Using dynamism and authenticity, Archie Messersmith-Bunting champions mental health
awareness worldwide at corporations and universities. He challenges people to rethink
complicated and emotional topics like depression, suicide, alcohol and drug addiction. Through
his company ArchieCares, LLC, Messersmith-Bunting aims to reframe the narrative surrounding
mental illness and addiction by facilitating honest and vulnerable conversations.
Messersmith-Bunting reaches individuals personally as he openly and honestly shares his own
struggle with addiction and clinical depression. He weaves research of top therapists and
addiction specialists into his storytelling, allowing audiences to understand the potential for
loss and pain. Whether it’s a conversation with corporate employees about mental health in
the workplace or a student workshop on resilience, Archie delivers a vibrant mix of life lessons.
Attendees are inspired, empowered and ready to make authentic changes in their life.
The Virginia native served as the Assistant Director of Programming at Illinois State University in
2010, and Fraternity Services Director at Sigma Phi Epsilon (SigEp) Fraternity headquarters in
2013. At SigEp, he created the organization’s first member safety curriculum focusing on
consent, sexual assault prevention, and healthy relationships. Messersmith-Bunting also was
the inaugural Vice President of Campus Operations and Health & Safety for the North American
Interfraternity Conference (NIC) in 2017 where he championed the organization’s Health &
Safety Initiative and the adoption of the NIC’s Alcohol & Drug Guidelines.
In 2019, he transitioned to full-time speaker and consultant providing leadership, mental health
and alcohol & drug prevention education at corporations like Solenis and The Job Sauce, and
college campuses including Clemson University, Iowa State University and The University of
Southern California.
Messersmith-Bunting graduated with a Bachelor of Arts from Samford University and a Master
of Science in College and Student Personal Administration from Illinois State University. He was
recognized by Illinois State University with the Outstanding New Professional award and
Outstanding Faculty/Staff Advisor of the Year. He lives with his husband and son Kade in
Charlottesville, Virginia and loves to binge romantic comedies, explore the outdoors and read
to Kade in his spare time.

Support the show