Alicia Brown Becton, PhD, honored with national leadership award

Alicia Brown Becton, PhD, department chair of the Department of Research, Counseling and Curriculum in Augusta University’s College of Education and Human Development, has recently been honored with the Vernon E. Hawkins Pioneer and Leadership Award by the National Association of Multicultural Rehabilitation Concerns. This prestigious award recognizes individuals who have shown exceptional leadership and pioneering efforts in advancing civil rights, social justice and community empowerment.

“It’s incredible to think that faculty members took the time to go through this intense process, collecting letters of recommendation from community members, faculty and students and put an entire packet together on my behalf,” said Becton.

She believes in transformative leadership and servant leadership as the foundation of her efforts.

“Anything that ties back to the community is crucial,” Becton said. “At my previous institution, we opened a clinic that served both students and community members. Here at AU, we’ve received support for the Counseling Education Training Center (CETC), which will hopefully open in the spring.”

The CETC will provide mental health and wellness services to students. Once students have gone through Student Counseling and Psychological Service, they will be referred to the clinic based on their needs.

As the department chair for Research, Counseling and Curriculum, Becton is excited about several other ongoing projects. These include the continued growth of the department’s doctoral program, receiving six new positions for research faculty and hiring researchers to assist with their Doctor of Education in Educational Innovation program.

“We couldn’t be prouder of Dr. Becton for receiving this prestigious award,” said Judi Wilson, EdD, dean of the College of Education and Human Development. “Colleagues from her former institution, Fresno State, nominated her for this award, which speaks volumes about their respect for her and the impactful leadership she left behind. She is an exemplary leader and fierce advocate. We are truly blessed to have her on our AU leadership team.”

Regarding the honor, Becton expressed a deep sense of pride and accomplishment.

“I definitely didn’t do it by myself. I’m always a team player, very collaborative, and I think this award is just a highlight of that,” said Becton. “It recognizes the community and network we have, working with like-minded individuals toward common goals in our shared interests as faculty and administrators, especially in my department.”