Biography: Dr. Ponce has over 20 years of experience as a professional school counselor both at the middle and high school levels. Dr. Ponce identifies not only as a professional school counselor, but as a counselor educator, and is passionate about promoting the counseling profession. As a school counselor, she works to support and empower ALL students. Dr. Ponce has presented at professional conferences on topics related to the intersection of diversity, counseling, and supervision; the mentoring relationship in counseling & supervision; and supporting college and career readiness. As a school counselor leader, Dr. Ponce is involved in grassroots and state advocacy work which promotes the use of school counselors in their appropriate roles and in strengthening school counselor identity. Dr. Ponce also volunteers her time coaching counselors in implementing the ASCA national model as part of a comprehensive school counseling program.

Dr. Ponce earned her Ph.D. in Counseling Education and Supervision from Liberty University and her dissertation explored social-cognitive factors that influence college and career readiness. She earned a post-master’s’ certificate in counseling at-risk youth from John Hopkins University and a M.Ed. in Counseling and Development from George Mason University. Dr. Ponce holds a B.A. in History Education from Trenton State College (current name: The College of New Jersey). During her free time, she enjoys spending every available minute making memories with her four kids as well as her spouse.

Position Details: The Immediate Past President performs the duties of the president in the absence or incapability of the president. The immediate past president serves as chairperson of the Nominations and Elections committee and assume such other responsibilities recommended by the president and approved by the majority of the Executive Board. In the event the president resigns or is unable to complete the term, the immediate past president shall assume the position of president until the next election.