Leading with heart: Hillary Vaughn named UCPS 2025–2026 School Counselor of the Year

For Hillary Vaughn, the most meaningful moments of her work don’t come with recognition or applause. They come quietly when a student uses a coping strategy or makes a better choice.

“Seeing their growth is my favorite part,” Vaughn said. “Watching how they problem-solve, cope with big feelings and express themselves to each other; it’s so humbling. You see who they are, and then you watch them slowly grow into who they’re becoming.”

On Feb. 5, Vaughn, a school counselor at Cuthbertson Middle School, was named the Union County Public Schools 2025–2026 School Counselor of the Year. The celebration took place during National School Counseling Week, a meaningful time for counselors across the district, many of whom attended to support the nominees.

The event also honored counselors across UCPS for their commitment to student well-being. Dr. Jay Jones, the assistant superintendent of student support, noted that school counselors are often the first adults students turn to for guidance, whether they are facing academic pressure, emotional challenges or personal struggles.

Superintendent Dr. Andrew Houlihan congratulated Vaughn and the other finalists.

“All three finalists are absolutely worthy of this honor,” he said.

Vaughn brings more than a decade of experience, having served as a school counselor in Illinois and North Carolina. She joined UCPS in 2019, first at New Town Elementary School before moving to Cuthbertson Middle in 2023. She has intentionally transitioned with her students as they move from sixth to eighth grade, designing a comprehensive counseling program to meet their evolving academic, social and emotional needs.

Her work includes classroom lessons, small-group counseling and individual support focused on attendance, behavior, social skills, executive functioning and student success. Vaughn also serves as the McKinney-Vento and foster care liaison, Multi-Tiered System of Supports representative, 504 coordinator, mentor and cheerleading coach. She is a National Board-Certified Teacher in school counseling, a National Certified Counselor and a certified diversity, equity and inclusion specialist.

Cuthbertson Middle School Principal Catherine Perry described Vaughn as “the heartbeat of our school.”

“She makes sure every student feels valued, seen, heard and supported, and that changes the entire climate of a school,” Perry said.

Vaughn treasures those small moments of growth.

“When students use a coping skill, handle a tough situation or make the right decision, those are the ‘aha’ moments,” she said. “That’s when you know the work matters.”

She was one of three finalists for the district honor, alongside Taylor Heimrich of Fairview Elementary and Laura Conway of Hemby Bridge Elementary. They were both recognized for their dedication and impact.

At Fairview, Principal Stephanie Burris praised Heimrich as a steady, trusted presence for students and staff, who calmly steps into challenging situations. At Hemby Bridge, Principal Dr. Gina Chisum described Conway as a fierce advocate who helps students navigate big emotions, build confidence and develop resilience, creating a culture of care throughout the school.

The moment served as a reminder that a school counselor can make a difference through one conversation, one coping strategy and one student at a time.

“Watching students grow into themselves,” Vaughn said, “that’s what makes this work so special.”