On April 9, 2025, Union County Public Schools recognized its first School Counselor of the Year, honoring an exceptional professional whose dedication to students goes far beyond schedules and transcripts. After a heartfelt ceremony filled with appreciation, Dr. Mary Jordan of Weddington High School was named the recipient of this award.
Superintendent Dr. Andrew Houlihan took a moment during the event to share his appreciation for school counselors.
"Thank you to all of our counselors and student support team members for the phenomenal work you do every day. I grew up in a household full of educators—my father was a superintendent, and my mother was a high school counselor. Through her stories, I learned how vital the role of a school counselor is. I saw firsthand how empathetic, compassionate, and dedicated she was—literally working 24/7. So, I want to extend a big thank you to all of our school counselors for the incredible work you do."
The atmosphere was filled with anticipation as each principal took a moment to share why their counselors were among the top four. Marcus Clyburn of Forest Hills High, Kenya Fowler of Prospect Elementary, Monica McGinniss of Shiloh Valley Elementary and Dr. Mary Jordan of Weddington High accomplishments were highlighted by their school principals. Each finalist was praised for their commitment, empathy and leadership in supporting students and building positive school environments.
Then, in a moment of suspense, the finalists were called to receive their certificates and were asked not to open them. All the finalists experienced a quiet yet profound moment of camaraderie. Finally, Dr. Mary Jordan was named the School Counselor of the Year. The applause that followed was resounding. With much emotion, she expressed her gratitude for the award.
"Thank you so much for this recognition today. When you all recognize the work of one school counselor, you recognize the work of all of us and that elevates our profession. From my heart, and on behalf of my fellow nominees and the school counselors in this room, I say thank you. This genuinely means the world to me."
Dr. Jordan’s contributions to Weddington High School are numerous. As the department chair for school counseling, she has transformed the school’s student support services. One of her most significant achievements is the creation of the Weddington Student Support Team, a model for collaboration among educators, counselors and community stakeholders that ensures each student’s academic, social and emotional needs are met.
With over two decades of experience, Dr. Jordan’s career is a testament to her commitment to students and the field of counseling. She began her career as a middle and high school teacher in Maryland before pursuing a master of science in counseling from Johns Hopkins University. Over the years, she has served in various roles, including college counselor, adjunct professor, assistant principal and licensed clinical mental health counselor.
Her work extends far beyond Weddington High School. Dr. Jordan has organized seven major college fairs, including national and international virtual events, strengthening relationships with universities and providing students with crucial opportunities for higher education. Her leadership in the Southern Association for College Admissions Counseling (SACAC) and the National Association for College Admissions (NACAC) has helped her create long-term partnerships with university partners, ensuring Weddington students can need resources.
Dr. Jordan is also known for her deep care and compassion for students, particularly in times of struggle.
One of her former students shared, “Dr. Jordan was my counselor in high school and always went above and beyond for me. She gave me a safe place to talk about what was happening in my life and helped me relieve any burdens. She’s been supportive throughout my college years, and I’ll forever be grateful.”
A colleague noted, “Dr. Jordan approaches her role with a unique blend of compassion, expertise and proactive leadership. She works tirelessly to ensure that each student receives the personalized support they need to thrive.”
Known for her open-door policy, Dr. Jordan has always made herself available to students in need, earning her the respect and admiration of those she supports.
One senior shared, “Dr. Jordan believed in me when I couldn’t believe in myself. Without her, I wouldn’t be graduating this year.”
When asked about the motivation behind her career choice, Dr. Jordan pointed to a powerful experience that changed the course of her life.
“When I was in high school, I went to pick up my college application from my school counselor. My school counselor wouldn’t give it to me and told me I wasn’t a college candidate. She went on to tell me that I needed to work at my grandfather’s ice cream shop. From then on, I knew I was much more than a college candidate; I was a college graduate. I worked diligently to rise above her thoughts.”
Dr. Jordan has dedicated her career to opening doors for students—demonstrating the power of self-belief and the importance of believing in others.
04/09/2025
