and health-related causes around the country and is dedicated to supporting those on the front lines, working to address the needs of their neighbors and communities.