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'It means a lot': Michigan State placing mental health of student-athletes at forefront

EAST LANSING – Returning to Michigan State earlier this year was an opportunity Ashton Henderson couldn't turn down. Yes, the chance to work for his alma mater was part of the reason for his excitement. But there was a specific aspect of his role — he's MSU's executive associate athletics director for championship resources — that attracted him most.

He would be the chief proponent for the mental health of student-athletes.

Mental health is a cause that motivates Henderson every day.

A four-year letterwinner for MSU's football team from 2006 to 2009, Henderson has family members who have battled mental health challenges.