Posted on January 15, 2026 by
Jan. 15, 2026 —The University of Texas at San Antonio is proud to recognize Heather Trepal as the 2025–2026 recipient of the Thomas J. Sweeney Professional Leadership Award from the Chi Sigma Iota Counseling Academic and Professional Honor Society International. Trepal, who is vice provost for graduate and postdoctoral studies and dean of the Graduate School, has served on the faculty of the Department of Counseling since 2004.
The award celebrates individuals who have demonstrated exceptional leadership, sustained service to the counseling profession, and significant contributions to the advancement of counselor education and professional excellence.
“I am deeply honored to receive this award,” said Trepal. “This recognition is especially meaningful because it reflects my commitment to advancing counselor education, supporting the professional growth of students and colleagues, and strengthening our field through service and leadership. I am grateful to the many mentors, collaborators and communities who have shaped my journey, and I look forward to continuing this work alongside them.”
A licensed professional counselor and board‑approved supervisor, Trepal is also a fellow and past president of the American Counseling Association and a past president of the Association for Counselor Education and Supervision and the Association for Creativity in Counseling. Her research and advocacy efforts span behavioral health workforce development, trauma, culturally responsive counseling and counselor preparation—areas that underpin her national reputation for leadership.
Trepal’s selection for the CSI Thomas J. Sweeney Professional Leadership Award reflects not only her distinguished professional record but also her deep commitment to mentoring, community impact and elevating the counseling profession. She will be formally recognized during the 2026–2027 Virtual CSI Days Awards Ceremony in October.
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Originally appeared in UT San Antonio Academic Affairs News.
