JMU Doctoral Counseling Program Earns Prestigious National Award

James Madison University's Ph.D. in Counseling and Supervision program has earned national recognition, receiving the 2026 Robert Frank Outstanding Counselor Education Program Award from the Association for Counselor Education and Supervision (ACES).

One of the counseling profession's distinguished academic program honors, the Robert Frank Award recognizes exceptional counselor education programs that demonstrate excellence in professional standards, innovation, faculty leadership and student development. ACES presents two awards nationally each year: one recognizing a doctoral program and one recognizing a master's program. JMU's selection places its doctoral program among the nation's top programs in counselor education.

"We are deeply honored to receive this recognition," said Dr. Stephanie A. Crockett, program director. "This award reflects a collective effort by our faculty to build a program grounded in excellence and forward-thinking approaches to doctoral education. Over the past several years, we have expanded access to doctoral education through our innovative hybrid low-residency model while remaining dedicated to preparing future counselor educators."

JMU's program emphasizes a high-quality, relationally focused doctoral experience that combines rigorous academic preparation with intentional mentoring and meaningful connections among faculty and students. This student-centered approach prepares graduates to advance the counseling profession through leadership, scholarship, teaching and service.

"Most importantly, this award affirms our commitment to creating a student-centered learning community where doctoral students are empowered to thrive," Crockett said.

The national recognition celebrates the dedication of JMU's faculty and students and their shared commitment to developing the next generation of counselor educators, supervisors and leaders who will shape the future of the counseling profession.