HCPSSHCPSS Announces 2026 School Counselors of the Year and School Counseling Advocate of the Year
February 11th, 2026
The Howard County Public School System (HCPSS) recently announced the recipients of its 2026 School Counselor of the Year and School Counseling Advocate of the Year awards. The winners, listed below, were selected in recognition of the positive and measurable impact they have made in their school communities.
- HCPSS School Counselor of the Year and Elementary School Counselor of the Year: Stephanie Dix, Dayton Oaks Elementary School
- Middle School Counselor of the Year: LaNae Nelson, Glenwood Middle
- High School Counselor of the Year: Lori Miller, Long Reach High School
- School Counseling Advocate of the Year: Evelyn Chaverini, Guilford Park High School
“It is a privilege to honor and celebrate the work of HCPSS school counselors and the staff collaborating with them,” says HCPSS Instructional Facilitator of School Counseling Liz O’Connor. “This year, we specifically recognize Stephanie, Lori, LaNae and Evelyn for their exemplary leadership and advocacy. With a focus on data to drive decisions, their efforts have created the systemic change necessary to foster student growth and achievement.”
About the 2026 Winners
Stephanie Dix was honored for her leadership, advocacy and collaboration to implement a comprehensive school counseling program, as well as her passion for supporting student’s sense of belonging and use of data-driven practices to identify and implement appropriate supports.
LaNae Nelson was recognized for driving student access and achievement, having led teacher trainings and developed strategic intervention plans that address students’ unique needs.
Lori Miller was honored for her longstanding advocacy to remove systemic barriers to student success. Her efforts have helped shape Maryland policy, increase the number of Long Reach High School students attending college, and reduce equity gaps.
Evelyn Chaverini was recognized for her collaboration with Guilford Park’s school counselors and student services as well as her efforts to increase community engagement and empower families to navigate the complexities of financial aid and the admissions process.
The awardees were chosen by a panel of judges composed of retired HCPSS school counselors and current staff. They were recognized during National School Counseling Week and will compete for School Counselor of the Year at the state level next school year.