Mandy Hofland had tears in her eyes as she was presented a large check totaling $5,000 during a surprise announcement in front of her peers during her Instructional Theory and Practice in Counselor Education and Supervision class yesterday afternoon.
She was awarded the Sanford Health Military and Veteran Scholarship which honors individuals who have furthered their own progress and enriched the lives of others, especially in service, academics and community involvement.
Shocked was the word Hofland used to describe how she felt when the announcement was made. “There are so many deserving veterans,” she said. “I am honored and humbled to be selected for this scholarship.”
Capt. Paul Weckman, U.S. Navy (Ret.) and head of military and veteran affairs at Sanford Health, said Hofland made the selection decision an easy one.
“At Sanford Health, we are honored to help Mandy Hofland further her education to a doctorate with this $5,000 Military and Veteran scholarship. As we went through applications, Mandy’s stood out because she’s a well-rounded individual. She’s a working mom of two, who is actively engaged in the North Dakota Air National Guard as a Master Sergeant and has made it her mission to help others in her civilian work. Others spoke very highly of Mandy in her letters of reference, highlighting her ability to be a team player, stellar work ethic and genuine personality. We commend Mandy for her service in the military and her commitment to serve others with her work in behavioral health,” said Weckman.
Serving the community as a licensed master addiction counselor, Hofland has a strong passion for understanding people who struggle with substance use and mental health disorders. She works with individuals from all walks of life who are often at some of the lowest parts of their life. Hofland works collaboratively with them to achieve their goals, realizing the importance of being an advocate and helping people who at times aren’t able to help themselves.
“Education must be a top priority for individuals, notably those serving our country,” said Hofland. “Scholarships such as the Sanford Health Military and Veteran Scholarship make it possible for veterans to continue their education. Opportunities such as this help offset the financial cost of being a full-time student while trying to work part time and be a mother and wife at home. This scholarship will ensure I can continue to focus on the things that are important to me – the military, my community and my family – while working towards my degree at NDSU.”
Hofland grew up in Fargo. She is currently studying to receive her doctorate in counselor education and supervision while serving in the 119th Wing of the Air National Guard’s Force Support Squadron.
“NDSU doctoral students in counselor education and supervision such as Mandy Hofland display great dedication to the counseling profession and to their country through their military service,” said Todd F. Lewis, professor and doctoral program coordinator in the NDSU counselor education program. “We congratulate her on this distinction and on her pursuit of counseling excellence through her education at NDSU.”
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