News : Nesbitt honored as 2024 Iowa School Mental Health Hero

Natalie Nesbitt, 2024 Iowa School Mental Health Hero

Natalie Nesbitt, has been a school counselor for 13 years in the Benton Community School District. She counsels both middle and high school aged children in the district. Currently, Nesbitt cares for around 750 students. With a passion for well-being, she has led efforts in the Benton Community School District to improve access and reduce stigmas around mental health.

Nesbitt was recognized at the 2024 Iowa BEST (Behavioral, Equitable, Social-Emotional, Trauma-Informed Health in Schools) Summit in Coralville with the "Iowa School Mental Health Hero Award."

She has implemented Future, Ready, and Well, a school-wide conference that is dedicated to fostering the areas of wellness. She has also organized the Benton High School chapter of the Green Bandana Project as well as facilitated the school's Clarity Group which is a student-led mental health support group.

Stella, a trained therapy dog, joined the efforts at the school and further showed Nesbitt's commitment to each student's well-being. Nesbitt commitment to bringing Stella on board, required necessary training, and opening her home to the dog.

The meaningful relationships that Nesbitt has built resonate with those she works with. Those who nominated her described her as "someone whose sincere advocacy has moved stakeholders to implement impactful supports that benefit both schools and the wider Benton community. Her students point to her welcoming presence and steadfast support as essential to their success, as her genuine care helps them navigate a variety of daily challenges."

Nesbitt holds a Master of Arts in School Counseling and a bachelor's degree in psychology from the University of Northern Iowa. A part of the school is the Scanlan Center for School Mental Health, the state's hub for school-based mental health research. training, professional development, and clinical services.

The organization recognized all of the dedicated people who demonstrate what 'school mental health' is all about. Allison Bruhn, executive director for the Scanlan Center for School Mental Health said, "Each story we tell, each leader we spotlight, becomes a catalyst for change, proving that prioritizing student well-being isn't just possible - it's essential."

A statement by the University of Iowa shares the purpose of the recognition. "Each year the Iowa School Mental Health Hero Award honors either a, educator or practitioner for their exemplary contributions to school mental health in Iowa. This individual demonstrated admirable leadership and a commitment to broadening, strengthening, and advocating for mental health and wellness supports within their school, district, or organization, resulting in positive outcomes during the 2023-24 school year. The recipient of this award has been integral in helping students, educators, and/or school staff reach new heights in their well-being (e.g., physical, mental, spiritual, and behavioral)."

Brianna White works alongside Nesbitt at times said of her, "Natalie displays such never-ending grace and compassion, a servant's heart, and the innovative spirit that keeps us moving forward in comprehensive mental health supports at Benton. I'm thankful for her continuous inspiration, guidance, and partnership that reminds me daily why we do the work that we do."

For anyone interested in seeing the nominating video, click HERE.