Counseling students win national fellowship
An aspiration of helping underserved communities drives the research interests of two counseling students at the William & Mary School of Education who were recently selected as National Board for Certified Counselors Minority Fellowship Program Fellows.
As NBCC MFP fellows, Nancy Chae Ph.D. ’20 and Jenna Dickerson M.Ed. ’19 will receive funding and training to support their educational goals and research plans.
Dickerson says she was inspired by her mentors in the Clinical Mental Health and Addictions Counseling program, specifically the New Leaf Clinic, which works with William & Mary students and community members struggling with addiction.
“I have been fortunate enough to have incredible mentors in my journey as a counselor,” she said. “A few of these mentors have been recipients of this award in the past and their involvement inspired me to apply.”
Dickerson’s research focus is minority transition-age youth who are struggling with addiction. With the financial support of this fellowship, she will continue working with this population to develop positive coping strategies.
Chae was motivated to apply for the fellowship because of the mentorship opportunities it would offer, allowing her to connect with diverse colleagues and experienced professionals. Her research interests center on social justice issues within school counseling, particularly on training strategies to help counselors support underrepresented student populations.
“My research has stemmed from the rewarding experiences of witnessing the journeys, growths, and achievements of my many students in Baltimore as a school counselor,” she said. “Ultimately, I hope to give back to the community of colleagues and students who have helped and challenged me to continue becoming a stronger advocate.”
