Dr. Mark Schwarze, associate professor and program director of the Master of Arts in clinical mental health counseling program at Appalachian State University, has been named the recipient of the 2026 Leadership Excellence for Counselors by Counselors Award by the National Board for Certified Counselors (NBCC) Foundation. This prestigious national honor recognizes one counseling professional each year who demonstrates exceptional leadership, strengthens the profession, and promotes equity through ethics, education, and advocacy.
“I am deeply honored to receive this recognition from NBCC,” said Schwarze. “This award reflects the collective efforts of colleagues, students, and leaders across our profession who are committed to ethical practice, meaningful access to care, and the continued growth of counseling.”
“I am grateful to be part of a community that is dedicated to supporting both counselors and the clients we serve,” he added.
The NBCC awards were created for counselors, by counselors, to recognize individuals who exemplify professional excellence in counseling and whose contributions have significantly helped to expand access to mental health services, strengthen the profession, support counselor education, and advance counseling and counselors domestically and globally.
Dr. Schwarze was selected for his outstanding leadership and service, particularly through his work with the North Carolina Board for Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselors, where he served as Chair for two years. In this role, he contributed to strengthening licensure standards, protecting the public, and supporting the counseling workforce across the state. His leadership also extends to his role at Appalachian State University, where he prepares and mentors future counselors while advancing innovative and ethical practices in counselor education.
One of his nominations noted that, “Dr. Schwarze's leadership has directly strengthened professional preparation, protected the public, and supported the counseling workforce that will continue to shape the profession for years to come, ensuring the profession's continued growth, sustainability, and relevance in meeting the needs of North Carolinians."
Only one recipient nationwide was selected for this award in 2026, underscoring the significance of Dr. Schwarze’s contributions to the field.
The National Board for Certified Counselors, Inc. and Affiliates (NBCC) is the premier credentialing body for counselors, ensuring that those who become nationally certified have achieved the highest standards of practice through education, examination, supervision, experience, and adherence to ethical guidelines. Established as an independent, not-for-profit certification organization in 1982, NBCC has expanded its mission globally. Today, there are more than 71,000 National Certified Counselors (NCCs) across more than 40 countries.
Person in black suit holding glass award.
