Albany State University Offers Free Boxing Classes for Mental Health

The university's initiative aims to promote wellness and resilience during Black History Month.

Published on Feb. 22, 2026

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Albany State University is hosting free boxing classes to help students manage stress and prioritize mental health during Black History Month. The program, which started with a kickboxing class, has expanded into ongoing boxing sessions that connect conversations about Black history and resilience with the importance of mental wellness.

Why it matters

Mental health has historically been stigmatized or overlooked in many Black communities. This program aims to destigmatize mental health discussions and show students that taking care of their minds is just as important as taking care of their bodies.

The details

The free boxing classes were organized by Ja'Quan Riggins, who says the program holds personal significance for him. The strong participation and positive feedback from students led the organizers to expand the effort into a series of ongoing sessions.

  • The initiative began with a free kickboxing class in early February 2026.
  • The boxing sessions are ongoing throughout Black History Month 2026.

The players

Ja'Quan Riggins

The event organizer who says the program is a dream come true and is excited to give back to the community.

Albany State University

The university hosting the free boxing classes to promote mental health and wellness during Black History Month.

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What they’re saying

“I'm so jittery right now. Like, just just setting up, man. I hope that y'all can see the excitement in my bones and my body, man. This is literally like my dream come true. Being able to give back to the people that matter the most, the youngers. I love to do, man. It's about the people. It's about the people I'm impacting. That's what it's about.”

— Ja'Quan Riggins, Event Organizer (WALB)

The takeaway

This program at Albany State University demonstrates how universities can use creative initiatives to destigmatize mental health discussions, especially within the Black community, and provide students with valuable resources to support their overall wellbeing.