Valparaiso University Receives $1.4 Million for Counseling Services

Valparaiso University has received $1.4 million for Counseling Services from the estate of an alumnus who wished to remain anonymous. The gift will be used to establish an endowed fund, which will generate a perpetual source of support for Counseling Services programs and operations.

“We are very grateful for the generosity of this alumnus,” said Bonnie Hunter, Ph.D., vice president for student affairs. “College is an exciting time filled with exploration, growth and learning. At the same time, students may find that they need additional support to address specific issues and challenges. For some, mental health concerns can cause significant impairment. Gifts such as this help to provide the psychological support students need to have a successful college experience.”

Counseling Services delivers a broad range of preventative, remedial and developmental services to the Valparaiso University community. Through the Counseling Center, the Office of Alcohol and Drug Education and the Sexual Assault Awareness and Facilitative Education Office, the staff, programs and services are focused on improving the psychological well-being of students and enhancing their healthy decision-making and overall functioning.

“The entire Valpo community will benefit from this gift to Counseling Services,” said Mark A. Heckler, Ph.D., president of Valparaiso University. “The well-being of our students is a top priority, and this gift secures a permanent source of funding for programs that assist Valpo students in addressing the personal and mental health issues that may negatively impact their lives. Students are at Valpo to learn and prepare for their future, and we must do whatever we can to ensure they flourish at Valparaiso University.”

Valpo’s counseling services are confidential and provided by professional psychologists, counselors, social workers and graduate trainees. In addition to individual and group counseling and consultation, the staff offers educational programs, outreach services and works with staff and faculty to improve the quality of the living and learning environment of students.

This anonymous gift supports Forever Valpo: The Campaign for Our Future, a $250 million endowment campaign focused on raising permanent support for student scholarships, faculty development and programs that prepare students for lives of leadership and service. Forever Valpo was officially launched on Sept. 23, 2016, and has raised more than $152 million.