Dr. Todd K. Whitman, professor and chair of the Department of Counselor Education at Shippensburg University, has been honored with the 2025 School Counselor Educator of the Year Award from the Pennsylvania School Counselors Association (PSCA), recognizing his contributions to counselor education over the past 20 years.
Whitman emphasizes that winning this award pays respect to the collaborative nature within the Department of Counselor Education. His mission has always been to provide a learning environment for students that prioritizes empathy and strengthens their ability to thrive as professionals. “The work I do as a faculty member is a part of a team of counselor educators who work together to create a fertile environment for student learning,” Whitman explained.
Alumnus Dr. Adam Oldham, who was named the 2024 PA Counselor of the Year, nominated Whitman for the 2025 award. “I was delighted to be nominated by Dr.Oldham, who graduated from our master’s in School Counseling program in 2013,” said Whitman.
Whitman admires Oldham’s dedication to counselor education, stating that he “puts his money where his mouth is.” Oldham is dedicated to supporting school counselors and legislative changes, including when he testified before the Pennsylvania state legislature regarding the needs of students and counselors.
Looking ahead, Whitman has ambitious goals for the Department of Counselor Education. Currently, the department is engaged in a self-study to prepare for re-accreditation by the Council for the Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP). Additionally, they’re expanding the Growing Edges Community Clinic to serve a broader range of clients. Whitman also chairs Shippensburg University’s Institutional Review Board (IRB) and is currently updating its policies and procedures, ensuring that research continues to meet ethical standards and federal requirements.
As Chair, Whitman’s main focus is on leveraging the strengths of the faculty and staff within the department. He acknowledges the significant pressures that face higher education today, noting that institutions must remain flexible and agile by embracing online instruction and technology.
Whitman also recognizes that the learning curve can be challenging for those new to the counseling field. “You’re going to have a steep learning curve in your first 1-2 years, and having patience for your errors and omissions is necessary to prevent burnout,” he acknowledged. In addition, Whitman highlights the importance of maintaining emotional well-being. “Compassion fatigue is real, and counselors need a good self-care plan so that they can do their jobs effectively,” Whitman shared.
As the Department of Counselor Education at Shippensburg University continues to seek ways to improve and innovate, Dr. Whitman’s recent award serves as a reminder of his dedication to the field and to his students. With a strong commitment to collaboration, data-driven results and professional development, Whitman brings about positive change within counselor education at Ship and beyond.
