 | UTAH ASSOCIATION OF SCHOOL PSYCHOLOGISTS |
UASP 2024-25 Awards
School Psychologist of the Year
Casey Pehrson
Casey is a practicing school psychologist, an adjunct professor at BYU, a published author, and a trainer throughout the state helping students, educators, medical professionals, and more become better informed about treating and preventing depression and boosting well-being. She is described by her students and co-workers as “compassionate,” “exceptional,” and “tireless.” As one coworker wrote, “Casey brings a genuine love and passion for school psychology to every class she teaches. Her love for her students and her commitment to improving the field are palpable . . . Her light and warmth make her a wonderful instructor, but her passion and dedication make her exemplary.”
School Psychology Student of the Year
Molly Michaels
As a third-year student currently interning in Salt Lake City School District, Molly has demonstrated remarkable dedication and skill, building on her experience as an early childhood special education teacher, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic. Throughout her studies, Molly has received high praise for her excellent interpersonal skills and taking initiative in supporting diverse school teams. Her engagement in classes and her natural mentorship have made her a favorite among her peers. Her thesis on trauma-informed care reflects her passion for supporting vulnerable students, further evidenced by her active involvement in research and presentations. We are confident Molly will be a transformative force in school psychology.
Barbara Bennett Excellence in Diversity
Emilie Larsen
Emilie is a practicing school psychologist in Davis School District. She embodies professionalism, ethics, and leadership. Her advocacy with diversity awareness and her mentorship of colleagues and students reflect her dedication to inclusivity. She is passionate about advocating for culturally and linguistically diverse youth and students with disabilities. She actively promotes best practices by participating in district committees, her school newsletter, and more. Emilie is described as enthusiastic in a way that encourages her colleagues to “push harder” and do better to support students. Emilie’s unwavering commitment to diversity and her positive impact on the communities she serves make her highly deserving of this award.
Outstanding Service to Children and Families
Celeste Edmunds
Celeste Edwards is the Director of the Christmas Box House in Utah, an organization dedicated to supporting children who are victims of abuse, neglect, or homelessness. The Christmas Box House provides safe shelter, care, and resources to children in need, advocating for their well-being and helping them transition to more stable living environments. Edwards has been instrumental in expanding the reach of the organization, ensuring that vulnerable children receive the support and protection they deserve. In addition to her work at the Christmas Box House, Edwards is the author of the book Garbage Bag Girl, which chronicles her personal journey and the struggles faced by children in the foster care system. The book sheds light on the emotional and physical challenges many foster children experience, often moving between homes with their belongings in garbage bags, symbolizing the instability of their lives. Through her writing and leadership, Edwards continues to raise awareness about the importance of providing consistent care and advocacy for at-risk youth.
Distinguished Service to UASP
Kirsten Mele
Kirsten has worked as a school psychologist for 28 years and is currently practicing in Davis School District as a Related Services Supervisor where she supports all related servers, especially those in early career. Her mentorship/supervision has impacted many professionals. Since she joined the UASP Board in 2019, she has served as a Board Trustee, chair of various committees including the Culturally Responsive, Public Relations, Professional Standards, Conference, and Awards committees as well as serving a term as President. Kirsten has worked tirelessly to support the association through advocacy, mentorship, and collaboration. With the goal of promoting the importance of the profession of school psychology in the educational system, Kirsten is one of the first people to volunteer when a need arises. From working late to prepare for a conference, to sending supportive messages to her colleagues, or talking to news outlets about post COVID impact on mental health, Kirsten is a model UASP member and school psychologist.
Please consider nominating a fellow UASP member today!
Review the nomination criteria for each award on their respective applications below.
LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT The purpose of the Lifetime Achievement Award is to identify and recognize an outstanding school psychologist who has had state level impact on the field of school psychology and who has dedicated his or her professional life to the development and betterment of school psychology. SCHOOL PSYCHOLOGIST OF THE YEAR The purpose of the School Psychologist of the Year Award is to identify and recognize an outstanding school psychologist and to promote public awareness of the profession. | BARBARA BENNETT EXCELLENCE IN DIVERSITY The purpose of the Barbara Bennett Excellence in Diversity Award is to identify and recognize an outstanding school psychologist who has provided leadership and advocacy for the treatment of diverse populations with respect within the field of school psychology. SCHOOL PSYCHOLOGY STUDENT OF THE YEAR The purpose of the School Psychology Student of the Year Award is to identify and recognize an outstanding school psychology student and to promote public awareness of the profession. |
Two additional awards are presented annually by the UASP Board:
DISTINGUISHED SERVICEOUTSTANDING SERVICE TO CHILDREN AND FAMILIES