NW Valley Times

GCU alumni are making a difference in Phoenix through their work with Terros Health. Brittany Dustin, a case manager coach, leads a team that includes several fellow Grand Canyon University graduates. They are dedicated to assisting individuals facing challenges such as mental illness, homelessness, and substance abuse.

Dustin shared the impact of fentanyl on the community, stating, "Fentanyl is ruining Arizona – the 'fentanyl funnel' – comes up from Mexico and it hits Phoenix. That’s what we deal with on the daily, the society problems that people don’t see or ignore."

The alumni, who have backgrounds in psychology, counseling, and social work, provide essential services at Terros Health clinics. Dustin explained, "What we do on a daily basis is literally helping people on their worst day. When you are SMI (serious mental illness), your worst day is every day."

Jacquelyn Dulaigh, another GCU alumna and case manager, emphasized the importance of self-care in their demanding line of work. "Are (clients) having a good day or a bad day?" she noted about the daily stresses they face.

Terros Health values the work ethic of GCU graduates. Heather Cepek, the manager of recruiting and human resources operations at Terros, said, "When we see GCU on a resume, we are going to assume they have great work ethic. They are usually dedicated."

The GCU alumni find their work rewarding, despite the challenges. Dustin reflected on the satisfaction of securing housing for clients, saying, "It’s hard work, but it’s rewarding."

MiKenna LaVenture, another GCU graduate, now works as a clinical coordinator at Terros Health. She applies the acceptance she learned at GCU to her work, emphasizing empathy and understanding in her interactions with clients and colleagues.

Dr. Sherman Elliott, Dean of the College of Social Sciences at GCU, praised the alumni's contributions: “We are very proud and grateful for our students in the helping professions as they play a crucial role in transforming the lives of individuals facing mental health challenges, substance use disorders and homelessness."

Grand Canyon University senior writer Mike Kilen can be contacted at [email protected]