Butler alumna is one of six finalists for national counseling honor

Vidal graduated from Butler in 2008 with a master's degree in counseling.
Vidal graduated from Butler in 2008 with a master's degree in counseling. | File photo

Butler University alumna Samantha Vidal was honored in Washington, D.C. last month as one of six finalists for the American School Counselor Association's 2016 School Counselor of the Year Award.

Vidal graduated from Butler in 2008 with a master's degree in counseling and has been counseling at Creekside Elementary School for past seven years. She was the Indiana School Counselor Association's Indiana Elementary School Counselor of the Year for 2014 after being the organization's president for 2013-14.

“I would not be in this position without the guidance and support of the professors at Butler University,” Vidal said. “Their program and preparation for [public school counselors] is unmatched. Not only that, their professors’ involvement in Indiana School Counselor Association, American School Counselor Association, and advocacy efforts have opened so many doors for me. I am forever grateful.”

School officials said Vidal's success was a combination of Butler's academic training and the effort Vidal has put forward to apply it, while continuing to develop her skills.

“Because of her comprehensive program that focuses on college/career readiness, academic success and social/emotional development, Samantha is able to deliver classroom lessons, facilitate small groups, and counsel students individually that all work to meet the goals of her program,” Assistant Professor of School Counseling at Butler Brandie Oliver said. “It is so exciting that she was selected as a national finalist. This opportunity has allowed her a platform to share the importance of elementary school counseling.”