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Why are you an ASCA member? ASCA is a supportive, passionate space that empowers school counselors. Whether it is at conferences, collaborating with others, advocacy efforts or the bountiful resources, I always feel proud of choosing this profession and being an ASCA member.  

What inspires you about being a school counselor? Watching students grow, learn, smile and thrive in the time I have them (whether I see them for a few minutes or for a long time). My favorites are the simple smile or a hug or a “Thank you, Ms. Ritchie.” I love being the creator of my division's Project KIND (Kids Inspiring and Nurturing Development) program, because it shines a positive spotlight on the needs of student development and how it helps them thrive. 

What’s a weird fact you know? Yoda originally wanted to train Leia instead of Luke. He believed Leia had the qualities of a Jedi master, including strong will, determination, and a calm demeanor. Unlike Luke, whom he saw as impatient and quick to anger, much like his father, Anakin. Despite Yoda's preference for Leia, it's Luke who ends up being trained. It is interesting to think about the Jedi hero we almost had. 

What words do you live by? Dolly Parton – “Find who you are and be it on purpose." When I embraced this, I started to thrive both professionally and personally. Now, I practice kindness loudly; advocate for creativity; wear what I love; and express myself with imagination, fun, and a touch of sparkle. 

What would you be doing if you weren’t a school counselor? One of Jim Henson’s Muppet puppeteers or children’s book author. 

When and why did you know you wanted to be a school counselor? It was after years of being told, “You would be a great school counselor,” when I just continued to work jobs I didn’t feel fulfilled in. Then in 2014, I listened to them and enrolled at Liberty University for a master’s degree in school counseling. I love helping others, collaborating with others and providing students with the support in schools that I needed growing up. I thrive on sparking change and kindness in all lives, and I discovered I’m a natural leader without even knowing it. 

What brings you joy? I love watching someone feel kindness. Also, my family, friends, pets and my goofy golden retriever, Dolly. 

What do you do to decompress/eliminate stress/refuel for the next day? Listen to favorite songs on my way home from school and drinking a cold Dr. Pepper. 

How would you describe your job to a 5 year old? I am a special helper with a big, sparkly heart. I love to listen and talk to kids and grown ups. 

You have your own late-night talk show – who would you invite as your first guest? “Tonight on Heartfelt Chats with the Kindhearted School Counselor: Dolly Parton!” I would love to listen to her favorite stories on the impacts she has made throughout her career with so many years of positive presence.