"We're constantly trying to make sure that we're not in place of the parent, but if they need somebody, we want to be available so that they can talk to us," Hester said. Hester said it was not easy to pursue a degree while also serving as dean, but she enjoyed what she was doing, which made it worthwhile. She said it was challenging at times to balance everything, but if there was ever a student in need of anything, she immediately prioritized the student. Hester's professors and advisers attested to her compassion and eagerness to help students. "She's an excellent student," Dr. Marc Fager, director of professional counseling programs, said. "She always came prepared and ready to learn - very eager to improve her ability to communicate and connect with people, and she always wanted and always did keep the students the focal point of her mission of getting the degree." Dr. Todd Patten, associate professor of education and chair of mental health and wellness programs, said Hester was driven by her love for people. Patten said Hester brought an abundance of experience and energy to his class and their discussions. "She really values being in relationship with people, so this license just enhances her ability to focus on that relationship and help meet people's needs," Patten said. Hester said she was pleased with the skills the degree gave her to better help students. Moving forward, she hoped to continue growing in both her profession and her relationships with people and use her education to help her do her job to the best of her ability. story by Madison Scott leadership 199
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