Midwest City, Okla. – Dr. Erica Fenderson, assistant professor of behavioral sciences and school counseling at Southeastern Oklahoma State University, was awarded the 2025 Counselor of the Year Award at the Oklahoma Counseling Association’s fall conference on October 9 at Rose State College.
Fenderson has been a full-time faculty member and taught courses in the school counseling department at Southeastern since 2022.
“It’s such an honor to be recognized by my peers and the state with an award like this,” Fenderson said. “The field of counseling is vital to the people of Oklahoma because it strengthens the heart of our communities - offering hope, healing, and connection. Our school counselors offer a layer of preventative care that equips the next generation with the emotional tools, resilience, and support they need to thrive academically, socially, and personally - building a stronger, healthier Oklahoma for the future. I am truly thankful for my role in that.”
Fenderson teaches courses in counseling research and mentors future school counselors as a practicum instructor. She is also an active volunteer with the Alliance of Therapy Dogs with her partner, Belle the Golden Retriever.
“We are incredibly proud to celebrate Dr. Fenderson as Counselor of the Year,” said Dr. Ashley Inbody, chair of Southeastern’s department of counseling and early intervention. “She has made a lasting impact on students, colleagues, and the counseling profession. This recognition is a testament to her excellence—and it is richly deserved.”
About Southeastern
Founded in 1909, Southeastern Oklahoma State University provides an environment of academic excellence that enables students to reach their highest potential. By having personal access to excellent teaching, challenging academic programs, and extracurricular experiences, students will develop skills and habits that promote values for career preparation, responsible citizenship, and lifelong learning. Our over 6,000 students include 50% first-generation students and 28% students of Native American descent, with 82% receiving financial aid. Southeastern ranks amongst the most affordable schools in the region thanks to out-of-state tuition waivers and is proud of its exceptional affordable accredited MBA program, stellar aerospace and teacher education programs, and outstanding national ranking in graduating Native American students.
