Matthew Mims

Matthew Mims is a Professor at the University of Nebraska at Kearney (UNK) since 2007, specializing in the Department of Counseling, School Psychology and Family Science. He teaches courses such as Organization and Practice in School Counseling and Career Counseling while supervising student internships. His work focuses on marginalized groups, including LGBTQ+ communities and international students, with a commitment to fostering inclusive environments through advocacy and education.

Education:

• Bachelor’s in History and Education from Alma College (Michigan)
• Master’s in Counseling and College Student Personnel from Western Illinois University
• Doctorate in Counselor Education from the University of South Dakota (USD)

Research interests span LGBTQ+ advocacy, global education, international student refugees, and culturally responsive counseling practices. He actively promotes diversity through initiatives like Safe Zone Trainings at UNK and advises the Queer Straight Alliance student organization. Mims has held roles including Hall Director at Ball State University, Assistant Director of Residential Life at USD, and Adjunct Professor at USD before joining UNK.

Personal life includes marriage to Grace Mims, a UNK professor and Department Chair of Counseling and School Psychology. They met at Western Illinois University while working as hall directors and pursuing graduate studies. Mims is passionate about supporting his son Griffin’s involvement in orchestra, theater, speech, and soccer. He also contributes to professional organizations, serving as Midwest Chair of the American Counseling Association and a member of the Nebraska Counseling Association.

His career includes international experiences as Orientation and Activities Coordinator for Middlesex University in London (three summers, including his honeymoon with 80 students), and travel to Japan, Korea, and China. Mims emphasizes empowering students to overcome challenges and advocates for systemic change to strengthen Nebraska communities.