MACON — Mercer University College of Professional Advancement (COPA) graduate student Nathaneal Barrow has been awarded the National Board for Certified Counselors (NBCC) Foundation Minority Fellowship. The Fellowship is open to counseling students committed to providing counseling services to underserved and underrepresented communities.
As a Fellow, Barrow will receive $12,000 from the NBCC Foundation to aid in his academic pursuits, along with invaluable training opportunities, mentorship and experiences. Barrow is one of 32 mental health counseling students across the country to receive the fellowship.
After receiving his bachelor’s degree in psychology from COPA in May, Barrow is now working toward a master’s degree in the College’s clinical mental health counseling (CMHC) program.
“I have had an incredible experience so far, and I really want to be able to demonstrate my gratitude by continuing to learn and work in the hopes of providing an excellent level of service to others in the future,” Barrow said. “I have received excellent instruction, feedback, support and encouragement. It’s been a privilege to be a part of this program, and I look forward to what lies ahead.”
Barrow, a U.S. Army veteran, was seriously injured while deployed to Afghanistan. His military service earned him numerous awards, including the Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, Afghanistan Campaign Medal with Campaign Star and NATO Medal for service in an imminent danger zone of hazardous duty.
After he completes his master’s degree, Barrow plans to focus on providing therapy to veterans, law enforcement officers and first responders who are dealing with trauma.
Dr. Tyce Nadrich, associate professor and coordinator of the clinical mental health program, said Barrow has demonstrated academic excellence during his time in the program.
“He has been exceptionally hard-working and committed to his education,” Dr. Nadrich said. “He has approached his coursework with curiosity and critical thought and has been a model student. Further, his passion for working with minoritized clients and veterans is both evident and much needed within the profession.”
Barrow’s inspiring story of perseverance led him to be awarded Mercer’s 2024 McAfee Vision and Leadership Scholarship. The scholarship is awarded to a student who has demonstrated leadership abilities on campus or in the community.
