National psychology panel recognizes UND professor for work with minority communities

Rachel Navarro, assistant professor in the University of North Dakota Department of Counseling Psychology and Community Services, is being recognized for her significant contributions to the advancement of psychology in minority communities, according to a national psychology panel. The Council of National Psychological Associations for the Advancement of Ethnic Minority Interests (CNPAAEMI) created the Henry Tomes Award to recognize emerging leaders whose work has influenced and demonstrates promise for distinguished contributions toward the empowerment of ethnic minority communities and individuals. This is done through the development and promotion of ethnic minority psychology, advocacy in the interests and psychological well-being of individuals in ethnic minority communities and leadership in institutions and organizations to advance ethnic minority interests in the practice, science, and/or education of psychology. The Council will present the Henry Tomes Award For Significant Contributions to the Advancement of Ethnic Minority Psychology by an Emerging Leader to Navarro at a ceremony, Wednesday, Jan.16, in Houston. Navarro, originally from central Minnesota, received her Ph.D., in Counseling Psychology from the University of Missouri-Columbia. Her teaching interests include career development and counseling, assessment, research design, counseling practicum, group counseling and supervision. She is committed to integrating multicultural, diversity and social justice perspectives in each of her courses. She said psychology is a perfect fit for her. I was interested in finding a field where my personal values would be respected and valued within the work I do, Navarro said. Within Counseling Psychology, I can focus my service, teaching and research activities on issues of oppression and privilege, particularly understanding the cultural, personal and environmental experiences of those who have been traditionally underserved by psychology. Navarro said she was humbled and honored upon hearing the news about her recognition. I believe this award is truly a reflection of the mentoring I have received and the mentoring I have offered to others in the field -- particularly students, she said. I see this award as recognition of \u27paying it forward\u27 if you will