Chele Gillon named Kentucky School Counseling Association Counselor Advocate of the Year

GLASGOW, Ky. — Barren County Schools has announced that Chele Gillon, district counseling services coordinator, has been named the 2025 Kentucky School Counseling Association Counselor Advocate of the Year.

The prestigious recognition was presented at the annual KSCA Conference, where Gillon was surprised with the honor in front of colleagues from across the state.

The district says this award recognizes her “exceptional leadership, advocacy and unwavering commitment to supporting school counselors and students.”

The conference tribute described Gillon as someone who “has done it all and done it all well,” highlighting her compassion, collaboration, and advocacy:

“As a true servant leader, Chele advocates tirelessly for counselors across her district and the Commonwealth. She leads Crisis Response Teams, shares weekly resources to strengthen practice, and uplifts colleagues through district-wide collaboration. Administrators, teachers, and counselors alike turn to her for guidance because she is a trusted voice in every area of counseling and mental health. Her leadership has not only changed the face of counseling in Barren County but has elevated the profession across Kentucky. She is a beacon of light for students, families, and counselors, and her impact will be felt for generations to come.”

“Chele’s dedication to the well-being of students and the professional growth of counselors is unmatched,” superintendent Amy Irwin said. “This honor is a reflection of her tireless advocacy and her genuine care for others.”