ATLANTA – Mercer University Master of Science in clinical mental health counseling student Danielle Nelson was recently selected to receive an American Association of University Women (AAUW) 2021-22 International Fellowship.
“In her short time with Mercer, Danielle has already proven to be one of our exceptional students,” said Dr. Paul H. Smith, assistant professor and coordinator of the M.S. in clinical mental health counseling. “She brings a wealth of experience from her home country of Jamaica that contributes to our collective pursuit of training counselors who are capable of serving diverse clients across the country and around the world. I look forward to her future contributions to the profession and the people of Jamaica.”
Nelson, from Kingston, Jamaica, plans to deliver and transition to scale effective group therapy interventions in under-resourced communities in Jamaica upon earning her degree and returning home. This work will include women impacted by general socioeconomic adversity and gender-based violence and inequities.
“I am still in awe that I was selected from a field of such deserving applicants. This is truly a blessing,” said Nelson. “I am really passionate about creating therapeutic groups that can help people find healing. The M.S. in clinical mental health counseling is equipping me with skills to do just that. Thanks to the support of AAUW, I’m getting a head start on my journey toward accomplishing my academic goals and career aspirations.”
One of the world’s leading supporters of graduate women’s education, AAUW has provided more than $115 million in fellowships, grants and awards to 13,000 women from 150 countries over the past 133 years. The organization is also one of the nation’s largest educational funders for women of color.
AAUW is awarding a total of $5 million for 2021-2022 through seven fellowships and grants programs to more than 260 scholars, research projects and programs promoting education and equity for women and girls.
“Especially during these challenging times, we are pleased to be able to provide support to so many deserving women,” said AAUW Executive Vice President and Chief Program Officer Gloria Blackwell. “Throughout the years, our fellows and grantees have changed the face of leadership nationally and globally, and we know that this year’s awardees will continue in that esteemed tradition.”
AAUW International Fellows are selected for their academic achievement, scholarly promise and demonstrated commitment to women and girls. Thousands of AAUW International Fellows have returned to their home countries to become leaders in government, academia, community activism, business and science.
AAUW advances gender equity for women and girls through research, education and advocacy. The nonpartisan, nonprofit organization has more than 170,000 members and supporters across the U.S., as well as 1,000 local branches and more than 800 college and university members. Learn more at www.aauw.org.
About the College of Professional Advancement
Mercer University’s College of Professional Advancement is committed to serving post-traditional learners. Undergraduate, graduate and certificate programs are offered to adult learners seeking professional advancement into leadership roles in and beyond their communities. Programs provide students with distinctive, multidisciplinary experiences that integrate theory and practice. In addition to providing general education and elective courses for various colleges and schools at Mercer, the College of Professional Advancement offers degree programs in areas including technology, public safety, public and human services, leadership and administration, health care and liberal arts. Programs are offered on Mercer’s campuses in Atlanta and Macon, as well as Regional Academic Centers in Douglas County and Henry County, and online. To learn more, visit professionaladvancement.mercer.edu.
