LEXINGTON, Ky. — A University of Kentucky College of Education professor has been recognized for her distinguished career contributions to the field of rehabilitation counseling. Debra A. Harley, Ph.D., received the 2026 Distinguished Career in Rehabilitation Award from the Association for Rehabilitation, Research, Policy and Education (ARRPE), the university announced this week.

Harley, the Wallace Charles Hill Professor of Counselor Education at UK's Department of Early Childhood, Special Education and Counselor Education, was honored for her three decades of academic work advancing the field. She accepted the award and delivered a keynote address at the organization's national conference in February.

"This award is an acknowledgment by my colleagues and the profession that during my 30-plus years in academia I have held steadfast to a philosophy of advocacy, service and promotion of social justice for people with disabilities and other marginalized populations," Harley said.

A certified rehabilitation counselor and licensed professional clinical counselor, Harley coordinates the Counselor Education and Supervision doctoral program and previously served as chair of her department. Her scholarly output includes more than 100 refereed articles and 95 book chapters, reflecting her influence in rehabilitation research.

Harley's previous honors include the Sylvia Walker Education Award, the Bobbie Atkins Research Award and the Vernon Hawkins Pioneer and Leadership Award from the National Association of Multicultural Rehabilitation Concerns. She has been named a Mary Switzer Scholar by the National Rehabilitation Association and a Provost's Distinguished Service Professor at UK. She also served as commissioner of the Commission of Rehabilitation Counselor Certification and is past editor of the Journal of Applied Rehabilitation Counseling and the Journal of Rehabilitation Administration.

Justin Lane, Ph.D., acting department chair, praised Harley's impact. "Dr. Harley's career reflects a remarkable dedication to her students, colleagues and the academic community. She is the backbone of our department — a steady and generous presence whose support, kindness and advocacy have strengthened our community in lasting ways," Lane said.

ARRPE, established in December 2023, provides a forum for rehabilitation educators, researchers, providers, students, advocates and members of the disability community to connect and collaborate. The association's mission is to advance the field of rehabilitation through research, policy and education that improves outcomes for individuals with disabilities and chronic health conditions.