For excellence in leading the University of Nebraska–Lincoln’s Counseling and Psychological Services team, Tricia Besett-Alsech received a Kudos award from the NU Board of Regents.
The honor, presented at the Board's Dec. 6 meeting, recognizes university staff members who go above and beyond in serving the university and its community.
Besett-Alsech has been part of the CAPS team since 2000 and has served as its director for six years. In this role, she leads a 20-person team of clinicians and support staff who provide mental health services to students. The team also offers crisis intervention, workshops, and specialized programs on suicide prevention, disordered eating, and substance misuse.
In the 2023-24 academic year, the CAPS team conducted nearly 10,000 sessions. The staff manage a higher client load than private practitioners and handle more complex cases—factors that can contribute to burnout and challenges in staffing.
To address these challenges, Besett-Alsech has introduced a career ladder that provides opportunities for career advancement within the team, motivating new applicants. Other initiatives under her leadership include expanding access to telehealth appointments and launching a 24-hour crisis hotline.
These changes are positively impacting University of Nebraska–Lincoln students. According to a national benchmarking survey, Nebraska students report similar levels of depression, anxiety, and distress as their peers. However, students who have worked with CAPS report significantly improved outcomes, including reduced depression, stress, and anxiety, compared to national averages.
“This is a powerful testament to Tricia’s dedication to providing the best for UNL students,” said Dee Dee Anderson, vice chancellor for student life. “She and her team embody our core tenet that every person and every interaction matters.”
“We salute Tricia and her team for their hard work and for making a difference in the lives of our students.”
