News Summary
William & Mary Athletics has announced the appointment of Zellessia Ejalonibu as the new Director of Mental Health and Performance, starting July 10. With over 15 years of experience in mental health for student-athletes, Ejalonibu will oversee the well-being of 500 student-athletes, provide counseling, and enhance performance strategies. Her past roles include positions at the University of Oklahoma and Mississippi State University. Ejalonibu’s extensive background positions her well to contribute significantly to the university’s commitment to student-athlete mental health.
Williamsburg, Virginia – William & Mary Athletics has appointed Zellessia Ejalonibu, MA, LCPC as the new Director of Mental Health and Performance. Ejalonibu is set to begin her role on July 10, where she will oversee the mental and emotional well-being of over 500 student-athletes at the institution. Her duties will include providing counseling services and performance enhancement strategies to improve the overall health and athletic performance of the student-athletes.
Ejalonibu brings considerable experience to the position, having previously worked as an Assistant Director of Psychological Resources for Student-Athletes at the University of Oklahoma. She has a proven track record in the field, with a total of 15 years dedicated to mental health and education specifically tailored for student-athletes. Her extensive career includes positions at Mississippi State University as the Assistant Director of Counseling and Sport Psychology and as a counselor at North Central College in Illinois.
Throughout her professional journey, Ejalonibu has co-founded and served as a therapist at L.E.A.D.O.F.F. Counseling and Consulting in Chicago from 2017 to 2024. In her various roles, she has provided clinical services to over 900 individuals and facilitated more than 800 psychotherapy groups on diverse topics such as depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, substance abuse, and coping skills. Her approach emphasizes the importance of understanding each student-athlete’s full narrative, including personal challenges beyond their sporting commitments.
Brian D. Mann, the Director of W&M Athletics, expressed enthusiasm for Ejalonibu’s appointment, emphasizing that her experience and perspective will significantly benefit the student-athlete community. Besides individual counseling, Ejalonibu is expected to collaborate closely with coaches to enhance mental skill training and overall performance.
In her new role, Ejalonibu will also be responsible for conducting ongoing program evaluations. Additionally, she will serve as a vital link to the Counseling Center at William & Mary, ensuring that mental health resources are effectively utilized by both students and staff.
Ejalonibu, who resides in Matteson, Illinois, is also a mother to three sons: Ezekiel (10), Elijah (8), and Emmanuel (6). She expressed her eagerness to transition to Williamsburg where her children are beginning to engage in sports, and she anticipates enjoying local live music events.
The position of Director of Mental Health and Performance at William & Mary aligns with the university’s commitment to supporting the mental and emotional health of its student-athletes, vital for their success both on and off the field. Ejalonibu’s extensive background and dedication to the mental health of student-athletes make her a valuable addition to the team.
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Additional Resources
- WYDaily: W&M Athletics Appoints Director of Mental Health and Performance
- Wikipedia: Mental Health
- Tribe Athletics: W&M Athletics Honors the Class of 2025
- Google Search: Mental Health in Student Athletes
- Tribe Athletics: Women’s Lacrosse Hosts Elon
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Psychology
- WYDaily: W&M Football Announces Future FBS Opponents
