IMPACT Grant Candidate Spotlight

Read about a new candidate for this grant each month. Discover what motivates them to enter this field and the passion they bring to become a licensed school counselor.

The Lipscomb University School Counseling program proudly highlights Sonya Mansfield Ross, who serves as Science Department Chair at W. A. Bass Alternative Learning Center where she teaches Chemistry, STEM, and Computer Science. With a Bachelor of Science in Education featuring endorsements in Biology, Chemistry, and Computer Science, Ross brings valuable expertise to her counseling studies. Sonya’s years of experience in diverse educational settings, particularly in high-needs schools, have fueled her dedication to student mental health. Outside the classroom, she enjoys competitive volleyball, quality time with her 9-year-old, jigsaw puzzles, and Lego building.

 

The counseling program has transformed Ross's approach as an educator, enhancing her ability to recognize students' emotional needs and equipping her with tools to make meaningful connections. Her background as a teacher, coupled with her commitment to cultural humility, positions her uniquely to bridge the gap between students' needs and educators' expectations, creating more supportive learning environments.