This morning, Oneonta High School was honored to host motivational speaker Josh Copeland, who delivered an impactful message to the student body, senior athletes, and the college psychology class. Copeland, a former Division 1 athlete and advocate for mental health, shared his personal journey and offered valuable strategies for understanding and improving mental well-being.
During his talk, Copeland engaged the students by asking how they COPE—encouraging them to reflect on their core values, how they handle life’s challenges, and how they practice self-care. His message aligned with the High School's ONE Oneonta initiative, which focuses on fostering a school culture that encourages students to be curious, engaged, connected and trustworthy. Copeland emphasized the importance of owning who you are, practicing self-care, and evolving into your authentic self.
A key takeaway from his speech was the reminder that it's okay to ask for help, reinforcing that mental health is just as important as physical well-being. The assembly left a meaningful impression on students, sparking conversations that will continue to support the school’s mission of personal growth and community strength.
