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Spring 2020

Message from the Editor

Dr. Julia Whisenhunt, Gamma Zeta Chapter

In celebration of Chi Sigma Iota’s 35th anniversary, we sought to develop an edition of the Exemplar
that would highlight our Society’s major accomplishments over the past 35 years, pay tribute to some
of the most influential figures in CSI history, and serve as a historical document. The challenge therein
is that we could not possibly recognize all of the individuals who have worked diligently to make CSI
what it is today. In this edition, we understand that some names are not mentioned and some voices are
not heard, but the collective efforts of CSI leaders and members over the past three and a half decades
are intended to be honored at this milestone.
In the following pages, past presidents recount events in CSI’s development that paved the
way for the success of both our Society and the field of professional counseling. Our founder, Dr.
Tom Sweeney, tells the story of CSI’s birth. Dr. Craig Cashwell poignantly pays tribute to Dr. Jane
Myers’ pivotal role in CSI. Dr. Courtland Lee talks about his experience as ACA and CSI President and
his work in advocating for a unified profession. Dr. Carol Bobby recounts her time as CSI President
and CACREP President and CEO, and the collaborative efforts to promote professional identity and
excellence in counselor education. Dr. Tom Clawson and Dr. Bill Nemec each tell stories of early efforts
to address professional licensure and multiple professional collaborations that have signficantly changed
CSI over the years. Dr. Victoria Kress discusses the importance of professional advocacy in furthering
our profession. Dr. Catharina Chang addresses the importance of social justice and the contributions
CSI has made towards promoting equity and equality in our field. Dr. Casey Barrio Minton recounts
the beginnings of JCLA and the role JCLA plays in promoting CSI’s vision and mission in professional
literature. Dr. Samuel Gladding talks about the importance of CSI to the profession and the Society’s
role in shaping the next generation of professional counselors. Dr. Tom Sweeney reflects on the role of
wellness in our profession and presents the CSI Wellness Position Paper. Dr. Nicole Hill explains the
2019 strategic visioning process that will help guide CSI through the coming decade. And Dr. Peggy
Ceballos presents exciting information about CSI Days at the 2020 ACA Conference and Expo in San
Diego.
Truly, this edition is filled with CSI history and pride. We hope you enjoy reading this edition as

much as we enjoyed developing it.

Dr. Nicole Stargell Dr. Devon Romero Annaleise Fisher Dr. Julia Whisenhunt

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