Featured Speakers: Margo Leitschuh and Whitney Shumway
Topic: Leveraging the Power of Community Coalitions
MSPN hosted its second quarterly Community Conversations About Suicide Prevention meeting in April 2025, welcoming community members, coalition leaders, and partners from across Missouri. The discussion focused on leveraging the power of community coalitions, aligning with Priority Two of the Missouri Suicide Prevention Plan—supporting community-led prevention, intervention, and postvention efforts.
Key Highlights Included:
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Updates from MSPN leadership, including the formation of a new Postvention Committee and workgroups on bylaws and membership.
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Information about the ongoing Suicide Prevention Coalition Academy and opportunities for future cohorts.
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Details about the upcoming 2025 Missouri Suicide Prevention Conference (July 17, Columbia, MO), with award nominations open through May 1.
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A presentation from Margo Leitschuh (Partners in Prevention) and Whitney Shumway (Compass Health/AFSP) on strengthening coalitions to expand local suicide prevention impact.
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Breakout sessions where participants shared current community efforts, needs, and ways MSPN can offer support.​
Helpful Links & Resources:
The meeting closed with a reminder that these conversations are meant to spark local action, foster collaboration, and sustain momentum across Missouri communities. The next Community Conversation will be held July 18, 2025, focusing on suicide prevention in schools.