On Friday, February 28, 2025, Dr. Jeff Warren, Associate Dean of the School of Education and Professor of Counselor Education, was presented with the 2025 Ellen Stephens Barrett Award for Excellence in Professional Leadership. The Ella Stephens Barrett Award for excellence in professional leadership is the most coveted honor bestowed by NCCA. This award honors the memory of Miss Ella Stephens Barrett, former state supervisor of Guidance Services, and recognizes a NCCA member who has displayed outstanding leadership in the improvement and enhancement of the counseling profession. The award was presented during the annual North Carolina Counseling Association conference in Concord, NC.