Clemson graduate student JD Evans receives South Carolina Counseling Association Humanitarian Award

Jadarius “JD” Evans, a graduate student in the Counselor Education program at Clemson University, has been awarded the South Carolina Counseling Association (SCCA) Humanitarian Award. Evans received the award last month during the SCCA’s annual conference, where he was honored for his contributions to the counseling profession, academic excellence and a commitment to advocacy and service.

“We congratulate JD on this wonderful achievement. His research, paired with his leadership in the academic setting, underscores his potential as a future leader in the counseling field,” Kristen Cuthrell, chair of the Department of Education and Human Development in Clemson’s College of Education.

JD has earned widespread recognition for his focus on domestic violence within Black families, particularly its impact on children. His clinical practice and research emphasize mental health advocacy, and he has been a lead researcher on a National Board for Certified Counselors-sponsored project studying rising suicide rates among Black men and boys. His work has also been featured in Counseling Today.

Beyond his academic achievements, he has gained extensive hands-on experience through many internships where he has provided counseling, facilitated group therapy and worked with survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault.

“JD embodies a quiet confidence grounded in humility that creates a sense of safety in the counseling process,” said Craig S. Cashwell, professor in Clemson’s Counselor Education program and the author of JD’s award nomination. “He is deeply respected by faculty and peers alike, and I have no doubt he will continue to be a transformative leader in the field.”

Evans is on track to graduate this May with a master’s in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. He plans to pursue a Ph.D. in Counselor Education and Supervision to become an educator and supervisor.