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University of Phoenix Welcomes Yurandol Thompson as New Associate Dean of Counseling

The University of Phoenix has officially announced the appointment of Dr. Yurandol Thompson, Ph.D., LPC, as the new Associate Dean of Counseling, effective January 29th, 2026. With a wealth of experience and a deep commitment to promoting academic quality, Dr. Thompson is poised to make significant contributions to the university's Counseling programs.

Strong Leadership Background

Dr. Thompson previously held the role of Clinical Program Chair for the Clinical Mental Health Counseling Program at the University of Phoenix. Over her career, she has honed her leadership skills, bringing over a decade of clinical experience to the table alongside her expertise in program quality. This background has prepared her well for her new responsibilities, where she will collaborate with program chairs and coordinators to ensure seamless integration of operations, accreditation processes, and faculty support.

“In her role as Associate Dean, Yurandol Thompson exemplifies the qualities we need to drive our Counseling programs forward,” stated Sheila Babendir, Ed.D., LPC, who serves as the dean of the College of Social and Behavioral Sciences. “She possesses a keen understanding of both clinical and academic foundations crucial for our success.”

Commitment to Program Excellence

Since joining the University of Phoenix in 2019, Dr. Thompson has actively worked to improve Counseling program operations. Her initiatives have concentrated on enhancing clinical training and supporting CACREP accreditation efforts, ensuring that the curriculum stays aligned with evolving best practices in the field. Among her significant contributions, she has led a comprehensive revision of clinical courses, enabling a more cohesive alignment with accreditation standards, thus enriching the student learning experience.

Moreover, Dr. Thompson implemented the course lead model, enhancing instructional consistency across various courses and fostering collaboration amongst faculty. She also initiated CEU training for site supervisors, further promoting high-quality clinical experiences for students. Through these initiatives, Dr. Thompson epitomizes thoughtful decision-making and sustainable practices that prioritize student success and faculty engagement.

A Vision for the Future

“I am deeply honored to accept this role and excited about the opportunity to work alongside our dedicated faculty, staff, and leadership teams,” said Dr. Thompson. “Our priority remains focused on creating learning environments conducive to both personal and intellectual growth. The trust our students place in us as they embark on their professional journeys is a responsibility I take seriously.”

Dr. Thompson's educational background includes her undergraduate studies in psychology from the University of Maryland University College, a Master of Arts in professional counseling from the Georgia Professional School of Psychology at Argosy University Atlanta, and a Doctor of Philosophy in counselor education and supervision from Walden University. As a licensed professional counselor in Georgia and Virginia, and a national certified counselor, Dr. Thompson brings a combination of academic rigor and practical experience to the role.

About the University of Phoenix

The University of Phoenix continually adapts its offerings to meet the demands of an ever-evolving workforce. With a focus on flexible schedules, relevant courses, and a skills-mapped curriculum, the institution supports working adults in achieving their career aspirations and personal goals.

As Dr. Thompson steps into this pivotal role, the University of Phoenix is set to bolster its Counseling programs, ensuring students receive the quality education needed to thrive in their future careers. For additional information about the College of Social and Behavioral Sciences, visit the University of Phoenix website.