The American School Counselor Association has named Suffolk University Professor Timothy Poynton the 2011 Counselor Educator of the Year.

Poynton is an assistant professor of Education and Human Services and director of the School Counseling Program in Suffolk University’s College of Arts and Sciences. He is widely published, and his research interests include data-driven decision making, college admission counseling, professional development in school counseling, school counselor preparation, technology applications and urban school counseling.

Influential researcher

“We are delighted that Tim Poynton’s outstanding contributions in the field of school counseling have been recognized by an organization with worldwide influence,” said College Dean Kenneth Greenberg. “Students in our Education and Human Services Department benefit from his teaching and research, but Tim’s influence extends far beyond our campus to benefit professionals across the nation and around the world.”

Poynton had worked as a school counselor before shifting the focus of his career from practice to school counselor education.

During his doctoral training, Poynton worked at the National Center for School Counseling Outcome Research, where he conducted research and training for school counselors across the nation.

He has presented at state school counseling conferences in Alaska, California, New Hampshire, New York, Massachusetts, Rhode Island, Washington and Wisconsin and at national conferences for the American School Counselor Association, American Counseling Association, and the Association for Counselor Education and Supervision.

Supportive environment

Poynton serves on the editorial board for the journal Professional School Counseling.

“I am honored, and, while I am grateful to have my work recognized and affirmed by peers, the award would simply have not been possible without the support of the Suffolk community -- from my students and department colleagues to the highest levels of administration,” said Poynton.

“While teaching is central to the mission and identity of Suffolk University, the supports provided for faculty to engage in research and professional service activities were key to my being chosen for this award. As such, I view it as acknowledgment not just of my contribution to the profession of School Counseling, but our contributions.”

The American School Counselor Association, or ASCA, is a worldwide nonprofit organization based in Alexandria, Va. ASCA supports school counselors’ efforts to help students focus on academic, personal/social and career development so they not only achieve success in school but are prepared to lead fulfilling lives as responsible members of society.

Poynton will be honored along with the School Counseling Director of the Year and Advocate of the Year award recipients at the ASCA annual conference, June 25– 28, 2011, in Seattle, Wash.

“The contributions these award recipients make to the school counseling profession on a daily basis are vital to ensuring school counselors can help students be successful – today and as they grow into adults,” said Brian Law, ASCA president for 2010-2011.