Counseling Center director named

NDSU has named alum Shellie Beeker as the new director of its Counseling Center. A licensed clinical counselor and supervisor with more than a decade of experience, Beeker brings a student-centered and forward-thinking approach to supporting mental health and well-being on campus.

She began her new role on July 15.

Beeker most recently served as assistant director of training and clinical operations at the University of North Dakota Counseling Center. In that role, she supervised a multidisciplinary team and oversaw clinical services and training programs supporting a diverse student population. Under her leadership, UND’s training program expanded by 300 percent, improving student access to mental health care while creating innovative pipelines for future counseling professionals.

“I’m deeply committed to helping students build emotional resilience and mental health skills that support not only their academic success but also their lifelong well-being,” Beeker said. “It’s incredibly meaningful to do this work at NDSU, a place that shaped my path as a counselor and leader, and I’m excited to collaborate with the campus community to foster the culture of care, connection and holistic support.”

Beeker holds a doctorate in counselor education and supervision from NDSU and a master’s degree in clinical mental health counseling from Appalachian State University.

She is licensed to practice and supervise in North Dakota, Minnesota and Colorado and has presented nationally on topics such as suicide prevention, clinical supervision and expressive arts therapy.

At NDSU, Beeker will oversee all Counseling Center operations, guide strategic initiatives, and collaborate with university and community partners to promote mental health and holistic student success.

“Dr. Beeker brings a wealth of experience in student centered mental health services to NDSU, including a commitment to high quality clinical services and a desire work upstream to support students’ overall well-being. I am confident she will provide the vision and direction the Counseling Center needs to continue to thrive in supporting our students” said Laura Oster-Aaland, Vice Provost for Student Affairs and Institutional Equity.

Beeker’s appointment reflects NDSU’s mission to empower students through access, inclusion and real-world support that drives academic achievement and lifelong impact.

For more information about the NDSU Counseling Center and available student services, visit ndsu.edu/counseling.