The following members are running for positions on IAC's Executive Council, with terms beginning in 2026. Read descriptions of each position here.

President
Bill Borgen

Statement of Interest
Since its inception in 1966 the International Association for Counselling has been a key international catalyst in the development and enhancement of contextually and culturally relevant counselling research, education and services around the world. I have been involved in a leadership capacity with IAC since 1990. I was President from 1998 to 2006, and from 2019 to the present. Over the past six years a number of initiatives have enhanced the profile and reach of the association. These include: the move towards making IAC an association of associations, which has led to increased involvement and contributions by national counselling associations; the creation of regional branches of the association, the first being IAC Europe in 2025; offering hybrid conferences over the past two years to foster increased accessibility; increasing communication with members; strengthening of connections with UNESCO and the World Health Organization; offering more flexible ways to become a member, and continuing the world mapping project. I believe that we can build on our current momentum to more effectively advocate for culturally relevant counsellor educational and practice standards that will assist in counselling being recognized as a profession in areas of the world where that is not the case. Increased use of digital technology and social media, along with ongoing in person exchanges, and increasing levels of infrastructure support for our regional representatives, will strengthen the funding base of association and enhance IAC’s ability to engage in its core mandate of promoting and advancing the creation and re-development of counselling research, education, and practice globally. 

Statement of Qualifications
I have been involved leadership positions for a number of years. These include department head at the University of British Columbia for 19 years, President of the Canadian Guidance and Counselling Association, board member of the International Association for Educational and Vocational Guidance, and leadership roles with IAC intermittently since 1990 – President from 1998-2006 and 2019 to the present. I have adapted, developed and offered counsellor education programs and courses sponsored by governments, granting organizations and UN agencies in a number of regional and cultural contexts. These activities have made me keenly aware of my own cultural assumptions and biases and of the importance of cultural humility in all of my interactions. They also have provided the opportunity learn about a broad range of cultural perspectives and processes. My work with IAC has provided a large part of that learning. Dr. Nathan Peron and I recently developed the International Declaration of Ethical Principles for Professional Counsellors. This publication is one reflection of  the high level of respect that I have for the values, mission and vision of IAC. I would be honoured to serve a last term as President of the association. 

Biography
Bill has extensive experience conducting research and developing evidence-based programs regarding life transitions and career development that has had an impact nationally and internationally. His work has been translated and adapted for use in Bhutan, Denmark, Finland, Hungary, and Sweden, and there have been more than 5,000 citations of his publications. In 2005, the University of Umea awarded him an honorary doctorate for his leadership in the development of counsellor education in Sweden. Bill has co-chaired the Canadian Council for the Accreditation of Counsellor Education Programs since 2003. In 2011 he received the Stu Conger Award for leadership in career development in Canada. He has also been active in promoting the accreditation of doctoral programs in Counselling Psychology and, in 2018, was made a Fellow of the Canadian Psychological Association. He received the Outstanding Educator of Career Professionals Award by Asia Pacific Career Development Association in 2020. Bill served on the Board of Directors of the International Association for Educational and Vocational Guidance from 2011 to 2019, and was elected President of the International Association for Counselling (IAC) in May 2019 (where he is also a lifetime member).

Vice President of Operations
Nate Perron

Statement of Interest
My personal and professional values align beautifully with the mission of IAC, as I aspire to be involved with making a difference to advance counseling and mental health awareness throughout the world. My various levels of involvement with IAC have continued to ignite a passion for collaboration, learning, and extending support to the counseling professionals throughout the world that long for connection and effective collaboration. I believe IAC is well positioned to meet the needs of communities throughout the world that seek structure, guidance, and collaboration to present counseling in meaningful and culturally-relevant ways. I am excited that IAC continues to embody a leadership role throughout the world, evidenced by historic collaborations with UNESCO, the World Health Organization, and national associations throughout the world. Growing numbers of volunteers make a true difference in IAC’s research and outreach initiatives, helping to fuel a spirit of collaboration that has continued to inspire my involvement and eager contributions to the work of IAC. I remain motivated by the current initiatives that IAC facilitates with organizational partners, expanding the opportunities for addressing current issues in counseling and developing creative means of addressing needs that exist. I believe IAC is positioned to create real change to enhance mental health awareness and support around the globe, and I am hopeful that my personal traits of organization, vision, and ambition contribute to the Vice President of Operations role to which I am applying.

Statement of Qualifications
I have come to value IAC as my professional home in many ways, which has expanded through regular voluntary leadership roles throughout the association. I first became involved through the IAC Counselling Practitioners’ Round Table (CPRT) in 2013, and later came to my first conference at Verona, Italy in 2015. The more I learned of the work and collaboration taking place, the more I became intrigued with opportunities to be involved and volunteer my time with IAC. This experience later progressed for me to become the Chair of the CPRT, participate in the scientific committee for many conferences (twice as chair), participate in leadership on the Executive Council (member at large and then secretary), collaborate with the development of the Universal Declaration of Ethical Principles for Professional Counsellors (UDEPPC), and contribute to many other initiatives of IAC. Other than IAC involvement, I maintain a variety of leadership roles in many other settings. My full-time employment as a Director of Affiliate Faculty and Instruction with a Masters-level counseling program has provided great opportunities to support the affiliate faculty that teach within our Masters in Counseling program. Here I have remained actively involved in helping to shape a team of part-time counselor educators on our team, and coordinating the involvement and execution of our curriculum and program strategies. I also remain committed to many other professional leadership efforts throughout my country and university setting.

Biography
Nate has served as Secretary on the Executive Council of IAC since 2019, and as a member at large for two years beforehand. As a professional counselor and counselor educator in the USA, he currently serves as Director of Affiliate Faculty and Instruction, Clinical Associate Professor in the Masters of Arts in Counseling program with The Family Institute at Northwestern University. He obtained a PhD in counselor education and supervision at Northern Illinois University, and since 2005 has practiced as a Licensed Professional Counselor (or equivalent licenses) in Wisconsin, Illinois, New Hampshire, and Vermont. He has taught undergraduate and graduate students in counseling, psychology, and human services in several universities since 2008, and has remained involved with national and local professional associations. Such involvement has included serving as Chair for the International Committee with the American Counseling Association (ACA), his national professional body, with whom he has participated, presented, and led in a variety of roles and circumstances. He has also been involved in professional leadership among several other associations in the USA, working to advance knowledge and scholarship in the specialty areas of international counseling, first responder wellness, trauma and recovery, children and adolescents, and faith integration.

Vice President of Regional Development
Dominic Nsona

Statement of Interest
For me, motivation comes from the chance to develop meaningful relationships with my fellow practitioners from around the world. I’m a people person at heart, and I find that working with others who share my values and goals is incredibly fulfilling. I want to be part of a team that is supportive, collaborative, and committed to achieving great things together. One of the things that motivates me most is the chance to grow and push myself out of my comfort zone. I thrive on the fact that IAC is growing and making a significant global impact. The association has made remarkable growth over the years, and I welcome the opportunity to continue to work on such a great team and am motivated to continue making a positive impact on the counselling world. Whether it’s through my work directly or through IAC's mission, I find that I’m most energized when I feel like I’m contributing to something bigger than myself. I want to be part of an association that is making a difference and creating a world where counselling is available to all.

Statement of Qualifications
I am a compassionate and dedicated counselling professional with over 20 years of experience in providing empathetic, client-centered support to individuals, families, and groups. My qualifications are rooted in a strong academic foundation, practical expertise, and a deep commitment to fostering counselling that supports mental well-being. My degree is in counselling studies with specialized training in cognitive behavioral therapy and trauma-informed care, and I have a proven track record of over 25 years working in diverse settings, including hospitals, community centers, and private practice, addressing issues such as anxiety, depression, grief, and relationship challenges. My core competencies include active listening and empathetic communication, designing and implementing personalized therapeutic plans, facilitating group therapy sessions and workshops, crisis intervention, and conflict resolution, among others. I am culturally sensitive, skilled in working with clients from diverse cultural and socioeconomic backgrounds, ensuring inclusive and respectful care. I have worked on the role of overseeing counselling services in Africa for the past five years and have successfully supported countries in achieving measurable improvements in mental health and emotional growth.

Biography
Dominic is the current president of Malawi Association of Counselling and a council member of IAC, responsible for the African region. Dominic has worked with Kamuzu Central Hospital (Lighthouse) as a public health specialist in HIV testing. He has also worked for Elizabeth Glaser pediatric AIDS Foundation (EGPAF) as HIV testing technical advisor.

Treasurer
Ruth Falzon

Statement of Interest
My commitment to IAC is unwavering, demonstrated by my continuous membership since 2006, my work on the IAC Council since 2008, and my passion for wellbeing and empowerment. Having previously served two full terms as IAC Treasurer and interim treasurer until the upcoming elections, I am confident that my skills and extensive experience make me a strong candidate for this position. My passion for IAC and its mission is reflected in my hands-on involvement with the organisation. I have had the privilege of helping to organise several IAC conferences, including the conference in Jamaica and three in Malta. I have also lately helped complete a succesful Erasmus project involving MACP, IAC and two other EU associations. I am well-versed in the responsibilities of an officer of a voluntary organisation. My extensive experience as - MACP treasurer (2007-2017), MDA Treasurer (2003-2016), and the EDA (2017-present), gives me comprehensive experience in financial management.

Statement of Qualifications
With over 37 years of experience in leadership roles on the boards of various associations, I am a highly qualified and committed candidate for the position of IAC Treasurer. A deep-seated commitment to fiduciary responsibility, a proven track record in financial management. My qualifications for this role are rooted in experience as a treasurer for multiple inter/national organisations. These roles have provided me with comprehensive skills in managing and overseeing financial operations and strong understanding of international banking practices, as I have managed accounts with institutions in America, Belgium, Britain, Canada, Italy, and Malta. This global exposure is a critical asset IAC. My qualifications extend beyond finance. As an Associate Professor and a founding member of the Department of Counselling at the University of Malta, my professional life is inherently aligned with the IAC's mission to promote counselling worldwide. This position provides me with a platform to advocate for our shared goals and integrate IAC's values into my academic and community engagement. I am fully prepared to uphold the fiduciary duties and contribute meaningfully to IAC’s financial health and continued success.

Biography
As a long-standing contributor to the University of Malta's Faculties of Education and Social Wellbeing, Ruth is deeply rooted in teaching and research related to learning, emotional intelligence, and counselling research methodology. She has published numerous research papers in national and international journals, presented at a wide range of conferences, and been invited to deliver keynote speeches. Her expertise is further recognised through her roles as a journal reviewer and an editorial board member. Her passion for the counselling profession stems from its focus on an empowerment model and its contribution to individual wellbeing, which is essential for building healthy communities. Her commitment extends to taking community engagement seriously, as demonstrated by her active roles on the executive councils of several professional associations. These include serving as Treasurer and Board Director of the European Dyslexia Association, Membership Chair and former Treasurer of the International Association for Counselling, and Executive Council Member of the Malta Association for the Counselling Profession. She has also held leadership positions with the Malta Dyslexia Association and the International Society for Policy Research & Evaluation in School-Based Counselling (ISPRESC).

Director of Fundraising & Membership
Zach Pietrioni

Qualifications
My qualifications for the Director of Fundraising and Membership position are grounded in a strong record of leadership, organisational management, and service to the counselling profession. I have designed and implemented strategic initiatives that expanded programmes, strengthened partnerships, and created sustainable systems to support growth. I have worked closely with executive leadership teams to align development and membership priorities with mission-driven goals, always emphasising ethical practice, transparency, and responsiveness to diverse needs. While my background provides me with a solid understanding of sustainability, I have also contributed to resource generation by collaborating on grant development, cultivating partnerships, and promoting financial stewardship. I understand that fundraising is not only about securing financial resources but also about building trust, strengthening relationships, and ensuring the visibility of the profession globally. My work as a counsellor educator and programme coordinator has given me deep insight into the evolving needs of counsellors and the structures that support their work. I have consulted on the development of counselling programmes across diverse cultural contexts and led accreditation efforts that promoted quality and equity. These experiences shaped my ability to engage stakeholders, foster collaboration, and support inclusive membership services. I bring to this role financial stewardship, membership-building experience, a global perspective, and a strong commitment to collaboration and professional service. I am prepared to support the Executive Council’s goals by growing a diverse membership base, cultivating fundraising opportunities, and strengthening IAC’s visibility to ensure its long-term impact.

Personal Statement
I am deeply motivated to serve the counselling profession on an international level because I believe in its transformative power to improve lives, strengthen communities, and promote peace and justice worldwide. The vision of IAC aligns closely with my own values and longstanding commitment to advancing the profession. I am inspired by the opportunity to contribute my leadership skills, financial stewardship, and strategic planning abilities to support a diverse and inclusive global network of counsellors working towards shared goals. In this role, I will focus on designing and implementing strategies that secure sustainable funding through grants, sponsorships, and donations. I see fundraising not only as resource generation but also as a way of building meaningful partnerships and ensuring that programmes, advocacy, and services remain accessible across regions. I will also prioritise growing and supporting a diverse membership base by strengthening engagement, enhancing benefits, and fostering connections across cultures. My leadership experience and financial management has equipped me to build long-term relationships with stakeholders while ensuring accountability and transparency. I value collaboration and will work closely with the Treasurer and Executive Council members to align funding and membership strategies with organisational needs. I am passionate about raising the visibility of the profession and creating opportunities for members to feel supported and connected. I see this role as a vital opportunity to advance our collective mission, strengthen global engagement, and expand the impact of counselling worldwide.

Biography
Zach is a licensed school counsellor, counsellor educator, and programme coordinator with extensive experience in counsellor preparation, leadership, and financial stewardship. His work focuses on building culturally responsive programmes, expanding access to high-quality training, and strengthening interdisciplinary collaboration. He has authored publications and presented on counsellor development, multicultural competence, and interdisciplinary collaboration to enhance counsellor training. In addition to his academic and research contributions, he has led financial stewardship, programme development, and capacity-building efforts that serve diverse communities and strengthen organisational sustainability. He has cultivated partnerships across institutions and professional organisations, supported grant and resource development, and advanced initiatives that expand visibility and impact, which requires engaging diverse stakeholders and aligning resources with long-term goals. He has served on professional organisation executive councils to promote financial stewardship, membership building, and professional development. These roles deepened his experience in membership engagement, collaboration across cultures, and fostering inclusive participation. He remains committed to bringing together diverse voices and building global networks that support the counselling profession in advancing well-being, justice, and access for all.

Director of Policy, Education, & Liaison Partnerships
Euchay Ngozi Horsman

Statement of Interest
I seek to serve as IAC’s Director of Policy, Education and Liaison Partnerships to help turn ideals into practical guidance that elevates counseling globally. As an Associate Professor of clinical mental health counseling and a long-time practitioner, I have seen wide variance in ethical practice, access, and culturally responsive training. I want to convene educators, practitioners, and allied organizations to co-create rigorous, concise policy briefs, position statements, and learning resources that are adaptable to local contexts.

Statement of Qualifications
I offer a blend of academic leadership, applied practice, and cross-organizational collaboration suited to the Director of Policy, Education and Liaison Partnerships. I hold a Ph.D. in Rehabilitation Counselor Education and Supervision, a license as a professional counselor (LPC), and maintain such national credentials as a certified rehabilitation counselor (CRC), certified forensic mental health evaluator (CFMHE), and certified vocational specialist (CVE). Across roles in higher education including now as an Associate Professor at Southern Arkansas University, I design curricula, supervise fieldwork, chair committees, and align syllabi and assessment with accreditation and licensure standards. 

Biography
Euchay is an Associate Professor of Clinical Mental Health Counseling at Southern Arkansas University. She prepares graduate counselors through teaching, clinical supervision, and program assessment, and she collaborates with agencies and schools to ensure high-quality field placements and supervision. Her applied practice includes service as a Vocational Expert for the U.S. Social Security Administration, where she provides expert testimony on work capacity and labor market trends. Dr. Horsman’s training spans rehabilitation counseling, instructional design, and intercultural communication. She is a Licensed Professional Counselor and holds national certifications in rehabilitation counseling, forensic mental health evaluation, and vocational evaluation. Her career has included roles in community mental health, youth residential treatment, and nonprofit service delivery, along with extensive teaching in university settings. She contributes to the profession through peer review with Teaching and Learning Inquiry and the Journal of Disability Studies, advocacy within the ISSoTL community, and committee service with the International Association for Wellness Counseling. In the AMHCA/IAC community, she has worked on the task force on the Global Guidelines for Remote Counseling. She regularly provides professional development workshops, including CRC and NCE exam preparation, cultural humility in vocational counseling, and assessment-for-learning in higher education. Across her roles, Euchay focuses on culturally responsive care, ethical technology-supported practice, and evidence-informed policies and education. She is committed to broadening access to counseling worldwide by building practical resources and partnerships that respect local contexts and advance competence, equity, and wellness for all communities.