Welcome to the Summer 2025 Semester!

Alumni Spotlight

We continue our new feature that shines light on some of our recent alums. Read below to hear what they are up to and advice they have for current students.

Meet Ashley Stovall (she/her)!

What year did you graduate and from what JMU Counseling Program? I graduated in 2021 from the School Counseling Program.

What was your motivation to become a part of school counseling?

My motivation to become a part of school counseling is deeply personal. Having experienced childhood trauma myself, I understand the critical role that a supportive, compassionate adult can play in a child’s life. I wanted to be that person for the students – to create safe spaces where they feel seen, heard, and valued. My passion for helping students navigate their emotional. Behavioral, and mental health challenges, especially those impacted by trauma, led me to this work.

What future do you see for yourself in School Counseling?

In the future, I see myself expanding my impact beyond school counseling to systemic change. I aspire to conduct training for K-12 school staff, equipping educators, counselors, and administrators with restorative practices to address behavioral issues, discipline disparities, and racial injustices. Ultimately, I want to establish a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting children’s mental health and training educators to implement restorative justice effectively, creating equitable and trauma-informed school environments.

What are your particular research or practitioner areas of interest?

My research and practitioner interests are diverse but interconnected. I’m particularly passionate about the intersection of restorative justice and trauma-informed care, exploring how these approaches can work together to create healthier school climates. Additionally, I’m interested in understanding the role social-emotional learning (SEL) plays in addressing basic needs insecurity and how it influences student behavior and academic success. Restorative practices and Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (PBIS) also interest me, especially in how they can transform school discipline systems.

What advice do you have for current students?

Lean into your passion and don’t be afraid to bring your authentic self to this work. School counseling can be challenging but staying connected to your “why” will keep you grounded. Seek out mentors, ask questions and continuously learn; take advantage of professional development opportunities. Remember, it’s not just about fixing problems – it’s about building relationships, creating safe spaces, and advocating for students. Your presence matters more than your realize.

What advice to you have for a prospective applicant?

If you’re considering applying to a school counseling program, my biggest advice is to do your research. Although I absolutely love JMU, I believe that in order to reach your highest potential as a student and future counselor, you need to find the right learning environment for you. Visit different campuses, talk to current students, and explore what each program offers.

That said, if you’re looking for a program with exceptional instructors who are not just professors but actual practitioners in the field, choose JMU. If you value learning from caring, empathetic individuals who truly model the qualities of an effective counselor, choose JMU. The small class sizes, intimate cohort experience, holistic approach to education, and strong foundation in psychology – choose JMU. I know you can thrive both personally and professionally in this program because this is my exact testimony. I am who I am because of the time I spent boldly wearing purple and gold.