A group of graduate students at Western Illinois University (WIU) is stepping up to combat vaccine misinformation through a new awareness campaign called Vax-Connect. The six-month project aims to enhance vaccine confidence, dispel myths, and promote access among students and the surrounding community.
The student-led initiative, coordinated through the Health Sciences Graduate Students Association (HSGSA), is funded by a $2,500 grant from the Illinois Chapter of the American Academy of Pediatrics (ICAAP) and supported by the Wesley Foundation, a faith-based organization on campus.
“The world doesn’t trust public health services anymore, including vaccines,” said Douglas Manganda, a public health graduate student and leader of the project’s Vaccine Education Team. He added, “As public health students, we have a role to play in changing that mindset and rebuilding trust through education and engagement.”
The idea for the project began at the Wesley Foundation, where students gather twice weekly for meals and discussion. Conversations about health revealed widespread uncertainty about vaccines, from how to access them to understanding their benefits.
“There’s a lot of vaccine hesitancy, myths and misconceptions,” Manganda said. “We realized people didn’t just need information, they needed trust and access.”
Four-Part Campaign Strategy
Running through December 2025, the Vax Connect Project will focus on four main activities:
• Peer education and outreach led by trained student advocates;
• A series of “Baby Shower” events for pregnant students and student parents;
• Digital storytelling campaigns across TikTok, Instagram, and Facebook; and
• Multilingual materials in Spanish, Bengali, and several African languages are being used to make information accessible to more students.
Abiola Ayodele, a broadcast journalist with over five years of experience in newscasting and feature reporting, whose stories have been published across top media outlets in the U.S. and Europe, leads the project’s Digital Storytelling Team. He emphasized that a strong media presence — across radio, television, print, and online platforms — will be central to the campaign’s overall impact.
“Our goal is to meet people where they are — whether on campus, in the community, or through the media they engage with,” Ayodele said. “We want to make vaccine information relatable, visual, and authentic through radio, television, print, and online storytelling that connects with real experiences and voices.”
Meanwhile, Rachael Adebiyi and Mimi, co-leads of the Baby Shower Events Team, are focusing on outreach to student parents and pregnant students.
“We want to create a supportive space where health meets community,” Adebiyi said. “It’s not just about the vaccine. It’s about showing care for those balancing school and family.”
Mimi added that the events will mix fun with learning.
“We’re planning baby-themed games and small giveaways alongside health information,” she said. “It’s an easy way to start meaningful conversations about vaccination.”
Currently, the team is recruiting volunteers from all departments to help with education, event planning, and digital media. Volunteers will receive orientation and training before the official rollout.
“The campaign will blend digital education, community-based events, and interactive sessions to raise awareness about vaccine safety and importance,” Manganda said. “Whether you’re in health sciences, communication, or art, there’s a place for you.”
The team is also collaborating with the McDonough County Health Department, the Public Health and Wellness Department, and other community partners.
“Our bigger picture is to increase knowledge about vaccines and, ultimately, save lives,” Manganda said. “This is a project by students, for students, and for the greater good.”
How to Get Involved
Students interested in volunteering or learning more about Vax Connect can contact the Health Sciences Graduate Students Association (HSGSA) or reach out through the Wesley Foundation at WIU.
