Taraji P. Henson Launches Mental Health Initiative at Coppin State University.
Henson is set to unveil the latest SheCare wellness pods at Coppin State University in Baltimore.
For years, actress Taraji P. Henson has been a strong advocate for Black mental health. On May 2, Henson and her best friend, Tracie Jade Jenkins, revealed plans to launch the newest SheCare wellness pods at Coppin State University in Baltimore later this semester. Jenkins, who is the executive director of the Boris Lawrence Henson Foundation—an organization Henson founded in honor of her father’s mental health struggles after his service in the Vietnam War—shared the exciting news with The Baltimore Banner.
The SheCare pods, designed specifically for Black women, will provide counseling, workshops, and wellness activities. This initiative is the result of a collaboration between the Boris Lawrence Henson Foundation, Coppin State University, and Kate Spade New York.
According to a press release from Coppin State University, the SheCare pods at the university will be the first indoor version of the program, which aims to provide groundbreaking mental health support to HBCU campuses. The initiative will also be introduced at Alabama State University, Hampton University, and Bennett College.
Coppin State opted for an indoor location to ensure the pods could be used year-round, maximizing the impact of the services.
“When we first envisioned the Boris L. Henson Foundation SheCare Wellness Pods, I knew we had to start with women, especially those on HBCU campuses. Growing up, women are often taught to suppress their emotions, focusing on family and community at the expense of their own well-being,” said Jenkins.
“It’s been an incredible journey working with Kate Spade New York to bring our shared vision to life over the past few years. We’re excited to open our next chapter at Coppin State University this spring, in a city close to my heart and my hometown,” said Henson, a Howard University graduate.
The pods at Coppin State also feature murals designed by Veronica Ishii, a student and mural artist from the university, chosen by the campus leadership team. Ishii explained her inspiration for the mural:
“I was inspired by the concept of ‘Fanny’s Garden,’ which honors the legacy of our namesake. The design reflects the nurturing spaces women create—where softness meets resilience, and growth blossoms,” said Ishii. “It’s about the strength we draw from being in community. Through our shared experiences and support, we empower each other to thrive, creating a tapestry of connection that celebrates the joy of womanhood.”
Dr. Anthony L. Jenkins, president of Coppin State University, expressed his enthusiasm for the new mental health initiative in a statement.
“We are thrilled to partner with Taraji P. Henson, The Boris Lawrence Henson Foundation, and Kate Spade New York to bring the SheCare Wellness Pods to our campus,” Dr. Jenkins said. “This collaboration underscores our commitment to improving the mental health and well-being of our students. By providing these resources, we hope to empower our students to take charge of their mental health and excel in all areas of their lives.”
