Joanne Jodry, Ed.D., D.M.H., assistant professor in the Department of Professional Counseling, was honored in February as the recipient of the 2021 Unsung Hero Award from the Association of Student Assistance Professionals of New Jersey (ASAP-NJ).
The Unsung Hero Award recognizes “someone who may or may not have been in recovery, but has overcome obstacles in their life and is spreading a message of resilience and hope throughout many of the schools we work with.”
Jodry was nominated by Nicole Catalano ’04 ’07M ’15M LPC, LCADC, who serves as the student assistance counselor at Long Branch High School. In her nomination, Catalano wrote, “It is hard to describe Dr. Jodry’s love and commitment to her students as well as the clientele she serves. She has endured serious physical health challenges but continues to fight and advocate. Dr. Jodry is truly inspiring and is dedicated in navigating the counseling field with optimism and hope.”
Founded in 1983, ASAP-NJ is a not-for-profit organization, made up of over 300 substance awareness coordinators and student assistance professionals, prevention specialists, educators, and health care professionals. ASAP-NJ membership is open to individuals employed in schools, agencies, or school-based programs whose responsibilities include advocating and developing a school-based student assistance program.