UNCP Hires New Director for Counseling and Testing

The University of North Carolina at Pembroke announced the hiring of Dr. Monica Osburn as the new director of Counseling and Testing Services, effective July 1.

"UNCP attracted me because it's a smaller school, and it has a lot of diversity," Dr. Osburn said. "There's a community feeling here, which is important for a good university, and it is very student-oriented."

Dr. Osburn received her doctorate in counselor education from the University of Arkansas in June 2002. She specializes in crisis management and oversaw the emotional and psychological needs of freshmen in residence halls at her previous school.

Dr. Osburn wants to promote the Counseling and Testing Center and to be involved with campus-wide programs and presentations, such as the Workshops On Wednesdays (WOW). These free seminars are usually held in the evenings and heavily attended by athletes and other student organizations.

"I plan to be visible and proactive with working with UNCP and the community," she said.

Dr. Diane Jones, vice chancellor for Student Affairs, said she is looking forward to working with Dr. Osburn and expanding programs and counseling services.

"Dr. Osburn is excited about the opportunity to serve our students, and we believe she will be a good fit for the school and the community," said Dr. Jones.

Associate Vice Chancellor Lisa Schaeffer, who supervises Counseling and Testing, said Dr. Osburn would be an asset to the university.

"Monica is going to bring a lot of counseling experience," Dr. Schaeffer said. "Supervising and teaching are her passions."

Dr. Osburn replaces Dr. Gwen Simmons, who headed the Counseling and Testing Center for the past 13 years. Dr. Simmons retired in June.

UNCP's Counseling and Testing Center provides personal and group counseling services to students, as well as personality tests and drug and alcohol awareness. Students who are experiencing personal difficulties or who wish to increase their self-knowledge for personal growth are encouraged to utilize these services.

Counseling is typically done by appointment, but emergency situations are addressed immediately. All counseling relationships are confidential.

The mission of the Counseling and Testing Center is to assist students in defining and accomplishing personal and academic goals and in integrating cognitive and affective skill development.

From Hammonton, N.J., Dr. Osburn received a Bachelor of Arts degree from Rowan University and a Master's in counseling and personnel services from The College of New Jersey.

Dr. Osburn has several publications to her credit as well as many professional presentations and workshops. She is a member of the American Counseling Services, the Association of Counselor Education and Supervision, the Southern Association of Counselor Education and Supervision and the American College Counseling Association.

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