Craig Holch M '19
Deferred Bequest to Assist USJ Students

After a career of starting and owning various businesses, and early retirement at 41, Craig decided to pursue a master's degree in clinical mental health at the University of Saint Joseph. Our counseling program was known for its excellent reputation, small class size, and holistic approach to mental health which focused on all aspects of a person's life. Craig was honored to be named Graduate Student of the Year by the Connecticut Counseling Association in 2018. After graduating from USJ, Craig became a middle school clinical mental health counselor. He clearly remembers his students' struggles during the COVID-19 pandemic, when they were suddenly dealing with social isolation and depression along with more common mental health issues experienced during adolescence. Craig acknowledges a lack of diversity in the clinical mental health counselor field, which he feels needs to be addressed. He understands the financial challenges to obtaining an advanced degree, and believes that students need help to avoid excessive debt. In light of these concerns, Craig has set up a deferred scholarship fund at the University of Saint Joseph which will be endowed from the proceeds of his bequest. This scholarship will be awarded annually to a student who has the potential to make a contribution to the counseling profession, with the goal of diversifying the profession and giving USJ students the resources to be successful.