Counseling Department

Meet the Counselors!

Miss Pemberton was born and raised in upstate New York.  She attended SUNY Geneseo for her undergraduate degree.  Initially, she intended to become a chemistry teacher and later pursue her life dream of being a school counselor, but her introduction to psychology class changed her plan.  Discovering the depth of her passion for psychology she graduated with a double major in psychology and secondary education (concentration: social studies).  Upon graduation she moved to Williamsburg, VA and attended the College of William and Mary, where she earned a Master's of Education in School Counseling. After working as a school counselor on the Eastern Shore of Virginia for 3 years, she decided it was time for better weather and relocated to delightfully sunny and arid Utah.  Miss Pemberton is over scheduling for cadets with the last name M-Z, but loves working with any and all cadets! 

Email: cpemberton@utahmilitaryacademy.org

Ms. Daw has wanted to be a School Counselor since junior high. She grew up in the state of Washington.  Ms. Daw  graduated with her bachelor degree from Utah Valley University in the field of Behavioral Science, emphasis of Psychology in 2005. She attended Utah State University, earning a Masters degree in Education with School Counseling licensure. Before becoming a School Counselor she was an Entrepreneur, owning a successful new construction cleaning company as well as a health coaching business. She has previously taught preschool and worked with many youth. Ms. Daw enjoys her role as a school counselor, especially encouraging all cadets to strive for their personal best. She is available for talking, helping, scheduling, college and career planning, and so much more! Ms. Daw is thrilled to be working with the students, teachers, administrators, and parents at UMA! Ms. Daw is over scheduling for cadets with the last name A-L but welcomes all cadets to come see her. 

Email: Pdaw@utahmilitaryacademy.org

Mr. Wendel  LCSW 

Mr. Wendel grew up in Utah and joined the Army Reserve during his Senior Year. After Basic Training, he returned to school at the University of Utah (GO UTES!!) to complete a Bachelors in Psychology with a Minor in History.  Subsequently, he returned and completed his Masters in Social Work with a Clinical Licensure (LCSW) with a focus on children, teens and their families. He then began working with children in Foster Care agencies for many years, providing private and contract clinical services in many different settings and with many different needs. He retired from the military in 2011 after some 29 years of service. In the summer of 2023, Mr. Wendel accepted an offer to come to work for Utah Military Academy. Interacting and mentoring the Cadets on the daily basis, meeting their social and physical needs, providing assistance to their families, and providing support using sound therapeutic principals is his passion and focus. 

Email: JWendel@utahmilitaryacademy.org