Jennifer Melton, the career counselor at Hanover High School (HHS), has been named one of the Counselors of the Year by the Potomac and Chesapeake Association for College Admission Counseling (PCACAC).
The recognition celebrates those who go above and beyond in their work with students, highlighting impact in the admissions process, advocacy for students and colleagues, innovation in the industry, and more. Ms. Melton received the PCACAC award from the region that includes counselors in Delaware, Washington, D.C, Maryland, Virginia, and West Virginia.
“It's a tremendous honor to be recognized by my peers for the impact of my work and commitment to all students,” said Ms. Melton. “We are really lucky in Hanover to have such tremendous support for school counseling. Receiving an honor like this is also recognition for the emphasis Hanover County puts on this resource for our families.”
This marks the second consecutive year that a Hanover County Public Schools (HCPS) career counselor has earned this distinction. Shannon Edwards, formerly of Atlee High School, was named one of the PCACAC’s 2023 Counselors of the Year.
Karla Allen, HCPS Coordinator of Counseling Services, said she couldn’t think of a better recipient.
“Ms. Melton is the epitome of what it means to be a career counselor who advocates, initiates ideas and strategies, and leads her team to the next level,” she said. “Her work in international schools brings a new wealth of information and expertise to HCPS career programs.”
Hanover High School Principal Kristina Reece said the school is thrilled that Ms. Melton’s knowledge, hard work, and love for students is being recognized.
“She has made such a difference in the lives of our students as they prepare for next steps after high school,” Mrs. Reece said. “We are incredibly proud and honored to work with her!”
Ms. Melton, a Longwood University and Virginia Commonwealth University alumna, has been a school counselor for 18 years and came to Hanover High School during the 2022-23 school year. She previously taught eighth grade civics and economics.
Ms. Melton said one of the reasons she moved from teaching to school counseling was to “establish relationships with students and families over more than one year.”
“In my job now, I love supporting student growth, their ability to learn more about themselves, and watching them launch into adulthood over the course of four years,” she said.
HCPS has a career counselor who serves students at all middle and high schools, providing them with opportunities and resources for educational planning and career exploration.