Parenting Insights With Dr. Harry Shucker

The fastest growing area of services within higher education is mental health counseling; unfortunately at a pace that cannot keep up with the demand. Dr. Harry Shucker presents insights based on 22 years as VP for Student Services at Furman and the troubling trends among students and parents that he has witnessed. Often these issues surface in college or in the last years of high school but the seeds are sown during the early years in elementary and middle school.

While a tragic incident such as Virginia Tech grabs the headlines, the growing need for mental health services on college campuses is really the unfolding tragedy on a daily basis.

“Many in this college generation have been raised in a culture of conformity and high expectations. Parents have given their children every opportunity to enrich themselves, to excel, to become superkids. Today’s college students are more driven to succeed than any generation before them – and more likely to break down.”

College of the Overwhelmed
Dr. Richard Kadison
Harvard University Counseling Services

In dealing with these troubling student issues at Furman and in meeting the parents, many of the problematic behaviors involved the way in which children are raised in this “age of immediacy”. Parents often do not understand what their child is experiencing because they are just too busy with their own careers. During this one hour session, Dr. Shucker helps parents develop a better understanding of how their decisions of today, the pace of our society and the overuse of technology combine to influence the development of children. This presentation is available to schools and community organizations in Greenville and Spartanburg Counties.

Dr. Harry Shucker began his career in higher education as an Admissions Counselor at Furman University in 1968. From 1971 to 1985, he served in various positions at Furman including Director of Financial Aid, Director of Residential Living, and Director of Student Life. In 1985, Harry was promoted to Vice President for Student Services and retired from that position in 2007. During 2008, he worked within the Development Office and continues to be involved with University fund raising activities. In addition, he serves in a consulting role with Keeling and Associates, a comprehensive higher education consulting firm based in New York City.

To schedule a session in your area, please contact us.