Catherine A. Feminella, EdD
- Associate Dean of Students
- Widener CARE Team Co-Chair
Education
- EdD, Higher Education, Doctorate in Higher Education Leadership (2020) Widener University (PA)
- MEd, Higher Education, Student Affairs Leadership (2015)
Widener University (PA) - MEd, English and Literature (2002)
Widener University (PA) - BA, English (2000)
Widener University (PA)
About Me
I have been working at Widener University sine 2002 serving in progressive positions in Students Affairs. In my current role as Associate Dean of Students, I work to educate students on becoming professional and civic leaders in their communities. I am particularly passionate about working with students at Widener since I am a three time alumnus and filled with pride. The mission and values of Widener coincide with my own professional goals and values.
I believe that networking is an essential way to develop long term relationships with peers to advance our field and promote one another. Leadership means serving others, role modeling and collaborating at all levels. I also enjoy serving my local community as a Commissioner for the Chester Housing Authority, seeking to improve housing conditions in the Chester community. Having lived in Chester, Pennsylvania for over 20 years, I have a deep passion and understanding of the community.
Awards
- Pride Personified, Widener University (2017)
- “Phenomenal Woman” Award, Pi Tau chapter- Zeta Phi Beta Sorority Incorporated, Widener University (2014)
News
In the Media
Noteworthy
- New Partnerships and Funding Support Important Mental Health Initiatives
Widener University is proud to announce two notable developments that will help strengthen mental health services available to students on the Chester campus.
The Steve Fund Equity in Mental Health on Campus initiative has offered Widener placement in an 18-month cohort that focuses on how well the university is doing at providing services to students of color. The Steve Fund is an organization dedicated to supporting the mental health and emotional well-being of young people of color.
Through this new initiative, Widener will undergo an assessment process that yields evidence-based recommendations and strategies to better inform, support and strengthen the mental health of our students. The entire effort speaks to Widener’s commitment to creating a more inclusive and supportive campus environment.
The university has also received a $300,000 Garrett Lee Smith Campus Suicide Prevention Grant, awarded through the federal Substance Abuse & Mental Health Services Administration. The grant, which will be spread out over three years, includes funding to:
• Provide outreach and public education for students with mental health, suicide and alcohol use disorders.
• Provide training for students, faculty and staff on identifying and making referrals for students with mental health and substance use problems, and paying special attention for first-year and first-generation students through monthly programming.
• Develop a program of undergraduate student mental health ambassadors, and opportunities for graduate students to provide psychoeducational programming and mental health screenings. These efforts will further institutionalize student engagement in mental health and substance abuse education.
• Enhance partnerships with local mental health care providers who treat Widener students with more serious and long-term needs than the university’s Counseling and Psychological Services office can accommodate on an ongoing basis.
• Fund the hiring of a project coordinator to facilitate these efforts.Share link: https://www.widener.edu/node/32220