Chapman’s Attallah College of Educational Studies proudly highlights the achievements of its students, alumni, and faculty at the 2024 California Association of School Counselors (CASC) Conference and Expo. This year’s conference provided a platform for members of the Attallah College community to share their expertise and insights on key educational topics. 

CASC 2024

In a special recognition, M.A. in School Counseling student Stephanie Pham was honored with the Clarence “Curly” Johnson Scholarship for her dedication to supporting student mental health and academic success. Pham’s work exemplifies the resilience and commitment that define the Attallah College community. 

Attallah College’s students made a strong impact with their presentations, addressing critical issues in student support and well-being.  

  • M.A. in School Counseling students Jasmine Ramos, Camila Lopez, and Julian Hernandez Martinez joined Pham to present “I Am Enough: Brief Cognitive Behavioral Strategies to Help High-Achieving Youth Cope with Perfectionism,” sharing valuable strategies to support youth facing high academic expectations. 
  • Additionally, M.A. in School Counseling students Veronica Flores, Joana Aranda, and Alfonso Bravo led a presentation titled “Navigating Educational Spaces: Understanding Trauma and Lived Experiences of Students from Families with Mixed Immigration Statuses.” 

Part-time faculty member Enrique Espinoza collaborated with alumni Anwen Buu, M.A. ’24, and Danielle Symes, M.A. ’24, in their presentation, “Towards a Collaborative, Sentipensante Approach on Student Support,” which emphasized inclusive, student-centered practices. Their session underscored the importance of collaboration in supporting diverse student needs. 

In addition, alumna Katerina Sorrell, M.A. ’14, who works for the Orange County Department of Education, presented “From Anxiety to Achievement: Innovative Approaches to Boosting Mental Wellness and Academic Success,” sharing her insights on fostering student mental wellness and academic achievement. 

CASC 2024

The Attallah College community’s representation at the conference also extended to leadership roles. Laurie Tristan, a part-time faculty and a member of the Santa Ana Unified School District, joined the CASC Board of Directors. At the same time, alumna Tamara Nabulsi, M.A. ’22, held the position of Social Justice Equity and Antiracism Committee Chairperson. 

A special thank you to School Counseling Instructional Assistant Professor Randelle Kirkemo, Associate Professor of School Psychology Kelly Kennedy, Associate Professor of School Psychology Amy Jane Griffiths, Assistant Professor of School Psychology Annmary Abdou, and CSP Administrative Coordinator Hunter Esquivel for their support. The Attallah College is proud to support the ongoing contributions of its students, faculty, and alumni as they continue to influence educational practices and student success across California.