Work that is done behind the scenes or in privacy can often be overlooked for recognition. But for Robert Rando, director of Wright State’s Counseling and Wellness Services, his work has spoken volumes of integrity and sincerity, earning him national recognition.
Rando received a Lifetime Achievement Award from the Association for University and College Counseling Center Directors. It is the group’s highest award and honors recipients for their service to the association and leadership in a university counseling center.
Four individuals from around the country nominated Rando for his dedicated contribution to university counseling centers.
“It was a career high for me,” Rando said. “I was totally honored and very humbled.”
Rando has displayed scholarship, mentorship and innovation with professional integrity and ethics for during his 18-year career at Wright State.
“His staff are incredibly proud of him and know how well-deserving he is of this award,” said Daniela Burnworth, associate director for clinical training at the Counseling and Wellness Services. “He is a true asset to this campus and our role in supporting student success in all areas of wellness.”
Rando supervises all services provided by Counseling and Wellness Services, including individual, group and couples therapy; psychiatric services; crisis intervention services; health promotion programming; and psychology and counseling training to graduate and doctoral students.
“I enjoy providing support to the counseling center staff in the important work that they do,” Rando said. “The work of the Counseling and Wellness Services staff is critical to student success and can truly be a transformative experience for our clients.”
He also mentors staff members in their professional development and growth.
“He is an inspiring leader, nurturing his staff’s strengths and consistently encouraging us to challenge one another, him and ourselves,” said Burnworth. “He is dedicated to service, professionally and personally.”