The Pacer My PACAC Story: Ellen Deitrich and Justin Ledesma Ryan Mignone, Widener University
Last year at the 52nd annual PACAC Conference, arguably two of the Association’s most recognizable members were lauded for their years of service. Ellen Deitrich won the Delwin K. Gustafson Recognition Award, the highest honor given by the Association that reflects the professional dedication, personal qualities and simple sense of service. Meanwhile, Justin Ledesma achieved the William R. McClintick, Jr. Service Award, which recognizes a person with 10 to 25 years of experience who has dedicated significant service to the college counseling profession and to PACAC. As Ellen recalled the events that transpired that evening, she remembers feeling emotional after piecing together that two dear friends nominated her. “Winning it from Chuck Bachman and Francine Block was incredibly special,” she said. “I think highly of them and respect them too.” Regrettably, Ellen also pointed out that she failed to thank Francine in her speech afterwards. Continued on page 2
WHAT’S INSIDE President’s Letter 3 2015–2016 Executive Committee 4 Everyday Professional Excellence: Being Motivated, Engaged, and Inspired Eery Day 5 St. PACAC’s Day 6 Reading List 7 Counselor’s Corner 9 PACAC Postings 10 Safe Space Ally Workshop 11 Successful Instant Decision Days 12 Government Relations Corner 12 R.each Y.our F.ull P.otential 13 PACAC’s Rising Stars 13 PACAC Summer Institute 2016: Celebrating Its 39th Year of Professional Development 14 Calendar 2015 15 PACAC Funnies 15 Camp College 16
From left to right: Chris Boehm (nominator), Justin Ledesma, and Ellen Deitrich