Rhoni Maxwell-Rader

Dr. Rhoni Maxwell-Rader is a Professor in the Department of Psychology at Shawnee State University (SSU), within the College of Arts and Sciences. She has served as Coordinator of the Psychology Internship Program (2007–present) and directed the SSU Honors Program (2010–2014). Her academic background includes a Ph.D. in Counseling (Ohio University, 2004), an M.Ed. in College Student Personnel (1993), and a B.S. in Organization Communication (1989).

Her research interests span diverse areas, including death education and counseling as her primary focus, alongside clinical and developmental psychology. She explores personality psychology, women’s issues, health psychology, and career counseling, emphasizing practical applications in education and community service. Her presentations highlight interdisciplinary approaches to challenges in academia and public health.

Dr. Rader has been honored as an SSU Outstanding Mentor (2012) and nominated for prestigious teaching awards. Her service activities include leadership roles in academic committees and community organizations like the Portsmouth Area Ladies (PALS), the Counseling Center’s Celebrity Chef fundraiser, and the Dorothy Knost Children’s Summer Music Workshop. She also volunteers with the Cornerstone UMC Praise Team, the Great Dames book club, and the local American Red Cross.

As a dedicated educator, she has coordinated psychology majors, advised the First-Year Experience, and contributed to institutional research on student retention. Her grant-writing experience (2008–2013) supports community arts initiatives through roles in the Southern Ohio Performing Arts Association, where she currently serves as President.