YOUNGSTOWN, Ohio – As a distinguished professor in Youngstown State University’s counseling program, Victoria Kress’ influence extends beyond the classroom, shaping the future of counseling while leading critical legislative reforms that benefit both counselors and the community.

With a career spanning over 30 years, Kress’ involvement in the American Counseling Association reflects her commitment to the profession. Serving on the ACA’s Governing Council, she is set to become its president in 2026. 

“This is a real peak moment for me,” said Kress, noting her long-standing passion for legislative advocacy. For nearly three decades, she has worked on legislative changes, including securing Medicare reimbursements for counselors, which opened up access to mental health services for older adults.

Her advocacy efforts also include securing positions for counselors in the Ohio Department of Corrections. However, it’s her advocacy for vulnerable populations, particularly children, that fuels much of her work. As the new ACA president-elect, these goals will remain at the forefront of her agenda, ensuring that counselors continue to serve and protect the most at-risk members of society.

“The most vulnerable in our society are children, and yet they often have the least voice and the fewest rights,” Kress said. “I want to spotlight child advocacy and ensure counselors are prepared to meet the needs of these at-risk populations.” 

She has worked with child sex trafficking victims and abused children in need of trauma care, further deepening her commitment to protecting the most vulnerable.

In addition to her advocacy work, Kress is a mentor. She has helped develop more than 10 emerging leader programs within various associations, which continue to serve as a bridge to leadership roles for young counselors. 

“What I’m most proud of is building systems to support others,” she said. “I want to create programs that persist and guide new counselors long after I’m gone.” Her approach to mentorship is grounded in creating sustainable structures – matching neophyte leaders with mentors, providing clear guidelines and ensuring ongoing support.

Kress’ dedication to leadership extends to her role at YSU. Her mentor, Jake Protivnak, a fellow distinguished professor at YSU, has been a strong supporter throughout her career.

“Jake has been such a champion of me,” Kress said. “He’s always been encouraging, and his support has been invaluable.” 

Kress also has a special connection to her students, whom she hopes to inspire with her own story of perseverance.

“I tell my students – I’m just a blue-collar girl from Cleveland who worked hard and had a vision,” she said. “It’s about persistence, grit and the support of people who believe in you.”

In addition to her work in counseling and advocacy, Kress has been involved in study-abroad programs, including a recent trip to Rwanda, where she worked with students in the region. This international experience reflects her broader view of the counseling profession and its impact across global communities.

As Kress prepares for her leadership role in the ACA, her focus remains on creating lasting change, whether through policy reform, mentorship or direct service.