Kara Ieva, Ph.D., a professor in the Department of Wellness & Inclusive Services in Education at Rowan University’s College of Education, is engaged in enhancing academic, social, and emotional wellness for students across all educational levels, from K-12 to higher education. Her work emphasizes the necessity for systemic change within educational frameworks to better address the diverse needs of students, particularly concerning mental health and advocacy.
Research Focus and Themes
Ieva’s research has explored various themes, including the changing demands of school counseling, particularly as educational focus shifts towards STEM disciplines and the social-emotional development of students. The COVID-19 pandemic has accelerated the need for updated counseling practices. Historically, the school counseling profession has evolved to respond to societal needs, highlighting the importance of ongoing reassessment of its methodologies.
Collaborative Research Initiatives
Her collaborative research initiatives cover topics such as antiracist counseling practices, group counseling, youth participatory action research in holistic school counseling, and the integration of STEM and virtual reality in postsecondary education. This body of work has led to notable contributions in the field, including 19 peer-reviewed publications, a comprehensive book on group counseling, and multiple presentations and awards. Additionally, she has secured nearly $2 million in grants aimed at supporting first-generation students in STEM disciplines.
Anticipated Impact on Systemic Change
Ieva anticipates that her research efforts could contribute to systemic changes as she collaborates with various educational stakeholders. She underscores the necessity of addressing disparities in educational training and practices, pointing out that traditional frameworks often mirror white, middle-class norms, which may not adequately serve increasingly diverse student populations.
Holistic Approach to Educational Reform
Through her initiatives, Ieva promotes a holistic approach to educational reform, advocating for changes at the training level that could lead to broader systemic transformations and improved educational outcomes for all students.
(Source: Rowan University)