Her Story
About Cecillia W.
Cecillia W. Erlund is a distinguished educator, counselor, and professor whose career in education spans more than six decades. Since beginning her educational journey in 1965, she has devoted her life to teaching, mentoring, and preparing future generations of professionals. For the past 42 years, she has served at the University of Mary Hardin-Baylor, where she currently teaches undergraduate psychology courses, including writing in psychology and advanced junior- and senior-level classes. Earlier in her career, Dr. Erlund worked in special education, directed that program for six years, and later founded the university's graduate counseling program, which she led and taught in for 23 years, helping prepare students for careers as Licensed Professional Counselors and Marriage and Family Therapists. Her commitment to adapting education to meet changing times is reflected in her emphasis on teaching students to thoughtfully leverage emerging technologies, including artificial intelligence, as tools for learning and professional growth.
A lifelong learner, Dr. Erlund has built an impressive academic foundation that includes a bachelor's degree in education, a master's degree in counseling, and a Doctor of Education in Educational Leadership. She also earned a Master of Divinity from Cedars of Lebanon Bible College and Theological Seminary in 2025 and is currently pursuing certification as a Mind Movies Coach, blending positive psychology, coaching, and counseling to further empower individuals. Beyond academia, she successfully owned and operated a limousine business for 22 years while maintaining her full-time responsibilities as a university professor, demonstrating exceptional entrepreneurial spirit and dedication. Her contributions have been recognized with numerous honors, including a university-wide Research Award selected by her colleagues, consecutive terms as President of the Faculty Assembly—where she led the rewriting of the institution's constitution and bylaws—recognition in Who's Who in America (2007), and a national leadership award honoring women in education.
Faith, service, and lifelong growth remain the cornerstones of Dr. Erlund's life and leadership. She has served for many years as an administrator and lay representative within the Global Methodist Church, where her ministry continues to influence both her professional and personal life. She credits her success to God's guidance, the enduring example of her parents, and a willingness to remain flexible in the face of change while staying focused on her purpose. Whether teaching, counseling, mentoring, writing, or coaching, Dr. Erlund is passionate about helping others discover their potential and pursue their dreams with confidence. Her enduring legacy is one of servant leadership, innovation, resilience, and an unwavering commitment to educating and empowering others.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Cecillia W.
01What do you attribute your success to?
Focusing on what my responsibilities were, being flexible, adapting to change, knowing that change is coming, not to avoid it. For example, teaching students how to use artificial intelligence instead of avoiding it.
02What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
Focus on what their dream is, what they think they can do. Avoid becoming trapped in thinking they can't do it because they aren't somebody else or excuses that people make up. Focus on whatever your dream is taking you to, and concentrate on getting it done. Once you get committed to it, the things that you need to create it will come to you.
03What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
Faith and spiritual beliefs from my church, the Global Methodist Church, which are core to how I do everything.
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