Petition to Save Rare Graduate Student from Academic Dismissal

Let me tell you a little about BB, an excellent clinician who has spent 8 years of her life and 6-figures of student debt on becoming the best psychologist possible. BB is an excellent student and intern, currently practicing at one of the largest agencies for serving individuals with autism. BB is passionate about serving this community, which can be seen in her kindness with clients and families, stellar service delivery, and unique clinical strengths related to autism and deaf culture.

In 2013, BB's parents, both deaf, were laid off from their jobs. As a result, BB took a 1 year leave of absence from her school in order to work full-time and save their home. BB did whatever it took to care for her family. Despite her excellent grades, rave reviews from internship supervisors, and unique skills in being able to provide mental health services to individuals in the deaf community, she has reached her 8 year time limit for graduating with her doctorate in clinical psychology (PsyD).

This is BB's only blemish on an otherwise stellar academic career. More importantly, BB cares deeply about undeserved populations, particularly the autism and deaf communities. She has been working for free in internships across the past 4 years to pay her dues and gain experience. She is LITERALLY at the finish line of her degree!! This is thankless work she gives for communities she cares about. She is CURRENTLY making the world a better place!

Unfortunately, her school has refused to reinstate her after an initial hearing and a 2nd appeal. This is not a fault of the schools entirely. BB did not submit a request for extension by the schools deadline, which is what has pushed it along this far. However, her school considers her 1 year leave as part of her 8 years. This is not an attack on her school. Academic policy, ethics, and integrity are crucial for our field. However, it isonly up to the Provost to reinstate BB at this point.

I kindly request your signature on this petition! If you are a person or parent of an individual with autism who ever had that ONE excellent tutor, BB is that tutor! If you are deaf or hard of hearing, or have family who are, BB is making a life out of helping your community! If you have ever sought out mental health treatment and found that one special clinician who made a difference for you, BB is that kind of professional. If you simply empathize with this poor girl's stressful ordeal and believe in 2nd chances, please sign!

Show this Provost just how valued BB is to this harsh world. She has SO MUCH work left to do as an awesome clinician in the autism and deaf communities!