George M. and Barbara E. Gazda Counseling Scholarship
At a Glance
Eligibility: Awarded to undergraduate and graduate students
Major: Counseling psychology
Department: Counseling and Human Development Services
How to apply: There is no formal application process for this fund. Eligible students will apply by responding to the CHDS Program Coordinator’s call for applicants at the appropriate time each academic year.
Contact us: jthrock@uga.edu
Fund Purpose
The purpose of this fund is to provide an annual scholarship to a deserving student in the Department of Counseling and Human Development Services.About the Donor
George Michael Gazda dedicated more than three decades to the University of Georgia’s College of Education, where he helped shape the field of counseling and mentor generations of students. He joined UGA in 1963 and served as a professor, research professor, and research professor emeritus, as well as associate dean for research from 1984-1994.
A pioneering scholar and educator, Gazda co-founded UGA’s counseling psychology program and served as its first training director, guiding the program toward accreditation by the American Psychological Association. His commitment to research, teaching, and mentorship earned him numerous honors, including the College of Education’s Distinguished Research Professor Award and the American Counseling Association’s inaugural Distinguished Mentor Award.
George’s connection to the College was shared by his first wife, Barbara Boyd Gazda. Barbara began her studies at UGA in 1963, the same year George joined the College of Education. She earned her Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education in 1968 and her Master of Education in Library Education in 1979. Together, George and Barbara shared a deep connection to the College, both as educators and as lifelong members of the UGA community.
Through their connection to the College of Education, George and Barbara touched the lives of students and educators in lasting ways. George’s dedication to mentorship, research, and service, together with Barbara’s commitment to education, reflects a shared legacy of learning and service that continues to inspire future generations at UGA.