On Mon., Nov. 4, 2024, during the Minnesota School Counselor Association Annual Conference in Duluth, MN, Jennifer Fingarson, Big Lake High School Counselor, was named Minnesota’s High School Counselor of the Year.
The award recognizes members of the MSCA who have demonstrated awareness and knowledge of the American School Counselors Association National Model and who have driven innovation, modeled leadership, advocacy, and collaboration in their work, and have promoted equity and access to opportunities for all students.
A Big Surprise
Fingarson was not aware that her colleagues had nominated her for the award, so when she received an email near the end of October from someone in the Communications Department at the MSCA requesting a picture of herself, she was puzzled. Fingarson thought it might be for a directory, but sent a reply asking them to clarify why a picture was needed. It was in their response that she discovered she had won the award. She was informed that they needed the picture for the presentation that was to come. They were surprised that no one had notified her that she had won back in September. Fingarson was also told that her fellow counselors Renae Fischer and Morgan Penner had nominated her.
When Fingarson asked Fischer and Penner about the nomination they told her that they had sent in the paperwork, but did not hear anything more about it. They both assumed that someone else had won. They were ecstatic when Fingarson told them that the 2024 MN HS Counselor of the Year was her.
Receiving the Award
Fischer and Penner both joined Fingarson at the conference and were present when she received her award. They were also joined by BL High School Principal Bob Dockendorf. In her acceptance speech, Fingarson, recognized each of them.
“I’d like to extend my deepest appreciation to my colleagues and mentors,” she said. “I have known some of you since graduate school. Your support, guidance, and friendship have shaped my experience in ways I cannot fully express. It is in our collaboration and shared passion that we find strength. You all inspire me, and I am grateful to work alongside such talented individuals who put their hearts into their work.”
Fingarson also recognized the students she has served for 33 years.
“Their resilience and determination are the reason I have stayed in this profession for so long,” she said. “Their stories fuel my commitment, and their successes are often reached by overcoming significant challenges. I think we would all agree that the kids truly are our inspiration.”
She also thanked the selection committee, admitting how humbling the experience was and why it is important to recognize the work that counselors do.
“This award is a reminder of the importance of our work,” Fingarson said. “Counseling requires empathy, patience, and an unwavering belief in the potential of every individual. And let’s face it, sometimes it is a really tough job. We work with people who are in progress with brains not fully formed. Together, we create safe spaces for growth, healing, and self-discovery. We advocate for kids and families who may feel unheard, and we try our best to empower those who may feel powerless. When our efforts are successful, there comes great job satisfaction in this industry of helping the human condition.”
The Road Traveled
Fingarson’s mother wants everyone to know that she is from Fairmont. Fingarson’s parents still reside there. Fingarson has not forgotten where she has come from and where she has been. She is grateful for the five years she spent in Royalton teaching English and coaching track and field. She left to teach English in Big Lake for two years before earning her Master’s degree in Psychology and School Counseling. She has been in the counselor’s office since fall of 1999.
