Dean Spencer Niles recognized by University of Alabama’s Chi Sigma Iota chapter for excellence in leadership and service
Excellence in counseling: Spencer Niles, dean of the W&M School of Education, received the Thomas J. Sweeney Legacy Award from the Rho Chapter of Chi Sigma Iota.
The Rho Chapter of Chi Sigma Iota (CSI), the international honor society for counseling students, professional counselors and counselor educators, recently honored Spencer Niles, dean of the W&M School of Education, with the Thomas J. Sweeney Legacy Award at its annual induction ceremony for new members.
Rho Chapter, based at the University of Alabama, is one of the oldest and most continuously active chapters since CSI’s founding in 1985. The Sweeney Legacy award is named for Tom Sweeney, the founding president of Rho Chapter, and recognizes an individual who has established a legacy of transformational excellence reflective of Dr. Sweeney’s life and work strengthening the counseling profession and opening doors for counselors and clients to thrive.
W. Bradley McKibben, assistant professor of counselor education at the University of Alabama, expressed his gratitude to have Dean Niles on campus for the event. “Dr. Niles’ impact on professional counseling, his selfless dedication and service to others, and his encouraging mentorship reflect someone most deserving of our Rho Chapter Thomas J. Sweeney Legacy Award.”
Devon Romero, a doctoral student in counselor education and supervision and past-president of Rho Chapter, shared that Dean Niles’ remarks to the students gathered were profound and inspiring. “His presence was significant to the success of the ceremony and his message left an imprint on all who attended.”
