Hill named first BHECN Scholar at CSC

According to BHECN, the purpose of its scholar program is to recruit students from different Nebraska regions into the behavioral health workforce and ensure their success as practicing, licensed professionals in Nebraska. Scholars receive mentorship, professional development, and participate in social and learning opportunities built around a cohort model.

Hill, a native of Gillette, Wyoming, has been a CSC Trustee, Admissions Ambassador, Justice Studies Peer Mentor, and member of the Social Work And Psychology (SWAP) Club and the JED foundation on campus. She is a Psychology tutor, Criminal Justice tutor, Academic Success Coach, Cardinal Key member, and Emerging Eagle Leaders Participant.

She will receive a $5,000 scholarship each of the two years she is in the program.

“Along with the financial aspect, I am paired with a mentor who works in behavioral health, and I attend online didactics about the different aspects of being a professional in behavioral health. I also get advice for applying to graduate schools, attend different networking activities, and attend a Nebraska conference focused on behavioral health. This program gives me more insight into behavioral health professions and allows me to feel more confident in my steps to develop my career,” Hill said.

She has been paired with the owner/therapist of Seasons of Hope Counseling in Alliance, Nebraska, Brett Omar.

“He has been a great mentor, and I feel more prepared knowing I have an insight into the type of career I would like to pursue. Brett has provided me with relevant information as well as always checking in to see how I am doing,” Hill said.

After being named to the program, Hill attended where she met BHECN Scholars from the University of Nebraska Lincoln, the University of Nebraska Omaha, the University of Nebraska Kearney, and Wayne State College. She plans to attend the Spring 2027 BHECN Conference in Omaha in-person and other regular online meetings and videoconferences.

Hill said although she has not been in the program long, she feels supported.

“I am honored to be in such an amazing program. I think being in this scholarship program helps me stand out as an applicant for graduate schools and future careers in therapy. Overall, I am glad that I am getting closer to helping people with the hopes of helping juveniles or those affected by the justice system,” Hill said.

Dr. Tara Wilson, Professor of Counseling at Chadron State College, said Hill has displayed leadership, professionalism, and commitment to rural mental health.

“This is a well-deserved honor. She has proven herself to be an advocate in the field of behavioral health, “Wilson said. “Samantha will make a wonderful addition to the field. I look forward to seeing where this exciting opportunity of being a BHECN Scholar takes her in her future work.”