Gwen Debenedetto

About Gwen Debenedetto

As a Counselor, Consultant and Program Leader, I accompany and guide others in their personal and organizational journeys of self-discovery and exploration. If you are looking to identify, define, and communicate your passions, strengths, and purpose, amplify your unique qualities, and pursue growth and goals with perspective and confidence, I can help. For 10+ years I have been providing guidance and support to youth through adults in roles as a Counselor, Advisor, Mentor and Program Manager, while directing communications, special event and alumni relations strategies to develop intentional culture and contribute to positive personal and organizational outcomes. I have a history of collaboratively building and delivering programs that engage senior stakeholders, students, alumni, parents, administrators, faculty, business and community leaders.*Want to chat? I\'m a lifelong learner who loves making new connections. Reach out to me directly here on LinkedIn.*SPECIALTIES:Counseling|Advising|Leadership Development|Career Exploration|Resume Review|Interview Preparation|Action Plan Development Communications and Marketing Strategy|Content Management|Asset Development Across Print and Digital Media|Social Media Management|Website Management|Brand Building|Video Production|Storytelling|EditingProgram Development|Special Event Planning and Facilitation

Experience

1. Assistant Director, Center for Internships and Professional Development

   Drew University

   Nov 2021 — Present

   Shape strategic goals and budgets, while spearheading new initiatives, including internship course redesign, creation of Peer Career Coach program, technology tool adoption and resource development. • Advise 500+ students and relevant alumni on career success strategies, including career exploration, self-assessment, goal setting, experiential education, and competency-based professional development. • Manage internship course for 50+ students per semester, including registration, syllabi, assignments, and grades.• Lead cross-campus committee in the awarding of in annual internship scholarship funding. • Develop and deliver workshops and seminars on career development topics, to address current/prospective student needs identified in collaboration with campus faculty and staff, and integrate career into the curriculum.• Manage all aspects of Peer Career Coach program, from recruitment and marketing, to training and supervision.• Launch and manage Drew’s Career Closet, including marketing, sponsorships, staff training and donations. • Design and develop branding and marketing materials to raise Center awareness and build engagement.• Collect and report data relevant to Center metrics and outcomes. • Prepared and managed trainings for work study students and career advisor staff.

Education

• Seton Hall University

  Master of Arts, School Counseling

  2010 — 2013

• Villanova University

  Bachelor of Arts (BA), Psychology; Communications

  2000 — 2004

• Seton Hall University

  Ed.S., Professional Counseling

  2018 — 2020

Skills

• Event Planning
• Social Justice
• Newsletters
• Non-Profits
• International Education
• Social Media Marketing
• Event Management
• Community Outreach
• Leadership Development
• Strategic Communications
• Nonprofits