J. Frederick Bland

J. Frederick Bland is an Associate Professor of Counseling at Spring Arbor University (SAU), where he has served as full-time faculty for 18 years. He also held positions at Baker College and the University of Detroit Mercy. He holds a Doctor of Philosophy in Counselor Education from Western Michigan University, emphasizing school counseling. His research focuses on LGBTQ+ student advocacy, educational equity, African American male achievement, and mental health within religious contexts.

He is actively involved in campus and community initiatives, including advising the Spring Arbor University Gospel Choir, leading the Diversity & Inclusion Advisory Council (DIAC), and serving on Detroit’s Safe Schools Initiative. Notable awards include the Chi Sigma Iota Outstanding Supervisor Award (2015) and the Highland Park Community High School Hall of Fame (2011).

His academic work integrates Christian faith with counseling practices. Beyond academia, he mentors students, composes music, and advocates for diversity through programs like the F.A.M.I.L.Y. Mentoring Project and the My Brothers Keeper initiative.