Christopher Hanes was named the director of Student Counseling Services (SCS) at Iowa State on Monday. Hanes currently serves as the associate director at the University of Cincinnati Counseling and Psychological Services.

In an open forum before being selected, Hanes stated that he planned to reform SCS and integrate it with an interactive community. In order to ensure SCS complies with ethical and legal matters, Hanes will report to Erin Baldwin, the assistant vice principal for Student Health and Wellness, according to the press release.

According to a press release, Baldwin said she looks forward to Hanes utilizing his leadership skills to support the wellbeing of the students.

“I look forward to supporting Chris as he strengthens partnerships within the unit and across campus,” Baldwin said in a press release. “His innovative, student-centered vision, in combination with our talented student counseling team, paves the way for the advancement of counseling services at Iowa State University.”

Hanes earned his doctorate of philosophy from Indiana University-Bloomington in counseling psychology.

“I am deeply honored for this opportunity to join Iowa State University and the Division of Student Affairs as director of Student Counseling Services,” Hanes said in a press release. “I strongly believe in the mission of the university in promoting a healthy campus through student-centered services. I look forward to being an active member in the health and wellness unit and a visible leader within Student Counseling Services. The SCS team brings tremendous strengths and dedication to their work and I can’t wait to join them in supporting our university community.”

Hanes will begin his new position July 1.