Behavioral Health Matters Scholarship Recipients
WASHINGTON COUNTY, Ohio –
The Washington County Behavioral Health Board supports local workforce development in the area of behavioral health, including the fields of social work and counseling. This year, the Board awarded three $2,500.00 Behavioral Health Matters scholarships to provide support to students who are pursuing an associate, baccalaureate, or master’s degree in the behavioral health field. At the Board’s first annual appreciation event hosted on June 23rd, 2021, the recipients of the scholarships were announced and recognized.
It is important to remember that behavioral health is a blanket term that includes mental health and addiction. Behavioral health describes the connection between behaviors and the health and well-being of the body, mind, and spirit. This would include how behaviors like eating habits, drinking, substance misuse, or other behaviors impact physical and mental health.
The Board received many applications of qualified scholars, and is appreciative of every applicants’ time, interest, and dedication to the nature of the workforce. The scholarship committee, comprised of WCBHB Board members, selected Washington County residents who are passionate about serving Washington County long-term and are attending school within the county. This year’s scholarship recipients included Lacey Wilson, Derek Layton, and Megan Gilliam.
Lacey Wilson is a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) who decided to continue her education in the field of mental health and addiction. During her time as a LPN, she worked in nontraditional settings such as prisons, jails, and community mental health settings, and is compelled to address all aspects of health to make a difference in people’s lives. She is continuing her education at Marietta College and obtaining her Master’s degree in the Clinical Mental Health Counseling program.
Derek Layton is continuing his education at Marietta College and obtaining his Master’s degree in the Clinical Mental Health Counseling program. Derek’s long term goals include being a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC), owning and operating a private practice in the Mid-Ohio Valley, and working with adolescents.
Megan Gilliam is starting her career in social work by studying at Washington State Community College. Megan has lived experience, passion, and dedication to the field of mental health and addiction. Currently, she is employed, taking full time credits, and volunteering. Her long-term goals include continuing her education in social work and obtaining her master’s degree.
The Washington County Behavioral Health Board wishes to thank the citizens of Washington County for your continued support through our Mental Health Levy passed in 2017. Since receiving additional funding, Washington County has had tremendous growth in local programs and services. As a next step to addressing the local need, the Board has been able to utilize levy funding to support scholars that are growing the local behavioral health workforce.
If you are interested in learning more about the field of behavioral health, please visit our website: www.wcbhb.org or call the Board office: 740-374-6990.