Meet Chelsea Hilliard: Loyola's Newest School Counseling Professor
Loyola’s School of Education is thrilled to welcome Dr. Chelsea Hilliard, our new Visiting Clinical Assistant Professor in the School Counseling program. Chelsea is set to bring her extensive experience and unique insights to both the Human Development through the Lifespan and the School Counseling Internship courses. With a passion for supporting multilingual students and a dedication to the art of school counseling, Chelsea is an exciting addition to our academic community.
Background and Expertise
Chelsea recently earned her Ph.D. in Counselor Education and Supervision from Old Dominion University, where her dissertation explored the experiences of multilingual, learning-focused school counselors. This research marries two of Chelsea’s core interests: school counseling and multilingual education. Prior to joining Loyola, she spent four years as a high school counselor in Virginia, focusing on supporting multilingual students. Her credentials include being a Licensed Professional School Counselor (LPSC) and a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in Virginia, underscoring her expertise and commitment to the field.
Why Loyola?
Chelsea was drawn to Loyola for several reasons. Our university’s focus on School Counseling resonates deeply with her professional values and goals.
“Loyola’s commitment to a dedicated school counseling program speaks volumes about its passion and effectiveness,” Chelsea says. She also appreciates how Loyola’s mission aligns with her own values as an educator, counselor, and advocate.
“Finding a university that supports authenticity in research, teaching, and beliefs was crucial for me, and Loyola provides that environment.”
A Personal Journey into School Counseling
Chelsea’s path into school counseling was profoundly influenced by her own middle school experience. She recalls a pivotal moment when her school counselor helped her navigate and understand her emotions. This formative experience made a significant impact on Chelsea, inspiring her to become a school counselor herself. “I saw firsthand how much of a difference one supportive adult can make in a child’s life,” she reflects. This motivation continues to drive her dedication to supporting students and guiding future school counselors.
Looking Ahead
As Chelsea steps into her new role at Loyola, she is eager to contribute to the development of our graduate students into exceptional school counselors. “I’m most looking forward to being part of our students’ journeys and witnessing the positive impact they will have on their future K-12 students,” she shares. Her enthusiasm for nurturing the next generation of school counselors is palpable.
A Message to Prospective Students
Chelsea’s message to those considering the School Counseling program at Loyola is clear and encouraging. “Every faculty member in our program is committed to supporting your journey. We invest significant time and effort to ensure that you are supported throughout your education. If you are passionate about becoming a school counselor and align with Loyola’s values of Justice, Diversity, and a Focus on the Whole Person, then this is the program for you.”
Beyond the Classroom
Outside of her professional life, Chelsea enjoys the company of her three beloved bulldogs: Kujo Dexter (English Bulldog), Debo Drake (English Bulldog), and Boogie Smalls (French Bulldog). They, along with her wife, are the center of her world and provide her with endless joy and companionship.
We are delighted to have Chelsea join us at Loyola and look forward to the vibrant contributions she will bring to our School Counseling program. Her dedication to supporting students and advancing the field of school counseling promises to enrich our community in meaningful ways.
Welcome aboard, Chelsea!