The 2026–2027 Utah School Counselor Rookie of the Year was awarded to Julie Gowans of Salem Junior High School in Nebo School District. The award was presented on Thursday, November 12, 2026, at the Utah School Counselor Association Conference.

The Rookie School Counselor of the Year Award recognizes new elementary, middle, or high school counselors with one to four years of experience who bring fresh ideas and positive change to their departments.

Salem Junior High School and the School Counseling Team are excited about this honor and grateful to have Julie in our school and office.

Picture 1: Julie Gowans receiving the Rookie of the Year award.

Picture 2: Left to Right: Keith Richards, Salem Junior High School Principal; Lee Litchfield, Counselor; Julie Gowans, award recipient; and Ben Gowans, Julie's husband and elementary school counselor.