Dr. Jenna Hardersen

• Instructor for Professional School Counseling

Dr. Jenna Hardersen has served as a school counselor for over 13 years, working at both the middle school and high school levels. In addition to her counseling role, she coaches middle school volleyball and track and teaches as an adjunct professor for Buena Vista University in the Professional School Counseling Program. She earned her Bachelor’s degree in Child, Adult, and Family Services from Iowa State University, her Master’s in Professional School Counseling from the University of Northern Iowa, a second Master’s in Educational Administration from Northwestern College, and her Doctorate in Educational Leadership from Drake University. Dr. Hardersen’s doctoral research focused on growth mindset—specifically, how teaching students to persevere through challenges and focus on personal growth supports their overall success. She has led numerous professional development sessions for staff on topics including self-care, mental health wellness, and supporting colleagues.