Tonya J Balch

Tonya J. Balch is a Professor in the Department of Applied Clinical and Educational Sciences at the Bayh College of Education, Indiana State University. She holds a Ph.D. in Educational Administration from the same institution and is actively engaged in teaching, research, and administrative leadership, currently serving as Interim Director since August 2024. Her work bridges counselor education, school leadership, and systemic student support.

Dr. Balch earned her academic degrees from Indiana State University: Ph.D. in Educational Administration (2008), M.A. in School Counseling (2001), and B.S. in Physics (1989). Her educational background reflects a unique interdisciplinary foundation that informs her holistic approach to student development and educational leadership.

Her research and professional interests center on school counseling, educational leadership, Professional Development Schools (PDS), student mental health, dropout prevention, and trauma-informed practices. She emphasizes collaboration between counselors and administrators, advocating for systemic models that support student wellness and academic success. Her work often integrates social justice, advocacy, and intercultural competence into educational frameworks.

The recent publications and presentations highlight a consistent focus on team-based approaches in schools, transitions, mental health integration, and counselor preparation. The articles reflect a trajectory from foundational work on counseling skills and leadership to contemporary issues like anxiety, grief, and equity in student support systems.

• Provost’s Award for Excellence in Student Learning Assessment and Improvement (2023)
• Holmstedt Distinguished Professorship (2016)
• Indiana Counseling Association President's Award (2013)
• Exemplary Counselor Educator (2011)
• Trailblazer Award (2009)
• Distinguished Service Award (2006)

Dr. Balch has been instrumental in securing major grants, including a $200,000 Lilly Endowment grant to enhance school counselor preparation and a $20,000 planning grant for comprehensive counseling initiatives. She has advised and consulted with numerous school districts and organizations, including the Indiana Youth Institute, Vigo County School Corporation, and Greencastle School Corporation. Her service extends to university committees, community boards, and national professional associations, reflecting a deep commitment to educational improvement and student well-being.

She is actively involved in professional development through presentations at national conferences such as NAPDS and ATE, and she contributes to public scholarship via blog posts and technical reports. Her leadership in Counselor Day on Campus and other initiatives underscores her dedication to building strong educational communities.