By Amy Kurfist
Dr. Gulsah Kemer, assistant professor of counseling and human services in the Darden College of Education, was recently awarded a prestigious national award during the 2018 American Counseling Association (ACA)Conference & Expo held in Atlanta, Ga. ACA, the world's largest association exclusively representing professional counselors, is a professional and educational organization that is dedicated to the enhancement and growth of the counseling professional.
Kemer received the ACA Research award, which honors an individual for innovative or groundbreaking research in a specific line of inquiry. Her research examines what beginning and expert clinical supervisors think and how their thoughts inform their supervision practices.
"I am honored to be awarded with the American Counseling Association Research Award at a considerably early stage in my career," said Kemer. "With its unique methodology and implications, the awarded research study could play a critical role in contributing to the emerging pedagogy of clinical supervision."
Kemer was one of twenty ACA member honorees celebrated for distinguishing herself through her exemplary work and, in doing so, enhancing the field of professional counseling.
"I am grateful for my doctoral dissertation chair, Dr. L. DiAnne Borders, who facilitated my thinking and supported my research ideas," Kemer added. "It has been a great pleasure to work with my wonderful colleagues in the ODU Counseling and Human Services Department and Darden College of Education who have been supportive of my research agenda."
Approximately sixteen faculty members and students from the Department of Counseling and Human Services attended the national event. They participated in five professional presentations as well as book author sessions, education sessions and roundtable discussions focused on the overarching conference theme of the future of counseling.
One of six academic departments within the Darden College of Education, Counseling and Human Services offers undergraduate and graduate degrees. To learn more about the academic programs visit the Department of Counseling and Human Services.