We are thrilled to celebrate a new class of dedicated change-makers in the behavioral health field! Our 2024–2025 Pre-Master’s Fellows have officially graduated, earning their Master’s-level behavioral health degrees. 

In addition to completing their academic programs, each Fellow received a certificate of completion for the Accelerator Program, a powerful initiative led by the National Mental Health Workforce Acceleration Collaborative (NMHWAC), spearheaded by the National Council for Mental Wellbeing and Kaiser Permanente. The fellowship provides financial and educational support in order to assist the development of students pursuing careers as licensed mental health and substance use treatment clinicians.

This program is designed to expand access to quality mental health care across the country by addressing a critical need: increasing the number of licensed, culturally competent, and community-rooted clinicians. 

Through targeted support, including mentorship, training, professional development, and wraparound services, these Fellows were equipped to not only finish their education but to thrive on the path toward clinical licensure.

We are incredibly proud of this year’s graduates and grateful for the commitment they’ve shown to advancing mental health equity. These future behavioral health clinicians represent a stronger, more inclusive, and more compassionate workforce.

Please join us in congratulating the graduates:

• Brandon Booker, Valdosta State University

• La’Tecia Ammons, Valdosta State University

• Zariah Shaw, Valdosta State University

• LaTosma McGhee, Mercer University

• Kaylah-Ryan Keitt, Mercer University

• Ricia Cooks, University of West Georgia

Not pictured:

• Arianna Maldonado, South University

• Brenna Smith, Columbus State University 

• Chayce Gunn, University of Georgia

• Christina Aresty, Valdosta University 

• Hollicia Cooks, South University

• Malisha Mishoe, Albany State University

• Sashana Rowe-Harriott, University of Georgia

• Willajoya Hicks, University of West Georgia 

  
  

As they move into the next phase of their professional journey, we will continue to support and uplift them through access to resources, licensure pathways, and a network of peer and professional connections.

Learn more about the Pre-Master’s Fellowship and the NMHWAC.

Congratulations to all our graduates!