By HEIDI KNAKE
UNK Communications
KEARNEY – Kailey Wilcox wants to make a difference in people’s lives.
With a passion for mental health, the Indianola native will do just that when she earns her master’s degree in clinical mental health counseling during Friday’s spring commencement ceremony at the University of Nebraska at Kearney.
Along with her upcoming graduation, Wilcox is celebrating another major achievement. She was recently named the 2026 Graduate Student of the Year by UNK Graduate Studies and Academic Innovation.
“I’m extremely grateful. To me, it reflects all of the time and energy that my excellent mentors and peers have invested in my growth,” Wilcox said. “It is a result of both my passion for the field and theirs.”
Wilcox earned her bachelor’s degree in psychological sciences from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, where she was highly involved on campus. At UNK, she continued that involvement, serving as social media chair for the Graduate Student Association and president of the Graduate Association for Counseling Excellence.
Her impact extended beyond campus, as well. Wilcox helped lead the Out of the Darkness Community Walk, a suicide prevention event that drew more than 300 participants.
While staying active on campus and in the community, she maintained a 4.0 GPA and conducted research she presented at the American Counseling Association conference in April.
“Kailey demonstrates the professional qualities that define an exemplary graduate student,” associate professor Ümüt Arslan wrote in her nomination letter. “She is collaborative, reflective and consistently approaches her work with enthusiasm and professionalism.”
Her dedication has opened doors for her next chapter. Wilcox was accepted into three nationally ranked doctoral programs and decided to pursue her Ph.D. in counselor education and counseling at Idaho State University.
Why did you choose clinical mental health counseling at UNK?
I love working directly with people, have a passion for mental health and want to make a difference. I truly believe in this work and its impact on the world. I chose UNK because, during my application interview, I sensed a strong sense of community and clear passion for preparing well-rounded professionals.
What has been one of the most meaningful experiences you’ve had while at UNK?
Participating in the Out of the Darkness Community Walk. This event raises money for the research, advocacy and outreach efforts driven by the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention. This year, our team, which included many other UNK counseling students, hosted the event at Yanney Park. We hope this event continues to grow for years to come.
Why is it important for students to be involved on campus and in the community?
These experiences have strengthened my leadership skills and solidified my interest in continuing my education. I’ve made meaningful connections through this work that have opened doors during my time at UNK and for my future.
Being involved in advocacy and community work can provide a sense of purpose, social connection and a wide range of skills. In the mental health field specifically, these efforts help reduce stigma and increase access to care. Additionally, many mental health professionals are driven to promote systemic change, which can have a significant impact on overall wellness.
Who has impacted you during your time at UNK?
I had so many amazing mentors during my time at UNK. Dr. Doug Tillman, Dr. Ümüt Arslan, Dr. David Hof, Dr. Matt Mims and Dr. Grace Mims, to name a few. I am also immensely grateful for the support I received from my wonderful friends and family throughout my educational journey.
What are your long-term goals in the mental health field?
My long-term goals include earning my Ph.D. in counselor education and counseling at Idaho State University, becoming a counselor educator, working in private practice, becoming independently licensed, obtaining licensure in drug and alcohol counseling and conducting research on suicide prevention and nature-based interventions.
My time at UNK has prepared me by strengthening my leadership and academic skills, developing my counseling abilities and providing a strong sense of social support and community.
