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Dr. Cynthia T. Walley is a compassionate educator, mentor, and licensed professional counselor dedicated to empowering future counselors and fostering meaningful change in communities. Her leadership and advocacy ensure that students and faculty feel supported and inspired to achieve excellence in the field of counseling.

Dr. Walley earned her PhD in Counselor Education from Old Dominion University, with a focus on how school counselors are trained to recognize and respond to adolescent mental health issues. She also holds an MEd in Mental Health Counseling and a BS in Psychology, reflecting her lifelong commitment to understanding and improving emotional well-being across diverse populations.

As the Program Director for the School Counseling Program, Dr. Walley has been instrumental in shaping curriculum, evaluating program effectiveness, and maintaining alignment with professional standards such as those set by NYSED and CACREP. Her innovative work includes overseeing projects like the IHELP Fellowship and HEART Project, which enhance interdisciplinary collaboration, address behavioral health needs, and expand access to counseling services in underserved communities.

Dr. Walley’s teaching philosophy emphasizes equity, cultural competence, and evidence-based practice. She creates a welcoming and supportive environment in courses such as Ethics in Counseling and Counseling Interventions for Children and Adolescents, blending academic rigor with real-world application. Beyond the classroom, she serves as a mentor, guiding students to overcome challenges and achieve their personal and professional goals.

Her scholarly contributions include research and publications on critical topics such as adolescent mental health, career readiness, and professional identity in counseling. Dr. Walley has shared her insights through journal articles and presentations at national and international conferences, advancing the profession while emphasizing practical strategies to support students and families.

Dr. Walley also plays a significant role in counseling advocacy and professional development. As a consultant for the New York State Education Department, she has contributed to developing school counselor regulations and designing the NYSTCE School Counselor Certification Exam. Her leadership extends to professional organizations, where she has held roles such as President of the New York State School Counselor Association and Membership Chair for the North Atlantic Regional Association for Counselor Education and Supervision.

A leader who values collaboration, Dr. Walley is committed to building partnerships with schools, agencies, and community organizations to ensure students receive comprehensive training and impactful learning experiences. Her efforts include securing significant grant funding to support student scholarships, program innovation, and interdisciplinary initiatives that address behavioral health challenges.

Dr. Walley’s caring leadership style and dedication to equity and accessibility ensure that the counseling program continues to prepare students to make a meaningful difference in the lives of those they serve. Her unwavering commitment to mentoring and advocacy creates a legacy of compassion and excellence within the counseling profession.