Nee Na Xiong, CARE Center Director, MA
Student Philosophy
I believe every student deserves to be seen, heard, and supported as they pursue their educational and personal goals. I strive to create inclusive and welcoming environments where students feel valued, empowered, and capable of success. I approach my work with empathy, respect, and a commitment to equity, recognizing that each student brings unique strengths, experiences, and perspectives. By building meaningful relationships and fostering collaboration, I aim to remove barriers, promote access, and support students in reaching their full potential both inside and outside the classroom
Education
Bachelor of Art: Sociology and Women Studies - Saint Catherine University
Master of Art: Educational Leadership - MN State University - Mankato
___________________________________________________________________________
Felicia Jallah, Mental Health Therapist, MA, LPCC
Counseling Philosophy
I'm sure you heard the saying " You've got one life", but have you thought about how you would like to live that life? At times, we can experience struggles that can move us out of our window of tolerance or leave us feeling like we have no options or means of relief. My role is to support you on your journey of self-exploration and self- awareness to dismantle unproductive narratives that are no longer serving you, as well as assisting with developing coping interventions for lasting change. I embody a nonjudgmental, unconditional positive regard approach that meets you where you are at, and is free of judgement. I have experience working with individuals who have experienced trauma, incarceration, substance abuse, issues with emotional regulation, stage of life concerns, anxiety and depression. Let's vibe, heal, and learn together!!! I am looking forward to meeting you!
Education
The University of Toledo - Bachelor of Arts, Psychology, Minor in Criminal Justice
William James College - Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling with a Forensic and Correctional emphasis
___________________________________________________________________________
Jen Moore, Mental Health Therapist, MA, LPCC
Counseling Philosophy
I believe meaningful counseling begins with a real human relationship. I want students to feel that they can bring their full selves into the room—the parts that feel clear and confident, as well as the parts that feel messy, uncertain, overwhelmed, or hard to put into words. I try to offer warmth, honesty, curiosity, and humor, and to build a space where we can think together about what is happening and what might help. Our conversations may include stress, identity, relationships, trauma, neurodivergence, grief, life transitions, or the challenges of balancing college with everything else. I am also interested in the practical circumstances shaping a student’s well-being. Together, we might identify unmet basic needs, explore sources of connection and support, and find campus or community resources that could make life feel more manageable. I see counseling as collaborative and flexible. You are welcome to ask questions, disagree with me, change direction, or tell me when something does or does not feel useful. Most importantly, you do not need to arrive with the right words or a clear goal. We can begin with where you are and figure out the next steps together.
Education
Manchester University BA – Communications and Media Studies
Boise State University MA – Counselor Education
___________________________________________________________________________
Traci Page, Counselor & Parent Navigator, MA, LPCC, LADC, LPC-WI
Philosophy
As the Parent Navigator, I support students who are balancing college with parenting, work, relationships, finances, appointments, and everything else life manages to sneak onto the calendar. My approach is practical and solution-focused. Together we can figure out what is getting in the way, identify resources, and find realistic solutions that work for you and your family. College has enough passwords, deadlines, and things due at 11:59 p.m.- asking for help shouldn’t be complicated. As a counselor, I bring more than 15 years of behavioral health experience working with individuals experiencing anxiety, depression, other mood disorders, substance use concerns, relationship challenges, major life transitions, and everyday stress. My counseling style is strengths-based and down-to-earth. I believe counseling should be a comfortable place where you can be yourself, talk honestly, and leave with something useful. You don’t need to have everything figured out before you walk through my door-we’ll figure out the next step together.
Education
New York Institute of Technology, Bachelor of Science, Behavioral Science
Adler Graduate School, Master of Arts, Counseling and Psychotherapy
Adler Graduate School, Certificate in Co-Occurring Disorders
___________________________________________________________________________
Ellie McDowell, Social Worker, LSW
Philosophy
As a social worker, I advocate and collaborate with individuals to ensure that their basic needs are being met by connecting them with on campus and external resources. My goal is to meet students where they are at and to empower them in a variety of ways in reaching their personal goals. As a social worker, I have the unique opportunity to be creative in the ways I support students while treating each individual with dignity and as an expert of their own lives. I also have the opportunity to network and seek out new partnerships with outside organizations to meet needs as they arise. I seek to approach students from a trauma-informed lens and creating a space that welcomes vulnerabilities and honest conversations. An additional part of my role is supporting students in gaining access to our campus Food Cupboard. This is a campus resource for all students to utilize as a supplement for their food needs.
Education
Augsburg University, Master of Social Work (In Progress)
Bethel University, Bachelor of Social Work
___________________________________________________________________________
Elton Dahn, Director of Student Conduct & Conflict Resolution, Title IX Coordinator
Student Mediation Philosophy
In all of my roles, I seek to be flexible with students, staff, and faculty to create a positive and welcoming environment, and I strive to approach situations with empathy, concern, and fairness. I strive to provide understanding and openness to all cultures and experiences.
Education
North Hennepin Community College, AS - Criminal Justice
Metropolitan State University, BS – Criminal Justice
___________________________________________________________________________
Lindsay Fort, Dean of Student Development
Philosophy
My greatest joys at work come from connecting with and making a difference for students! It is a privilege to serve the NHCC students every day. My philosophy is to approach every situation with an open mind, kindness and empathy, and to work together to find a solution for any barriers you may have.
Lindsay has experience in a variety of campus areas and currently works with our CARE Center, Food Cupboard, Student Conduct, Student Life, TRIO, Library, and Tutoring departments. Our goals are to streamline our support services to be accessible and meet your needs as a student. Reach out if you have ideas or need support at NHCC!
Education
University of St. Thomas BA - Communications Studies and English
University of Connecticut MA - Education and Administration