Niagara University School Psychology Graduate Student Publishes Article in National E-Journal

Niagara University school psychology graduate student Audrey Ricotta, '23, a mental health technician in the Air Force Reserve, shared her unique experience and perspective in the November 2025 issue of Communiqué, published by the National Association of School Psychologists as the premiere source of news and information relevant to daily practice, trends, and innovations in the field.

In her article, "Recognizing Veterans and Military Service Members in School Psychology," Ricotta notes that military personnel have specialized skills, such as cultural competencies, resilience, and adaptability, which make them particularly well-suited for positions as school psychologists. In addition, "they represent a population of students and families with highly unique experiences that civilian practitioners may not fully understand," she writes.

Ricotta also draws parallels between the two professions, including the fact both are process-oriented, collaborative, and require excellent time management, critical thinking, and interpersonal communication skills, as well as the ability to make informed decisions and motivate others.

The Niagara County resident first aspired to a career as a school psychologist after working as a direct support professional for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities at Heritage Christian Services and completing a practicum at the Child Advocacy Center of Niagara during her undergraduate studies in psychology and sociology at NU.

"Those experiences helped me recognize my passion for caregiving and supporting children and families," she said.

Ricotta credits the university's Veterans Services Office with helping her obtain GI Bill benefits during her first year of graduate school, noting that the staff was "incredibly helpful with the financial aspects of being a veteran student," and with helping her connect with her peers.

Ricotta adds that she has had supportive and inspiring faculty throughout both her undergraduate and graduate experiences at NU, and that she has been encouraged to engage in research and publication opportunities.

"I'm very grateful to be part of a program that fosters both professional and personal growth," she said.