PRINCESS ANNE, MD (May 19, 2025) - Washington Academy and High School (WAHS) recently hosted the “Zombie vs. Neon Walk”, a vibrant and impactful gathering focused on mental health awareness, suicide prevention, and tobacco-use prevention. Organized by the Somerset County Youth Advisory Council (SCYAC) and WAHS’ Students Against Destructive Decisions (SADD) club, the event was a collaborative effort that brought together youth, educators, and local agencies for a day of education, empowerment, and unity.
The event was part of the broader Mental Health Awareness Month campaign observed throughout May and featured two symbolic awareness walks: the Zombie Walk titled "Ghosting Big Tobacco" and the Neon Walk called "Coming Out of the Darkness", both held on the school’s track. Participants were encouraged to wear themed attire—dressing as zombies to represent the harmful effects of tobacco and donning bright neon colors to shine a light on mental health and suicide prevention.
The event was made possible through the generous support of the Somerset County Local Management Board, the Somerset County Health Department, True You Maryland and the Princess Anne Police Department. Local law enforcement agencies, healthcare providers, and other community partners were on hand to share valuable information and resources with students and families.
In addition to the walks and outreach booths, the event also showcased student creativity and advocacy through a display of powerful artwork submitted for the United Way of the Lower Eastern Shore's Addiction Awareness Art Competition. What made this year’s event especially meaningful was the partnership with Crisfield Academy and High School. Students from Crisfield were transported to Washington High to join in support of the event, demonstrating a powerful cross-county commitment to youth wellness and community engagement.
The “Zombie vs. Neon Walk” reflected a growing culture of compassion, courage, and consciousness among Somerset County youth—reminding all in attendance that their voices and choices matter.
L-R, Lynne Brumley, WAHS School Nurse & SADD Chapter Advisor, Shelton Handy, WAHS Assistant Principal, Ryleigh Sterling, WAHS Student & SADD Chapter Member at the Zombie vs. Neon Walk.
Rachel Abbott-Gray, Supervisor of Student Services, attended the Zombie vs. Neon Walk to engage with families and connect them with resources to help their students.
Members of the local law enforcement community attended in support, working the grill and serving food to attendees at the Zombie vs. Neon Walk.
WAHS students (L-R), Chloe Ferrell and Barbara Shrieves, greeted attendees and handed out necklaces and bracelets as giveaways at the Zombie vs. Neon Walk.
Participants in the Zombie vs. Neon Walk showed up in their brightest neon clothes to shine a light on mental health awareness.
At the Zombie vs. Neon Walk, WAHS Art Teachers, Scott Smith (L) and Anna Prado (R), displayed the powerful artwork submitted by students in the United Way of the Lower Eastern Shore's Addiction Awareness Art Competition.