Following in her mother’s footsteps, May 8, 2020 graduate, Jasmine Garland McKinney states that she wants to carry on the legacy that her mother left behind as a counselor in Nash County. Now, as a mom herself, her desire is to become an expert on maternal mental health in Black communities. With involvement in multiple facets of the ECU community, Jasmine notes that she has had many positive experiences from studying abroad last summer to assisting Dr. Avent Harris on research studies on topics of African American mental health, religious coping and help seeking behaviors.

However, her appointment to the CARE COACH position at Pines Elementary for the 2019-2020 school year has made such an impact for not only her students, but the school’s community stakeholders. The support of the REI team has been immeasurable from weekly meetings with her internship supervisor, Dr. Crumb to the implementation of the Bounce Back Program and much more.

When asked what ECU/REI means to you regarding rural areas, she responded, “REI has broadened my horizons and exposed me to a different population than I ever saw myself working with. I originally could not see myself at the elementary level, but I love it now! REI provides resources to rural communities and their schools, and also increases access to services across rural, eastern North Carolina. By bridging the gap and providing communities with necessary resources such as professional development opportunities and access to mental health providers, REI is truly making a difference in the lives of children and their families. I have been adamant that my professional work will impact the communities that I know and love. The work that I’ve done through REI and at PES has allowed me to do just that!”.