BINGHAMTON, NY – To coincide with the 27th Annual National Eating Disorders Awareness Week, Binghamton University will host a series of events from Monday, Feb. 24 through Saturday, March 1.

According to The National Eating Disorders Association, 20 million women and 10 million men suffer from an eating disorder at some time in their lives and 70 percent of surveyed Americans believe that if the media used average-sized people in advertising, eating disorders could be reduced.

To help combat this real-life issue, Binghamton University’s Eating Awareness Committee (EAC) is launching U R > UR Reflection, a program that will take place across the Binghamton University campus to promote positive self-image and combat negative messages and stereotypes about students’ self-image, self-esteem and self-confidence.

The week-long campaign will feature a video photo collection of over 120 images of campus leaders completing the statement, "When I look in the mirror…"

Following is a schedule of events:

Feb. 24 (12:30-4 p.m.): Tabling at the Binghamton University MarketPlace with the opportunity to make a mirror to take home.

Feb. 25 (6-8 p.m.): A video viewing, mirror crafting and discussion on body image, led by the EAC and Residential Life staff, will be held simultaneously in the Hillside Commons; Mohawk Hall Great Room; Appalachian Collegiate Center, room 111; the Lower Hinman Dining Hall; and the Chenango Champlain Collegiate Center, Multipurpose Room A.

Feb. 28 (3-4 p.m.) Several EAC members and students will conclude the week with a video showing and mirror crafting in the West Gym Lobby.

"If we talked to others like we talk to ourselves in the mirror, we would be charged with abuse," said organizer and Health and Wellness Studies lecturer Jessica Surdey. "It is essential for us to mirror positive self-image."

The mission of Binghamton University’s Eating Awareness Committee is to provide education, outreach and resources to the campus and local community related to body image, eating disorders, nutrition and fitness. For more information, contact Jessica Surdey at jsurdey@binghamton.edu.

The National Eating Disorders Association (NEDA), headquartered in New York City, is the leading non-profit organization in the United States supporting individuals and families affected by eating disorders. NEDA serves as a catalyst for prevention, cures and access to quality care. Each year, NEDA helps millions of people across the country find information and appropriate treatment resources through its toll-free, live help line, outreach programs and website. NEDA advocates for advancements in the field and envisions a world without eating disorders. For more information, visit www.MyNEDA.org.