SUMMER LEARNING
PATHWAYS & PURPOSE
Shelbi Adams
Education
Kevin Brown Sport Administration
MESSAGE FROM THE DEAN
Dear friends,
I have contributed 19 years of service to the UofL College of Education and Human Development — as interim dean, as an assistant chair and as an associate dean. I have loved each of these leadership roles and strived every day to serve with passion, optimism and commitment.
And now, my role here is changing once again.
I have accepted an appointment as Dean of the College of Education at Georgia Southern University beginning October 1. While this was not an easy decision, I am excited about the opportunity to contribute my experience, scholarship and energy at a new institution.
I am so proud of all we have accomplished together during my tenure here at the college, including:
• Increasing student enrollment and retention across all departments, including major gains with first-generation and underrepresented minority students.
• Continuing to move up in the U.S. News & World Report rankings, including landing at #67 on the list of Best Graduate Education Programs, up 26 spots in just two years.
• Increasing the successful yield of grant and contract submissions by 230% since 2019, which has allowed the college to recruit and retain more faculty.
• Building the most diverse administrative team in the college’s history.
• Achieving reaccreditation through the joint Council for Accreditation of Educator Preparation/Educational Professional Standards Board, and the Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Programs with zero concerns or issues identified – a rarity among competing institutions.
• Expanding the resources and opportunities for students to participate in experiential learning such as internships, graduate assistantships, field work and study abroad trips.
• Establishing the Office of Graduate Student Success to provide centralized, focused resources for prospective and current students.
• Creating the Louisville Teacher Residency, the first teacher residency program in Kentucky, in partnership with Jefferson County Public Schools and the initial dual credit programs in Kentucky as part of the Teaching and Learning Pathway to build a pipeline of future teachers within school districts.
• Expanding the Multicultural Teacher Recruitment Program to address the shortage of teachers of color in the region and support their academic and professional success.
• Creating the Climate, Equity & Opportunity in the Workplace certificate program to support leaders in implementing effective diversity, equity and inclusion programming in the workplace.
• Creating the Champions for Diversity program to acknowledge and commend members of the College who consistently model a strong value of diversity, equity, and inclusion.
• Securing a contract with the Kentucky Department of Education to create the Kentucky Reading Research Center (KRRC), a new entity that will support educators with data and evidence-based practices to improve statewide reading proficiency outcomes for students. Fortunately, I will be able to continue working with the KRRC in my role as Dean at Georgia Southern University and continue to be connected to faculty and staff here at the college.
A true highlight of my tenure as interim dean was connecting and building relationships with our alumni, community partners and donors. Your generous support of the college helped make our success possible. I know you will continue to support the amazing students, faculty and staff.
I look forward to my continued role with the college and welcoming the new Dean this fall.
With fondness and appreciation,
Amy Lingo, Interim Dean College of Education & Human Development
Brown Administration
FILLING THE TEACHER PIPELINE
APPRENTICESHIP PROGRAM FAST TRACKS HIGH SCHOOLERS TO TEACHING CAREERS
The College of Education & Human Development is partnering with Bullitt County Public Schools (BCPS) to launch a groundbreaking teacher apprenticeship program, the third of its kind in Kentucky. This initiative draws inspiration from the success of the Louisville Teacher Residency (LTR) but instead focuses on high school students to tackle the teacher shortage from the ground up.
“We look forward to investing our resources and expertise to serve families in Bullitt County.”
Elementary Education, Early Childhood and Moderate to Severe Disabilities, as well as dual certifications in Learning Behavioral Disorders, Early Childhood and Moderate to Severe Disabilities.
Charles Rains
15-19 and health and sport science majors on August 13.
These programs offer a unique opportunity for students to jumpstart their college journey, immerse in campus culture and forge meaningful connections with peers and mentors.
Starting next school year, BCPS will select five high school seniors to participate. These students will earn dual credit through UofL and Jefferson Community and Technical College (JCTC) while gaining paid, hands-on classroom experience. After high school graduation, they can earn their teacher certification at UofL in as little as two years, all while continuing to work in BCPS classrooms.
Students can choose from post-secondary education in
“UofL has been wonderful,” said Lee Barger, BCPS College and Career Readiness director. “They have removed a lot of barriers to help us and opened the doors to us. They want to make this program successful.”
This innovative model is designed to engage high school students early with real-world experiences, paving the way for a new generation of passionate, well-prepared teachers.
“This is the first apprenticeship model that the college is implementing,” said Charles Rains, senior academic counselor. “We look forward to investing our resources and expertise to serve families in Bullitt County.”
Photos from Summer Bridge 2023 — Our 2024 Summer Bridge Programs will welcome new teacher education majors from July
Bullitt County Public Schools classroom. Photo courtesy of WLKY.
Journey to Reggio Emilia
In January, 13 students majoring in early childhood education or related fields and current practitioners such as early childhood teachers, administrators, coaches and trainers traveled to Reggio Emilia, Italy — the town where the early childhood approach that is now emulated around the world was founded. They received training and instruction directly from the pedagogistas (teachers) and atelieristas (art and music specialists), visited the schools and learned about the social and political influences that helped shape and continue to shape the Reggio Emilia philosophy for educating young children.
INTERNATIONAL EXPERIENCES
International Trip to Belize
12 undergraduate students traveled to Belize in May as part of the college’s International Teaching Experience. Students teach in and learn about their chosen field as they are immersed in the cultures of an international village school, in Red Bank, Belize. They learn firsthand the protocols and practices of its school, the curriculum and instructional practices.
Flor Ramos (right), who traveled with funds from the Oakie & Sue Shearer Memorial Scholarship, shared her experience:
“We had so much fun learning about each other’s cultures. I gained a new appreciation for such a lovely, welcoming culture while also teaching students about my own.
My experience in Belize strengthened my passion and confidence as an educator. I realized how much I love teaching and connecting with others, and I am so grateful I got the opportunity to go. This trip was truly life changing.”
CHARTING THE COURSE
Major sporting events put students in the middle of the action
Students in the Health and Sport Sciences (HSS) majors are playing a key role in international sporting events this spring and summer with millions in attendance.
More than 100 students are taking advantage of the opportunity to work and learn at the 150th Kentucky Derby at Churchill Downs, the 106th PGA Championship at Valhalla Golf Club in Louisville in May and the EURO 2024 Football Championships in Germany in June and July. Along with course credit and invaluable hands-on experience, these events also serve as a gateway to potential careers in sports management.
From hospitality to ticketing and transportation, students’ responsibilities span a wide spectrum, offering a glimpse into the multifaceted operations that underpin major sporting events. HSS faculty
are with them every step of the way, ensuring that students are not only contributing effectively but also learning and growing throughout the process.
At the EURO2024 Football Championships in Germany, HSS students’ responsibilities will range from ticket operations to fan zone management, allowing them to experience firsthand the global impact of sporting events.
At the 106th PGA Championship, 40 UofL students served as direct hospitality hosts in VIP suites and chalets, ensuring that guests had a five-star experience.
The department’s Spring 2024 Hospitality Management course culminated in staffing the PGA Championship. Before even stepping foot on the course, students gained an understanding of the work involved in both planning and managing a tournament of this size through the creation of their
HSS students provided mobility services for guests at Kentucky Derby 150.
“Some of the most impactful lessons [in the SPAD program] were learned outside of the classroom while engaging in for-credit internships, which allowed me to build a professional network as an undergraduate student.”
Mandy
McKenzie
own events. From deciding the event components to building their own sponsorship packages, students got a taste of the behind-the-scenes work involved in bringing PGA Valhalla to life.
“These organizations come to us because we are bringing in a group of people who they know are going to show up every day and be engaged and well trained,” Sport Administration Professor AJ Moorman said. “That’s why we get these opportunities.”
Mandy McKenzie, who earned a BS in Sport Administration from UofL and serves as Director of Events for the Louisville Bats, taught the Hospitality Management course and supervised students on site at the PGA. She reflected on how her journey from student to practitioner to instructor has been shaped by her experiences in the field.
“The Sport Administration program taught me I can do anything I put my mind to,” McKenzie said. “The professors were professionals in the industry, and with many of them being women, I was better able to envision myself following in their footsteps. Some of the most impactful lessons were learned outside of the classroom while engaging in for-credit internships, which allowed me to build a professional network as an undergraduate student.”
McKenzie is paying that experience forward.
“During my week at the championship, I was able to not only provide a hospitable environment for all guests, but also to truly learn what goes into hospitality services” said Alexsa Harrold, a senior Sport Administration major. “I was given the opportunity to expand my network immensely throughout this experience. In coordination with a great staff, I became an essential piece of the PGA Championship.”
Top: Mandy McKenzie
Second down: Senior Alexsa Harrold, right scans a guest’s ticket at the PGA Championship.
Third down: Sophomore Zachary Woodall scans a guest’s ticket at the PGA Championship.
Bottom, left to right: Sport Administration majors Kylie Teal and Sami Mayrose with Instructors Gin Presley and Mandy McKenzie.
UNFINISHED BUSINESS
2024 UofL graduate, and first-generation college student Silver Beaty completes master’s degree and sets her sights on a PhD
As an undergraduate student at Boise State University, Silver Beaty dreamed of becoming an orthopedic surgeon, but life had other plans.
During her studies she joined the Montana Army National Guard (MTARNG) and the Reserve Officers’ Training Corps (ROTC) at Montana State University-Billings. However, Beaty’s dream was interrupted when she became a single mother during her junior year of college. Struggling with her confidence and balancing motherhood with academics, she earned her commission as a U.S. Army Officer, but did not complete her degree.
While Beaty’s dream shifted, she never gave up. Determined, she completed her bachelor’s degree in 2020 after 12 years. “It was a far cry from becoming a medical doctor,” she said. “And at that point, an advanced degree just wasn’t an option in my mind.”
In 2022, her career took a turn when she became an Assistant Professor of Military Science with the University of Montana ROTC program. She fell in love with higher education and at that point felt ready to take the next step for her and her family.
Seizing the opportunity to advance her education, Beaty enrolled in the UofL Master Educator Course (MEC), a program that allows Army ROTC Cadre, instructors and trainers the opportunity to earn 18-credits toward an online master of arts in higher education administration (MAHEA).
Not one to leave unfinished business behind, Beaty continued her master’s degree beyond MEC and graduated this spring after only 12 months.
“I’ve broken a generational curse and opened my children’s eyes to so many windows of what is possible,” she said. “12 months ago, a master’s degree was never possible. Today, I’m determined to earn a PhD.”
During her time in MAHEA, Beaty worked closely with Clinical Professor, Kelli Peck-Parrott, who encouraged Beaty to pursue a doctoral degree. “It was her comment, and continuous conversations thereafter, that fueled a confidence I haven’t had in myself in 14 years,” she said. “I cannot say enough about the dedication, support and commitment of the faculty and staff [in the program].”
“Becoming part of the UofL CEHD family was one of the best decisions I’ve ever made in my life.”
Silver Beaty, bottom, traveled from Montana to Louisville for commencement. She also accepted the Outstanding Military Student in Higher Education Award.
Norma Nangju at the Hira Institute.
LEADING WITH PURPOSE
Passion for community engagement leads Islamic school founder, Norma Nangju to earn UofL doctorate
Whether she knew at the time or not, Norma Nangju’s path to community-engaged research began in middle school and led her to earn a doctor of education in educational leadership and organizational development from the college. She was honored in May with the Blake Haselton Community Change Agent award as part of Spring 2024 Commencement.
Raised in the Philippines and Indonesia, Nangju’s passion for education was instilled by her parents. In middle school, she led an environmental club that addressed the social issues of Smokey Mountain, a trash heap in Manila that emitted harmful smoke. This, and her work addressing pollution as an undergraduate at Swarthmore College in Pennsylvania, set the stage for her future endeavors.
After moving to Louisville, Nangju continued her passion for service as an active member of the Muslim community. She played a pivotal role in opening the Nur Islamic School of Louisville and later the Islamic School of Louisville. Nangju’s love for teaching led her to UofL, where she earned an EdS in educational administration before pursuing a doctoral program. Throughout her studies, she continued her work in the community by helping to found HIRA Institute, a 3rd to college level seminary, where she is currently principal.
“As a leader, my strength is facilitating change by listening to people,” she said. “I don’t think I really knew what that was until [starting my degree] and learned more about [communityengaged] research.”
Looking ahead, Nangju aims to establish partnerships in Louisville to enhance housing, education, healthcare and civil rights for Muslims. She also plans to establish a college offering a bachelors in Islamic studies to fill a gap in the local educational landscape.
Beyond Louisville, Nangju hopes to apply her community research methods back home in the Philippines and Indonesia. Her story embodies the transformative power of community engagement and how one can drive change by understanding the needs of others.
INNOVATION & STRATEGIC PARTNERSHIPS LEADERSHIP FELLOW
The Office of Innovation and Strategic Partnerships is excited to announce that Jason Immekus, chair and professor in the Department of Educational Leadership, Evaluation and Organizational Development, is serving as the office’s Administrative Leadership Fellow for the summer.
In this role, Immekus will work closely with the innovation office team to:
• Participate in senior leadership meetings
• Examine strategic targets and annual measures
• Network with key offices, including the Office of Sponsored Programs Administration
• Experience behind-the-scenes processing
• Consider national trends to ensure CEHD stays ahead of the curve
• Learn about finance and operational logistics
NEW ONLINE CERTIFICATE
We are proud to announce a new fully-online certificate in Climate, Equity and Opportunity in the Workplace (CEOW)
This 12-credit hour certificate can be completed in as little as two semesters and provides students with the DEI theory and tools they need to make a positive impact in their workplace or community.
Completing the certificate in CEOW can create a variety of opportunities.
“With the ever-changing set of personnel talent and perspectives, any field will benefit from professionals who are CEOW-trained as they work to understand the differences that exist in the workplace, policy development, norms and governance that dictate theory and practice.” - Randy Whetstone Jr., Program Director
We are now accepting applications for the 2024 Fall semester.
Learn more at louisville.edu/online
MULTIPLYING MATH SUCCESS
Elementary Math Specialist Endorsement boosts performance in teachers and students
Karima Badouan, an academic instructional coach at Minors Lane Elementary School, finds it heartbreaking to hear anyone say, “I’m not a math person.” She understands the importance of identifying the right math teaching method for each student and helping those students feel confident at the earliest stages of their academic journey.
She heightened her own math teaching with the college’s Elementary Math Specialist (EMS) endorsement – the state’s only program designed for elementary teachers to broaden their depth of knowledge in mathematics beyond the elementary preparation program.
EMS “completers,” as they are called, can use the endorsement to enhance their careers as a coach/mentor, teacher leader/ coordinator, teacher of multiple classes of elementary students, teacher of special groups of students (remedial, enrichment), curriculum specialist or curriculum coordinator. Participants can complete the program as a standalone endorsement or combine the EMS with an MEd in Teacher Leadership or Rank I program.
The largest group ever earned the endorsement in May 2024, thanks to financial support from the Graham Elementary Math Specialist (GEMS) Scholarship and the Kentucky Department of Education’s Math Achievement
Fund, both of which supported the professional learning of math coaches and included enrollment in the EMS program.
“It gave me the confidence to take on a leadership role within my school...”
Karima Badouan
Led by Professor Jennifer BayWilliams and Assistant Professor Kate Marin, the EMS certification uses a cohort model and gives practicing teachers a community of peers they can turn to with questions and problems of practice.
“EMS completers distinguish themselves as a local expert and serve as mentors in informal ways, get asked to be the math leads in their grade or school or get selected to become a leader for a
region of the school district,” BayWilliams said. “The last two JCPS elementary math district leads have been EMS completers.”
Badouan, a GEMS Scholar, completed the program in 2024. “It gave me the confidence to take on a leadership role within my school as the academic instructional coach and gave me the tools I needed to spread the content knowledge and best teaching practices throughout my school and district.”
Kindergarten teacher Alyssa Jones and 4th-5th grade math teacher Dana Gahafer, both at Portland Elementary School, completed the EMS endorsement together to raise the bar for math education at their school. Both said they were drawn by the opportunity to learn from an expert of BayWilliams’ caliber.
Karima Badouan in CEHD lobby.
Left to right: Alyssa Jones and Dana Gahafer.
“I have completely changed who I am as a math teacher,” Gahafer said. “I talk less and listen more to my students. I let them lead their math learning by knowing the standards, and see where they are and what approach is going to be best for them. We focus on that math does not have to be done one way but rather in a way that makes sense to them.”
“I have completely changed who I am as a math teacher. I talk less and listen more to my students.”
Dana Gahafer
Jones said they are putting the EMS experience into practice in multiple ways. “Our goal is to create a school-wide Math Pact to ensure that students are using common language and strategies across all grade levels and see how our work will positively impact students building wide.”
Marin noted that the KDE’s support of the program demonstrates the state’s confidence in the college’s leadership in math coaching and continued professional learning for elementary teachers of mathematics.
“This is an outstanding professional learning experience for elementary teachers,” Marin said. “They leave so much better prepared to teach math and support others who are teaching elementary students.”
COUPLE SUPPORTS INNOVATION IN MATH EDUCATION WITH
GEMS SCHOLARSHIP
In their respective careers in medicine and nursing, Dr. Lyle and Linda Graham recognized that their foundational math education laid the groundwork for their professional endeavors. The Grahams are longtime supporters involved with the Office of Community Engagement, which works with units across the university in identifying ways to collaborate with community partners in mutually beneficial ways. They knew many local students were struggling with math proficiency, particularly due to the COVID learning loss.
Discussion among Henry Cunningham, UofL’s director of community engagement; Jennifer Bay-Williams, professor of math education and EMS program coordinator; and the Grahams led to the creation of the Graham Elementary Math Specialist (GEMS) Scholarship — a generous fund that supports Jefferson County Public Schools teachers and the improvement of mathematics teaching in JCPS.
The scholarship provides $6,000 per participant and with the College’s 25% graduate tuition reduction per credit hour, more than two-thirds of the cost is covered for each participating student.
Dr. Graham, a math major as an undergraduate, was energized by the new methods and best practices embedded in the EMS curriculum.
“Several [scholars] told us without the scholarship they wouldn’t be able to do this.”
Linda Graham
“Seeing [GEMS Scholars’] enthusiasm and excitement about how well this is working made a real impression on me,” he said.
The Grahams make a point to meet and hear from GEMS scholars about their experience, which confirms for them that their support is making an impact.
“Several of them told us without the scholarship they wouldn’t be able to do this,” said Linda Graham. “Knowing that, we feel very fortunate to be able to provide this
“This scholarship provided me with the opportunity to engage in this important work and learn from phenomenal math leaders Jenny Bay-Williams and Kate Marin,” said Karima Badouan, a GEMS Scholar and academic instructional coach at Minors Lane Elementary School. “The GEMS program has also been a great networking experience as I have been able to learn from fantastic teacher leaders within JCPS.”
To learn more about supporting the Elementary Math Specialist program, contact Henry Cunningham at hcunningham@louisville. edu. For information about participating, contact Jennifer-Bay Williams at j.baywilliams@louisville.edu
COUNSELING & HUMAN DEVELOPMENT
Eileen Estes ’91, ’02, retiring this summer after 34 years with the college, has been instrumental in shaping art therapy students.
Joining as a graduate assistant in 1990 and later becoming a faculty member in 1998, she has served as the director of the art therapy program since 2006.
As she completed her education as an art teacher in Madison, Wisconsin, Estes transitioned to art therapy at UofL on the recommendation of her professor at the University of Wisconsin-Madison. “I had an immediate connection with Louisville, because the program invested in its students which crossed over to the community,” said Estes.
Beyond her teaching role, Estes practices art therapy at Gilda’s Club and the Brown Cancer Center, demonstrating to her students the importance of community engagement. She views the art therapy program at UofL as a continuous, reciprocal flow of energy between the college and the community.
Estes’ legacy lies in her students, who carry her teachings back into the community. She finds fulfillment in seeing her students grow beyond the university. Even after retirement, Estes plans to do the same by continuing her clinical work in Louisville. “I want my students to see my experience and know that this is a field to be passionate about,” she said.
Susan Longerbeam has been an associate professor in the Department of Counseling and Human Development since 2016, with a 40-year career spanning five public universities.
Her research focuses on how culture and campus climate impact college student success. Throughout her career, she has consistently emphasized the need to work with students as whole people, with unconditional positive regard. Despite a decline in public support for higher education, it remains critical that universities invest in programs and staff that focus on the complex challenges experienced by college students.
“We should not look for shortcuts to human development when the world is becoming increasingly complex.”
Longerbeam co-runs the master’s and doctoral college student personnel programs with Amy Hirschy. Naturally, her proudest moments have been in her work with students.
“The doctoral and master’s students I’ve worked with have graduated and are doing well in their careers in higher education across the country,” she said. “I haven’t lost any doctoral students along the way.”
Upon retirement this summer, Longerbeam plans to spend more time with her teenage son and volunteering with a dog rescue organization and a homeless services organization.
Children coloring on the waterfront at the 2023 event.
WATERFRONT WEDNESDAY
Last year, Art Therapy program faculty Eileen Estes and Marybeth Orton left their mark at WFPK Waterfront Wednesday.
Attendees and their children immersed themselves in expressive activities like coloring pages and a community art project.
This summer, we’re excited to reconnect with the local community and share the transformative power of art.
Come see us at the UofL tent on July 31 from 4:30 – 7pm by the Big Four Bridge!
UOFL FACULTY LAUNCHING KENTUCKY READING RESEARCH CENTER
New program raises the bar for literacy education across the Commonwealth
The Kentucky Department of Education (KDE) has tapped the college to create the Kentucky Reading Research Center, a new entity that will support educators in implementing reliable, replicable evidence-based reading programs and promote literacy development.
The project includes a two-year, $6 million contract — one of the largest competitive grant awards in the college’s history — and is renewable for up to five years. Interim Dean Amy Lingo will serve as executive director of the Center when it launches July 1.
“KDE looks forward to partnering with the University of Louisville as they establish the statewide reading research center,” said Robin Fields Kinney, Interim Commissioner of Education at the Kentucky Department of Education. “It is truly a united effort as Kentucky continues its efforts to implement evidence-based, high-quality reading instruction and meet the diverse needs of our youngest readers.”
The Kentucky Reading Research Center will deliver research and data on evidencebased, high-yield instructional practices and strategies. It will also partner with KDE to establish a research agenda evaluating early reading models, instructional resources and evidence-based practices needed to help students improve their reading ability. The center will conduct ongoing research on reading programs throughout the state, including their cost, effectiveness and how well they maintain student progress over time. Based on the annual outcomes of the center, KDE will make recommendations about programming and funding to the Kentucky General Assembly Interim Joint Committee on Education by October 1 every year.
State Sen. Stephen West (R-27), chair of the Senate Education Committee, sponsored Senate Bill 156, which called for the KDE to establish the new research center, during the 2023 Kentucky General Assembly session.
“The center will be a welcome addition to our state’s efforts to focus on evidence-based practices and improving statewide reading proficiency outcomes for students,” said West. In 2022, West and State Rep. James Tipton (R53), chair of the House Education Committee, co-sponsored the Read to Succeed Act, which called for a multifaceted approach to improve reading outcomes for all students. The Kentucky General Assembly responded and appropriated $22 million in funding to support the implementation of the act’s comprehensive efforts, among them a statewide reading research center.
“Early literacy is the foundation for life. It is critical for Kentucky students to be able to read at the highest possible grade level by the end of third grade,” Tipton said. “Our statewide reading research center and Executive Director Amy Lingo are poised to make a significant contribution to P-20 literacy efforts in our state.”
Lingo noted that she began her career as a seventh-grade teacher, where she developed a passion for teaching young people to read. Leading the Center will bring that passion and expertise full circle. “It is a privilege for me to have the opportunity to support our educators and students alike by examining effective strategies and advancing our understanding of literacy education in Kentucky,” she said.
“Through interdisciplinary collaboration, cutting-edge research and community engagement, we will strive to advance our understanding of reading acquisition, comprehension and intervention strategies.”
Kentucky state educational leaders came together at Bourbon Central Elementary School to unveil the new Kentucky Reading Research Center.
Left to right, top row: Incoming Commissioner of Education Robbie Fletcher, Sen. Stephen West, Rep. James Tipton and Bourbon County Superintendent Larry Begley.
Left to right, front row: KDE Chief Academic Officer Micki Ray, Interim Commissioner of Education Robin Fields Kinney, Kentucky Reading Research Center Director and Interim Dean Amy Lingo and University of Louisville Provost Gerry Bradley. Photo by Crystal Sicard, Kentucky Department of Education.
OUR ALUMNI
A degree from the CEHD can take you anywhere...
Elizabeth McKune ‘99 EdD in Educational and Counseling Psychology
McKune serves as chief operating officer for Seven Counties Services, the community mental health center for the Greater Louisville region. She has provided mental health services and training in many roles and settings. She says she was drawn to the profession because of the wide variety of things you can do with a psychology degree. “My clinical skills training prepared me well for direct care, as well as working with individuals and groups in collaborative and innovative ways to do more with often strapped resources. I’m thankful for all of my training experiences, as they prepared me well to be a voice and advocate for individuals in our underresourced communities to obtain and receive the quality healthcare we all deserve to receive.”
John Nevitt ’91 MEd in Counseling Psychology
Nevitt has spent more than 25 years at Metro United Way where he currently serves as director of economic mobility, overseeing the organization’s efforts to advance financial stability resulting in strong households. This includes workforce development, benefit access, financial counseling, access to financial services and support for employers.
Nevitt says he knew at an early age that he wanted a career focused on making a positive difference. “I found my degree to be applicable to many aspects of my work because, at the end of the day, we are all individuals trying to do our best for everyone we love. My foundation in counseling allows me to understand beyond words to recognize underlying intentions which is invaluable in any career working with people and promoting positive change.”
Steve Shaw ’17 BS in Organizational Leadership & Learning
Shaw is making a community impact as the founder of the Boys of Color Rise mentoring program. The initiative aims to inspire young men of color, ages 10-16, to reach their full potential by fostering core values and providing positive male role models. Shaw credits UofL for providing a strong foundation in leadership, project management, research and service which helped him feel equipped to make a meaningful impact. “Completing the OLL program boosted my confidence and gave me a sense of purpose,” said Shaw.
Nikki Boyd ’00 BS in Health & Human Performance - Exercise Science
Boyd serves as director of maternal infant health initiatives with March of Dimes, working with community partners to improve maternal and infant health throughout Kentucky. She has worked in school, hospital and community settings to advocate for the importance of understanding social determinants of health, such as poverty, race and education. While earning her bachelors, Boyd developed a passion for preventative medicine.
“Having that skill and knowledge really helped prepare me for a career in public health. Learning about the science of exercise, nutrition, kinesiology, anatomy, sports psychology and more gave me a core understanding of the mind-body-soul connection to health. I still use some concepts of exercise science even today.”
Eric Dios ’21
MA in Higher Education
Eric Dios, a U.S. Marine Corps educator, highly recommends the college for its programs tailored to the unique needs of higher education administrators. “With specialized courses, experienced faculty and opportunities to test my understanding of operating in higher education, the program offers invaluable experiences for hands-on learning,” said Dios. Associate Dean, Jeffrey Sun was particularly influential on his experience. This connection inspired Dios to pursue a doctoral degree in education at the University of Southern California.
Kara Young ’10, ’11 BS and MAT in Health &
Physical Education
Kara Young was recently named a 2024 National Teacher of the Year by the Society of Health and Physical Educators (SHAPE) America. Young attributes her success to the strong foundation she built at UofL, saying, “Without the foundation created during my time at UofL, I would not be where I am today.” Young currently teaches at Manual High School and continues to give back to UofL by serving as a cooperating teacher, helping pre-service teachers develop their skills.
ANSWERING THE CALL TO EDUCATE
As prinicpal at Echo Trail Middle School, alumna Kara Ammerman is growing the next generation of leaders in UofL’s backyard while strengthening the partnership between the university and local schools.
With four degrees and one certificate from the CEHD, Ammerman ‘07, ‘08, ‘13, ‘16 is called to the challenge of education and discovering solutions that lead to thriving futures here and beyond.
She relies on the connection between her alma mater and Jefferson County Public Schools to help her prepare her students for their next steps.
Read more at hereandbeyond.louisville.edu.
WE WANT TO HEAR FROM YOU!
Students, alumni, supporters, faculty, staff and friends of the CEHD: Please share a great story or feedback by scanning the QR code and completing a short form.
Kara Ammerman in the library at Echo Trail Middle School.
THRIVING TOGETHER BEYOND GRADUATION
Brennen Campbell, the college’s Spring 2024 Outstanding Graduate Student, exemplifies the transformative power of education and counseling in his work as a mental health professional.
Raised in rural Michigan, Brennen Campbell was instilled with a deep appreciation for community, a value he has carried throughout his life. After applying to UofL, Campbell began volunteering at Bridgehaven Mental Health Services, where he found a new sense of purpose. The compassionate community there led him to accept a full-time position with the organization. Campbell also served as a volunteer research assistant to Melissa Henry, assistant professor of counseling and human development, contributing to two important studies in counselor education and publication in three scholarly journals.
“We
have
In accepting his Outstanding Graduate Student Award, Campbell remarked, “As we transition into the next phase of our lives, it is our time to foster a community — one that embraces our differences and makes greater efforts to dismantle obstacles that hinder
success. We owe it to ourselves to practice what we’ve learned at UofL: To be aware of our impact on others — both positive and negative — and ask how we intend to do better for the community. And we have the responsibility to support those who are marginalized and ensure that they are treated with the respect that they deserve. We have been given the tools to continue building our community — let’s get to work.”
been given the tools to continue building our community — let’s get to work.”
Brennen Campbell
This Spring, he earned his MEd in Counseling and Personal Services (Clinical Mental Health Counseling), and we are proud to officially welcome him to the Louisville Alumni family.
Campbell’s dedication to service and social responsibility reflects our Cardinal values, but as he highlighted it is our collective responsibility to build and support our community.
Together we can make a lasting impact.
Your contributions can help us continue to provide exceptional education and support to future generations of students like Brennen.
Scan the QR code or visit give.louisville.edu.
