top of page
Image by Giammarco Boscaro

Hello!
I'm Steve.

Home

Bio

The Short of it

After High School, I joined the Army National Guard and volunteered for several deployments. After serving 12 years of Honorable service with 3-tours, I decided to attempt my educational aspirations. I bounced around several small colleges and decided to find something that comfortably fit my developing ideas. During my undergraduate studies, I spent time in the wilderness and attempted to combine wildlife, adventure, and psychotherapy. After a unique internship, I was invigorated with a passion for pursuing dual Masters degrees seeking this time to combine Theology with Psychotherapy. From thence, I became an analyst in formation with the Clinical College of Colorado and an Ordained Minister in the United Church of Christ (UCC).

I earned my Ph.D. at North Dakota State University in Counselor Education and Supervision in 2024. I am currently a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), a member of the Association for Clinical Pastoral Education (ACPE) and the American Counseling Association (ACA).

I believe we are called to care for and hear our fellow humans' plights on this Earth. Therefore, I work to listen to the still, speaking voices of the world. I chose the UCC because it is a denomination open to individual interpretation and discovery, not unlike analysis and psychoanalytic theory. Analysis is a very free form of speaking, and it opens up more significant potential to be heard and to listen. I encourage everyone to speak freely and be open to the opportunities that arise from their unique circumstances on their life journeys.

Image by Saskia van Manen
Home: About Me
The Hood

Education

My Studies

Doctorate in Philosophy
North Dakota State University

August 2020 - May 2024

I earned my Ph.D. in Counselor Education and Supervision from North Dakota State University's College of Health and Human Services in 2024. The program was CACREP accredited. During my doctoral studies, I served as a Graduate Assistant within the department as the Clinical Supervisor from 2021 to 2024. In this role, I co-taught one section of CNED-794, providing direct supervision to the students in my section and assisting faculty with clinical labs.

My dissertation, titled "Embarking on the Analytical Odyssey: A Phenomenological Exploration of the Psychoanalytic Journey of Formation," was completed under the guidance of my advisor, Dr. Jodi L. Tangen, Ph.D.

​

​

Graduate Certificate
Idaho State University

May 2023 - August 2023

The ISU AAI certificate curriculum taught best practices modeling collaboration with international leaders in animal-assisted interventions (AAI). Each class offered theoretical knowledge and applied skills, heavily emphasizing provider competence, animal welfare/advocacy, and practical efficacy. Although the curriculum’s primary focus was on Animal Assisted Therapy (AAT) and Animal Assisted Education (AAE) as professionalized approaches, faculty gave attention to issues relevant to the delivery and direction of Animal Assisted Activities (AAA) within healthcare and educational contexts. Faculty also provided opportunities for live supervision.

​

​

Psychoanalytic,
Clinical College of Colorado

2018 - 2023

This continuing education in Psychoanalytic theory is conducted in workshops and seminars to enhance clinical practice. The program consists of theoretical seminars, clinical workshops, and an international seminar with a Lacanian institution in Colorado. The Clinical College is inscribed in the Lacanian Fields' global network (www.champlacanien.net) and responds to the local community's increasing interest via a semi-formal program of study in Lacanian analysis. Program faculty are local and international and integrated with colleagues of the Lacanian Field.
 

MA Counseling
Eastern Mennonite University

September 2018 - May 2019

The Master of Arts in Counseling degree afforded me an education in professional mental health counseling. During this program, I began psychoanalysis and took electives in psychodynamic fields. I also pursued continuing education in ethics and psychoanalysis. At the same time, I was serving a local church as Pastor and Pastoral Care adviser. I also pursued additional training in suicide awareness and prevention, mental health first aid, and MBTI personality types.
​

MDiv Theology
Eastern Mennonite Seminary

September 2015 - May 2018

The Master of Divinity was a comprehensive preparation program for Christian ministry. It developed leadership for an extensive range of roles within a Church and broad knowledge of Christian churches' faith, traditions, and practices. I studied a vast assortment of theological and philosophical disciplines, which was required for my Ordination. I also took the opportunity to study abroad in the Aegean and enhance my education by adding a Clinical Pastoral component to my portfolio.

 

BA Self-Design
Sterling College

January 2012 - May 2014

This major integrates experiential education with a focus on therapeutic applications specific to the purpose of utilizing counseling techniques in conjunction with current experiential education practices. This focused educational plan increased my understanding of the correlating effects of therapeutic play, adventure as therapy, and the natural world as a counseling medium for troubled youth, people with disabilities, and Veterans. The minor concentration added value to these studies through the lens of agriculture and enhanced my understanding of equine therapies which has fostered a passion to research Farming and Equine Agriculture Therapies (FEAT) for Veterans.

​

​

Home: Education
Home: Experience

Heading 1

SRG

Teaching Experience

North Dakota State University
Fargo, ND
Instructor, Graduate Courses     

August 2020 - May 2024

​

  • Co-taught the Internship graduate course, integrating real-world experiences with academic learning for students in Spring 2023.

  • Facilitated the Practicum course repeatedly across multiple semesters, including Spring 2024, Fall 2023, Spring 2023, Spring 2022, and served as a Teaching Assistant in Fall 2021.

  • Acted as a Lab facilitator for the Group Counseling course over three consecutive fall terms (2021-2023), enhancing students' practical counseling skills in a group setting.

  • Delivered lab facilitation for the Techniques course, helping graduate students to refine counseling methods in Fall 2022 and Fall 2021.

  • Instructed Counseling Theory with an emphasis on psychoanalytic content in Fall 2021, deepening students' understanding of foundational counseling concepts.

  • Guest lectured on Religious Oppression in the Advanced Multicultural Practice in Counselor Education and Supervision course during Spring 2023, enriching the curriculum with specialized knowledge.

  • Contributed a special topic lecture on Counselor Identity in the Leadership and Advocacy in Counselor Education course in Fall 2022, promoting professional development and self-awareness among future counselors.

North Dakota State University Fargo, ND
Clinic Supervisor
Graduate Teaching Assistant 

August 2021 - May 2024

  • Serve as a part-time Clinic Supervisor at NDSU Community Counseling Services since 2021, overseeing clinical operations and ensuring the delivery of quality counseling services.

  • Fulfill the role of Graduate Teaching Assistant at North Dakota State University, Fargo, ND, contributing to the academic development of graduate students in counseling.

  • Supervised 10 graduate students in a group setting for the Internship course in Spring 2023, facilitating their practical learning and professional growth.

  • Guided graduate students through the Practicum course, managing both group and individual supervision sessions across multiple semesters, with a notable increase in individual supervision from 1 in Spring 2022 to 6 in Fall 2023.

  • Mentored groups of 6 to 9 students in the Group Counseling course over three fall terms (2021-2023), honing their abilities to facilitate therapeutic group sessions.

  • Led 3 to 5 students in the Techniques course as a lab facilitator in Fall 2022 and Fall 2021, sharpening their counseling techniques and intervention strategies.

Sterling College
Craftsbury Common, VT
Instructor
Undergraduate Courses

 

January 2012 - May  2014

  • Advised and coached the Orientation Club, enhancing student skills in orientation and land navigation techniques during Spring 2014 and Fall 2013.

  • Served as a Teaching Assistant for the undergraduate course in Orientation/Land Navigation Techniques, contributing to the development of students' practical skills from Spring 2011 to Spring 2013.

  • Led the Firearm Safety course as an advisor and coach for the Shooting Sports Team, promoting responsible handling and safety measures in Spring 2014 and Fall 2013.

  • Co-taught 'A Sense of Place', an undergraduate course focused on environmental awareness and connection to the local ecosystem, in Spring 2014 and Fall 2013, and supported as a Teaching Assistant in Spring 2012.

  • Co-instructed the Wilderness First Responder course in Spring 2014, equipping students with critical emergency response skills in remote environments.

Clinical Experience

North Dakota State University
University Counseling Center
Fargo, ND
Counselor

2024 - Present

  • Provide individual and group counseling to university students addressing personal, academic, and career concerns.

  • Offer consultation services to faculty and staff.

  • Develop and deliver mental health outreach programs.

  • Supervise counseling practicum/intern students.

  • Participate in on-call duty rotation and university committees.

Y-Knot Psychotherapy, PLLC
Fargo, ND
Psychoanalyst
Private Practice

2024 - Present

  • Experienced psychoanalyst offering psychotherapy services based on the theories of Sigmund Freud and Jacques Lacan

  • Provides a reflective, non-judgmental space for clients to gain deep self-insight and develop personalized coping strategies

  • Guides individuals, couples, and families on their unique therapeutic journeys to achieve personal growth, healing, and fulfillment

  • Offers psychoanalytic consultation services to mental health professionals looking to enhance their clinical skills and understanding of psychoanalytic principles

North Dakota State University Fargo, ND
Clinic Supervisor
Community Counseling Services

2021 - 2024

  • Collaboratively instruct the Practicum course, while delivering tailored, direct supervision to students under my purview, ensuring personalized guidance and feedback.

  • Deliver comprehensive counseling services to community members, adeptly adapting to in-person and remote modalities to maintain ethical standards and client accessibility.

  • Offer expert supervision and consultative services to students, reinforcing their clinical skills and professional development through reflective practice and targeted feedback.

  • Engage actively in collaborative case consultations with professional colleagues, contributing to a multidisciplinary approach for enhanced client care.

  • Consistently enhance my clinical competencies and instructional techniques through receiving structured supervision, reflecting a commitment to continual professional growth and best practice adherence.

Y-Knot Psychotherapy, LLC
Harrisonburg, VA
Private Practice

Pastoral Counselor - Ordained Minister

2019 - 2020

  • Delivered compassionate psychotherapeutic services to community members through my church, fostering mental and emotional well-being within the spiritual context.

  • Engaged with a diverse client base, including children, adolescents, and adults, tailoring therapeutic approaches to meet the unique developmental needs of each age group.

  • Actively participated in community engagement through speaking engagements, workshops, and group facilitation, enhancing public awareness and education on mental health topics.

  • Responded to crises with prompt emergency consultation and outreach, providing immediate support and intervention to individuals and the community during critical times.

  • Collaborated with professional peers in case consultations, leveraging collective expertise to improve client care outcomes.

  • Committed to professional excellence and ethical practice by regularly receiving analytic, counseling, and pastoral supervision, ensuring adherence to the highest standards of my profession.

Easter Mennonite University
Harrisonburg, VA
Graduate Student

Practicum - Internship

2017 - 2019

  • Delivered specialized psychotherapeutic services to both undergraduate and graduate students at the Seminary and University, fostering their mental health and academic success.

  • Supported psychotherapeutic groups and workshops, creating supportive environments for skill development and personal growth.

  • Provided prompt and effective crisis response, emergency consultation, and proactive outreach, ensuring immediate support and resources for walk-in hours and urgent needs.

Professional Experience

Sterling College
Craftsbury Common, VT
Assistant Director of Advancement and Alumni Relations                       

2014 - 2015

  • Orchestrated strategic outreach campaigns that bolstered alumni engagement and expanded the donor network, significantly contributing to the institution's sustainability.

Assistant Director of Admission                                                                     

2014 - 2015

  • Executed targeted recruitment strategies to attract and enroll high-caliber students, fostering relationships with key educational partners and stakeholders.

Veterans Services Coordinator        

2013 - 2014

  • Provided comprehensive support to veteran students, optimizing their access to financial and campus services and addressing housing needs, significantly enhancing their educational experience.

SCUBA Warriors
Puyallup, WA  
Therapeutic Intern
Undergraduate Research

2013

  • Delivered vital therapeutic support to SCUBA Warriors, contributing to their rehabilitation, and meticulously collected data instrumental for securing grant funding.

Student Activities Coordinator       

2012 - 2013

  • Engineered and executed a diverse portfolio of student-centric activities, effectively managing budgets and spearheading philanthropic efforts linked to alumni relations.

Sustainable Sterling Assistant  

2012 - 2013

  • Conducted in-depth research and analysis to inform the prioritization of infrastructural enhancements, advocating for sustainable facility improvements.

Seminole Hard Rock Hotel and Casino
Tampa, FL
Hotel Housekeeping Supervisor

2006 - 2011

  • Led a team of 42 housekeepers, instituting advanced training initiatives that elevated service standards and enriched guest satisfaction.

Seminole Hard Rock Hotel and Casino
Tampa, FLHotel
Environmental Vocational Specialist

2006 - 2011

  • Implemented a cost-saving equipment management program, authoring standard operating procedures that minimized maintenance expenses and streamlined operations.

Seminole Hard Rock Hotel and Casino
Tampa, FL
Security/Emergency Medical Technician (EMT)

2006 - 2011

  • Earned commendation for adeptly handling an emergency vehicle rollover incident, demonstrating exceptional off-site crisis management and medical intervention skills.

Research Experience

North Dakota State University Fargo, ND
Graduate Research Assistant

2020 - 2024

  • Conducted a groundbreaking interpretative phenomenological study to delve into the formative experiences of Lacanian psychoanalysts, shedding light on the complexities of their professional evolution, the critical role of mentorship, and the profound impact of introspection on mastering psychoanalytic disciplines.

  • Played an instrumental role in a pivotal study of AirU (USAF University) led by Dr. Laura Parsons, synthesizing extensive literature, performing robust data correlation, and contributing to insightful analysis of institutional performance metrics in 2020.

Colorado Psychoanalytic Forum of the Lacanian Field
Denver, CO
Cartel Research

2019 - Present

  • Actively engage as the principal contributor ('plus-one') in a rigorous two-year research group hosted by the Colorado Psychoanalytic Forum of the Lacanian Field, delving into the complexities of abstinence in psychoanalytic practice, and contributing to an evolving dialogue on the subject.

  • Led two-year investigative study group (Cartel) through the Colorado Psychoanalytic Forum of the Lacanian Field, culminating in a series of well-received presentations that explored the intricate process of becoming a psychoanalyst, spanning from 2019 to 2021.

Eastern Mennonite University
Harrisonburg, VA
Graduate Research

2018 - 2019

  • Conducted autoethnographic research for Graduate Degree, MA – Mental Health Counseling, “Sips and Slips” on the Artistic Process as a Product of Psychoanalysis, culminating in a professional conference presentation and art gallery exhibit.

Sterling College
Craftsbury Common, VT
Undergraduate Research

2012 - 2014

  • Facilitated therapeutic diving for wounded warriors as a safety diver/observer at Sterling College, leading to data-driven grant writing that secured a five-year project extension.

  • Analyzed and presented a two-year campus energy audit to the Board of Trustees, catalyzing a policy shift towards solar investment and fossil fuel divestment.

Church & Liturgical Experience

Ministerial Supply
United Church of Christ
ND & MN

2021 - Present

  • Provided pastoral services across communities, ensuring continuity of worship and spiritual care in absence of resident clergy.

  • Engaged with diverse congregations, adapting sermons and pastoral care to meet the unique needs of each church community.

  • Delivered full-time pastoral coverage, seamlessly stepping into leadership and maintaining spiritual well-being of the community.

  • Coordinated with church staff and volunteers to uphold the congregation's routines and traditions during the interim period.

  • Provided stable pastoral leadership during incumbent pastor's sabbatical, ensuring uninterrupted spiritual services and support.

  • Cultivated a supportive environment for congregants, managing pastoral duties and fostering a sense of continuity.

Chair
Committee on Ministry
Northern Plains Conference, ND

 

2023 - 2024

  • Oversee and guide the work of the Committee on Ministry, supporting and nurturing ministerial leadership within the UCC

  • Lead and facilitate regular COM meetings, setting agendas and ensuring alignment with UCC mission and values

  • Guide the committee in examining, authorizing, and overseeing ministerial standing, including ordination candidate review, granting of ministerial standing, and handling disciplinary matters

  • Collaborate with conference staff to ensure effective communication and coordination between COM and other UCC bodies

  • Serve as a liaison between COM and the wider church, representing the committee's work and decisions

  • Provide support, guidance, and resources to ministers and congregations, particularly in matters related to ministerial standing, ethics, and professional development

  • Ensure COM's work adheres to the UCC's Manual on Ministry and relevant policies and procedures

Pastor
Plymouth Congregational Church
Fargo, ND

2020 - 2021

  • Led congregation with dynamic weekly sermons and worship services, promoting spiritual growth and community engagement.

  • Implemented pastoral care strategies to support congregants through life transitions, crises, and personal challenges.

  • Actively participated in the governance of the ministry, contributing to the development of programs and initiatives.

  • Oversaw all aspects of church life, from sermon preparation to pastoral care, shaping the spiritual direction of the congregation.

  • Officiated special ceremonies, including confirmations, baptisms, weddings, and funerals, marking key milestones in congregants' lives.

  • Worked with music leaders to integrate meaningful music into worship and managed the church's digital presence to enhance outreach.

Committee on Ministry
Shenandoah Valley Association
Central Atlantic Conference, VA                              

2018 - 2020

  • Spearheaded strategic initiatives to foster ecclesiastical growth, providing guidance and oversight to committees within conference.

  • Facilitated effective communication and collaboration among various congregations, enhancing community engagement and support.

  • Played a key role in organizational decision-making and policy development to advance the ministry's mission and values.

Pastor,
St. Stephens UCC
Harrisonburg, VA

2016 - 2020

  • Led congregation with dynamic weekly sermons and worship services, promoting spiritual growth and community engagement.

  • Implemented pastoral care strategies to support congregants through life transitions, crises, and personal challenges.

  • Actively participated in the governance of the ministry, contributing to the development of programs and initiatives.

  • Oversaw all aspects of church life, from sermon preparation to pastoral care, shaping the spiritual direction of the congregation.

  • Officiated special ceremonies, including confirmations, baptisms, weddings, and funerals, marking key milestones in congregants' lives.

  • Worked with music leaders to integrate meaningful music into worship and managed the church's digital presence to enhance outreach.

Military Experience

Staff Sergeant (SSG/E-6), Army National Guard (ARNG), 20 September 2006

Sergeant (SGT/E-5), Army National Guard (ARNG), 01 April 2005

Specialist (SPC/E-4), Army National Guard (ARNG), 01 January, 2003

Private First Class (PFC/E-3), Army National Guard (ARNG), 17 January 2001

Professioal Developmnt,Curses & Affiliatios

Professional Development, Courses & Affiliations

Psychoanalyst Member (AP), The School of Psychoanalysis of the Forums of the Lacanian Field (SPFLF), June 2022 – Present

Member, The Colorado Psychoanalytic Forum of the Lacanian Field, Denver, CO, February 2021 – Present

Student, The Clinical College of Colorado, Denver, CO, March 2018 – May 2023

Advanced Clinical Supervisor Training, PD/CEU, Minnesota State University, Mankato, 2023

Counselor Supervision (Doctoral Course), CNED-870, North Dakota State University, 2022

Supervision & Consultation (Masters Course), COUN-509, Eastern Mennonite University, 2019

Phi Kappa Phi (ΦΚΦ), North Dakota State University, Chapter 10, 2023 – Present

National Board for Certified Counselors, Inc. (NBCC-NCC, ACS), 2023 – Present

The School of Psychoanalysis of the Forums of the Lacanian Field (EPFCL), June 2022 – Present

Chi Sigma Iota (ΧΣΙ), Nu Delta Sigma (ΝΔΣ) Chapter, 2022 – Present

Student Veterans of America (SVA), 2013 – Present

Bison Student Veterans (BSV), 2020 – Present

Sterling Veterans Club (SVC), Founder & Chapter President, 2013-2014

The Colorado Psychoanalytic Forum of the Lacanian Field, 2020 – Present

American Counseling Association (ACA and subdivisions), 2018 – Present

North Dakota Counselors Association (NDCA), 2021 – Present

Virginia Counselors Association, 2018-2020

Central Valley Chapter Association (CVCA), Dates not provided

Association for Counselor Education and Supervision (ACES), 2021 – Present

North Dakota Association for Counselor Education and Supervision (NDACES), 2021 – Present

Association for Spiritual, Ethical, and Religious Values in Counseling (ASERVIC), 2021 – Present

Military and Government Counseling Association (MGCA), 2021 – Present

Association for Clinical Pastoral Education (ACPE), 2016 – Present

Spiritually Integrated Psychotherapist (SIP) Student Member, 2018 – Present

United Church of Christ, Ordained Minister, 2015 – Present

Northern Plains Conference, 2019 – Present

Central Atlantic Conference, 2015 – 2019

Association for Experiential Education (AEE) Student Member, 2011-2015

Delta Chi (ΔΧ), 2002 – Present

University of South Florida (USF), "F" Risk Management, 2004

Licenses & Certifications

Ordained Minister

United Church of Christ

LPC

ND #1173-1-1-24

NCC

NBCC #1723603

ACS

NBCC #ACS-5374

Clinical Pastoral Education

ACPE

Marriage and Family Facilitator

Pastoral Counseling

MBTI Facilitator

Myers-Briggs Institute

Suicide Prevention Specialist

SCUBA Diver

SSI Master Diver

Notary Public

ND Commission expires July 22, 2025

Frames on the Wall
Licenses & Certificatins
Grants

Grants Received

Giddens, S.R. & Anderson, M. (2013). College Shooting Sports Initiative (CSSI), National Shooting Sports Foundation (NSSF), $10,000

Presentatos,Workshops,an Interviews

Presentations, Workshops, and Interviews

Keynote Speaker: Giddens, S. (2023). Veterans Day Ceremonies. [Speech]. North Dakota State University, Fargo, North Dakota.

 

Organizer & Moderator: Giddens, S. (2022). Who is Our Neighbor? An invitation to greater Hospitality. [Workshop]. First Congregational United Church of Christ - Moorhead, Moorhead, Minnesota.

 

Presenter: Giddens, S. (2022). Special Topics: An in-depth reading of Isaiah. [Bible Study]. First Congregational United Church of Christ - Moorhead, Moorhead, Minnesota.

 

Podcast Panelist: Terry-Nelson, C. (Host). (2020, May 11). The formation of the analyst (No. 1) [Audio podcast]. Colorado Analytic Podcast. Colorado Analytic Forum

 

Presenter: Giddens, S. (2019). Sips & Slips. [Presentation]. Eastern Mennonite University, Harrisonburg, Virginia.

 

Master of Ceremonies: Giddens, S. (2019). 125th Anniversary & Cornerstone Dedication. [Speech]. St. Stephens UCC, Harrisonburg, Virginia.

 

Speaker: Giddens, S. (2019). A Pilgrims Journey. [Speech]. Luray Tower, Luray, Virginia.

 

Guest Speaker: Giddens, S. (2018). Reflections of a Senior Deacon. [Lecture]. Rockingham Union #27, Harrisonburg, Virginia.

 

Speaker: Giddens, S. (2018). He is Risen. [Speech]. Luray Tower, Luray, Virginia.

 

Interview: Potter, E. (2017, October 10). It’s a different type of role: Veteran works as Pastor upon return from tours. Daily-News Record, B1, B3.

 

Presenter: Giddens, S. (2014). SCUBA Therapy. [Presentation]. Sterling College, Craftsbury Common, Vermont.

 

Co-Presenter: Giddens, S., & Parnick, J. (2014). Veteran Integration into Higher Education. [Presentation]. NEK Veterans Summit, Lyndon, Vermont.

 

Co-Presenter: Giddens, S., & Giddens, A. (2013). Veteran Integration into Higher Education. [Presentation]. NEK Veterans Summit, Lyndon, Vermont.

Leadership & Servie

University, College, and Departmental Leadership and Service

North Dakota State University, 2022 – Present

  • VALOR Advisory Board, Staff Member, 2024 - Present

    • Student Member, 2022 – 2024

  • Safe Zone Ally, Staff Ally, 2024 - Present

    • Student Ally, 2022 - 2024

  • Staff Processional Commencement, Fall 2024

  • Faculty Search Committee, Counseling Dept., Student Representative, 2023

  • Student Senate, Graduate Studies Representative, 2022-2023

    • Grade Appeals Board

    • Academic and Students Affairs (ASA) Commission

  • Graduate Student Orientation, Counseling Dept., 2022 – 2024

  •  Master’s Student Candidate Interviews, Counseling Dept., 2022


Eastern Mennonite Seminary, 2015 – 2018

  • Faculty Committee, Faculty Relations, Conduct, and Policy, Designated Student Representative, 2016 – 2018

  • Creation Care Committee, Member, 2015 – 2018
     

Sterling College, 2012 – 2014

  • Advisor, Student Veterans Club (SVA Chapter), 2014

  • Advisor, Hunter-Gatherer-Primitive Skills Club, 2014

  • Advisor/Coach, Orienteering Club

  • Advisor/Coach, Sterling Shooting Sports Team, 2014

  • Co-Founder, F.F.A. (Vermont’s 1st collegiate FFA), 2014

  •  Veterans Service Coordinator, VISTA Grant Funded Position, September 2013 – May 2014

  • Search Committee, Outdoor Education Faculty, Elected Student Representative, 2014

  • Founder, Hunter-Gatherer-Primitive Skills Club, 2013

  • Founder, Orienteering Club, 2013

  • Search Committee, Dean of Students, Designated Student Council Representative, 2013

  • Founder, Sterling Shooting Sports Team (College’s 1st Athletic Team), 2013

  • Founder, Quidditch Club, 2012

  • Founder, Student Veterans Club (an SVA Chapter), 2012

  • Search Committee, President of the College, Elected Student Representative, 2012

Commuity Development & Voluteer Work

Community Development & Volunteer Work

Bison Strides, NDSU, Fargo, ND, 2022 – 2023: Horse Handler for Equine Therapy programs, ensuring equine and client safety, with responsibilities including grooming, preparing, and handling horses for therapeutic activities.

Dakota Sons of the American Revolution, Fargo, ND, 2021 – 2023: Presenter of the annual JROTC Outstanding Cadet Award to deserving cadets on behalf of Dakota SAR.

St. Stephen’s UCC, Harrisonburg, VA, 2015 – 2020: Led Mission and Outreach Committee; served in homeless ministry, food insecurity support, Habitat for Humanity, advocacy for domestic abuse victims, violence against children, refugee support, and mental health and Pastoral counseling.

Fort Harrison NSSAR, Harrisonburg, VA, 2018 – 2020: Citizenship Sponsor and Advocate.

Craftsbury UCC, Craftsbury Common, VT, 2014 – 2015: Mission and Outreach Vice-President; initiated monthly service engagements, Random Acts of Kindness program, Veteran’s integration, food insecurity support, heating needs, and Habitat for Humanity partnership.

Administrative Boards & Committees

Administrative Boards & Committees

VALOR Advisory Board Member, North Dakota State University, 2022 – Present

Staff - September 2024 - Present

Student - January 2022 - May 2024

Committee on Ministry, Northern Plains Conference, 2023 – 2024

Chair – August 2023 – August 2024

Member – January 2023 – July 2023

Committee on Ministry Committee Member, Shenandoah Valley Association, 2018 – 2020

Board Member, The Art House, 2014 – 2015

Academic Awards

The Honor Society of Phi Kappa Phi (ΦΚΦ), NDSU Ch.#10, 2023

Recipient of the 2016, 2018, and 2019 The Layman H. & Ruth S. Lantz Scholarship from The Community Foundation, Harrisonburg, VA

Recipient of the 2014 Engaged Student Award for Sterling College from Vermont Campus Compact Forum, St. Michael’s College, Colchester, VT

Regional Awardee of the 2014 Student Veterans Association – National Student Leadership Awards, Bentonville, AR

Awards

Professional Awards

Recipient of the 2007 Above and Beyond Service Award from The Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino, Tampa, FL

Military Awards

Army Commendation Medal with Bronze Oak Leaf Cluster

Presidential Unit Citation

Army Achievement Medal

Joint Meritorious Unit Citation

Good Conduct Medal

Meritorious Unit Citation

National Defense Service Medal

Afghanistan Campaign Medal with Campaign Star

Global War on Terror Expeditionary Medal

Global War on Terror Support Medal

Armed Forces Reserve Medal with Bronze Hourglass, M, 3rd Award

NCO Professional Development Ribbon 3rd Award

Army Service Ribbon

Overseas Service Ribbon 2nd Award

Home: Skills

Skills

Notepad on Desk
Podium
Office with a View
trans-la-tion
Image by Rachael Gorjestani

Event Planning

Ceremonies
Baptisms
Weddings
Funerals

Public Speaking

Informative
Persuasive
Demonstrative

Ceremonial

Professional Skills

 

MS Office Suite

Titanium

Connect

Grant Writing

Languages

Fluent English
Basic Spanish
Limited working knowledge of Koine (Greek) and Hebrew.

Social Media

Website Management

Content Creation

Podcast & Video

E-mail Marketing

"If you want something you've never had, you must be willing to do something you've never done."

                                                         —Thomas Jefferson

Original on transparent
  • simplepracticeehrlogo
  • OVOU
  • Psychology-Today-Logo_375fa62ed926926091330dc018968979-3662394213

©2021 by Rev. Steven R. Giddens.

bottom of page