Men in New Directions

Redefining strength through resilience, clarity, and community.

Who We Are

Students running together

Men in New Directions (MIND MSU) is a student-led organization at Michigan State University dedicated to transforming the culture of men's mental health. We provide a supportive, substance-free community where Spartans can discover what true strength means: not silence or toughness, but clarity of mind, emotional intelligence, and resilience.

Our club redefines masculinity by promoting wellness, accountability, and purpose-driven living. We believe every student has the capacity to grow stronger when supported by community.

While our primary focus is men's mental health, we welcome all Spartans who share our mission of living with clarity, resilience, and intention.

Our Mission

Destigmatize Mental Health

Creating a culture of openness and support around mental health struggles.

Promote Wellness

Encouraging healthy coping mechanisms instead of harmful habits or substances.

Develop Resilience

Building strength through consistent fitness, mindset training, and peer mentorship.

Build Community

Creating connections rooted in Spartan values: strength, clarity, and service.

Why We Exist

Too often, men are told to hide their struggles, suppress emotions, or turn to substances when life feels overwhelming. This culture breeds isolation, stress, and disconnection.

MIND MSU is the alternative.

Speak Honestly

About challenges without stigma

Strengthen Yourself

Through movement and discipline

Connect with Peers

Who believe in accountability and wellness

Our Four Pillars of Strength

Wellness & Fitness

  • Group workouts: weightlifting, running, yoga
  • Fitness for discipline and mental clarity
  • Balance, not burnout

Mental Health

  • Open forums on stress and identity
  • Guest speakers from MSU faculty
  • Vulnerability without judgment

Accountability

  • Peer-led goal-setting groups
  • Wellness challenges
  • Recognition for commitment

Community

  • Volunteer projects
  • Campus partnerships
  • East Lansing outreach

What We Do

Monthly Events

Community-building activities like 5K runs, basketball tournaments, and other fitness challenges that bring Spartans together.

Various dates throughout the semester

Wellness Challenges

Month-long challenges that strengthen both discipline and community spirit. Winners are celebrated for their commitment to wellness and clarity.

No Nicotine November, Mind & Body March

Guest Talks & Forums

Honest conversations about mental health, masculinity, wellness, and performance with MSU faculty and professionals.

Monthly speaker series

Service & Outreach

Giving back through local volunteer programs and collaborations that make a difference in the Spartan and East Lansing community.

Quarterly service projects

Join Our Community

Follow us on Instagram to stay updated with our latest events, activities, and mental health resources.

Follow @mind.msu

Our Culture

MIND MSU culture is Spartan culture — bold, resilient, united.

Proud Spartans

Everything we do reflects our Michigan State pride and commitment to Spartan values.

Substance-Free Community

We embrace clarity, choosing purpose and wellness over alcohol, nicotine, and drugs.

Student-Led Strength

By Spartans, for Spartans. We empower members to step up as leaders and role models.

Inclusive Growth

Open to all students who share our values of resilience, accountability, and clarity.