UMN Faculty and Alum Honored for Their Contributions to Counseling Psychology

Pat Frazier, PhD

Pat Frazier and Melissa Ertl, faculty, and Nadya Fouad, alum (class of ‘84), have been awarded for their contributions by the American Psychological Association’s Society of Counseling Psychology (Division 17).

Pat Frazier and Nadya Fouad received the APA Division 17 Jo-Ida C. Hansen Lifetime Achievement in Mentoring Award. This award, named in honor of long-time UMN faculty member and alum (class of ‘74) Jo-Ida Hansen, recognizes professionals who have excelled in counseling psychology mentoring throughout their careers. 

Frazier's remarkable commitment to being a counseling psychology researcher who prioritizes student involvement was highlighted, with more than  70% of her publications co-authored by students. Over 35 years, she has advised 46 doctoral students, served on more than 200 committees, and significantly shaped the next generation of counseling psychologists through her exceptional mentorship.

Fouad has made lasting contributions to counseling psychology through four decades of dedicated and holistic mentorship. She has mentored 56 graduating students, supported countless professionals, promoted culturally sensitive practice, produced impactful real-world research, and advocated for systemic change to support underrepresented groups.

Finally, Melissa Ertl received the Fritz & Linn Kuder Early Career Award for Distinguished Scientific Contributions, which honors early-career contributions made to the science of counseling psychology. Ertl examines health risk behaviors and disparities among marginalized populations, with a focus on the connection between mental health, sexual health, and substance use. Ertl not only conducts counseling health psychology research, teaches doctoral students at UMN, and practices as a licensed psychologist, but she is also an advocate for comprehensive sexual health education.

Composed by Madison Stromberg, communications assistant.