Lehigh Professor Earns Award for Transformative Leadership in Mental Health

(Bethlehem, PA)--Dr. Cheré Hunter, a professor of practice in Counseling Psychology at Lehigh University’s College of Education, has been honored with the 2025 Percy Hughes Award for Scholarship, Humanity, and Social Change. This prestigious award recognizes members of the Lehigh community committed to implementing transformative ideas both locally and globally, and Dr. Hunter’s leadership embodies these ideals.

As director of the Community Voices Clinic, Dr. Hunter manages innovative school-based mental health services at Donegan Elementary and Broughal Middle School in South Bethlehem. Under her leadership, the clinic has increased access to essential mental health supports for children and families, including those who are uninsured or underinsured. The clinic’s main focus on evidence-based practice, multicultural competence, and social justice guides its efforts—assisting high-risk students and families from diverse backgrounds.

Dr. Hunter’s dedication goes well beyond administrative duties. She has led the development of trauma-informed care and crisis intervention services, expanded outreach to Spanish-speaking families, and consistently advocates for compassionate support within South Bethlehem’s strong community. Her favorite quote from Coretta Scott King, “The greatness of a community is most accurately measured by the compassionate actions of its members,” reflects both her philosophy and her practice.

Since its founding in 2010, the Percy Hughes Award has recognized 10 individuals for their exceptional efforts in tackling urgent social issues.

Hunter has clearly made a difference in the community, and her efforts reflect Lehigh’s strategy to strengthen and grow community engagement,” said Acting Dean Robin Hojnoski.

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