Dr. Mari Keller has been a school counselor for eight years, working at the elementary, middle, and high school levels. During her tenure at Independence High School, Dr. Keller developed programs specifically for student-athletes. She created the Leadership Academy, where student-athletes enhance their leadership skills as captains and learn to lead their teammates and communities. The program started with 13 students and grew to 36 students in the following school year. Dr. Keller has also presented to mental health professionals about the importance of leadership and the qualities required to be a successful student-athlete.

 

In addition, she is the founder of Academy IV Champions, a business dedicated to supporting students, athletes, and families in college readiness and mindful sports performance. Over the past five years, she has engaged with numerous families on the significance of college readiness, mindful sports performance, and leadership philosophy. Dr. Keller has also taught college courses in Addiction Counseling, Play Therapy, and Ethics in Counseling. Her research focuses on social justice within the field of school counseling in Title I settings.

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