Hit recording artist and Graduate School of Education (GSE) alumna Meredith O’Connor continues to use her platform for good, recently speaking on the intersection of education policy, mental health, and the power of celebrity at the Publicis headquarters in New York on Oct. 9, 2024.
Since stepping into the spotlight in 2013, O’Connor has been a prominent mental health and anti-bullying advocate within the music world and beyond. This position stems from her own experiences of being diagnosed with ADHD and OCD, as well as being a victim of childhood bullying. Her first hit song, “The Game,” and many songs to follow have become internationally known as anti-bullying anthems, with “The Game” specifically written to show fans that things will get better. Additionally, O’Connor partnered with the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) to launch the international campaign “You Are Not Alone.” Named after another hit song, this campaign features celebrities from all over the world to raise funds and awareness for mental illness treatment.
O’Connor earned a master’s degree in mental health counseling from Fordham’s Graduate School of Education. Speaking of her as a student, Eric Chen, Ph.D., noted, “Meredith stood out for her resilience, creativity, and unwavering commitment to social justice advocacy for neurodivergent and marginalized communities. Her personal journey of embracing what makes her ‘different’ – a theme that lies at the heart of her work in the arts and mental health advocacy – reflects her evolving professional goals and dedication.”
After graduation, O’Connor launched the Center for Mental Health Services of Manhattan, offering counseling and resources to families across New York City’s boroughs. The center works closely with the Department of Education, supporting children, adolescents, and teens with conditions such as neurodevelopmental disorders, OCD and anxiety spectrum disorders, and chronic health conditions.
At the Oct. 9 panel hosted by Publicis and Hollywood & Mind, O’Connor joined other leaders to explore how celebrity platforms can influence mental health advocacy and education policy. Recognized as a TEDx speaker and a mental health trailblazer, O’Connor’s influence has garnered recognition from members of Congress, the Recording Academy, and more. As shared in Forbes, her pioneering work has inspired other celebrities to use their platforms for mental health advocacy. Her collaboration with Jennifer Frommer of Columbia Records, first announced at the Grammy Museum, has also led to the integration of award-winning mental health curricula in New York City schools, beginning in 2025.
Through her music, advocacy, and education, Meredith O’Connor continues to demonstrate the transformative power of celebrity in driving meaningful change.
This content was provided by Leah McKirgan.
