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Rush B. "Rusty" Winchester was recently named director of discernment in Maryville College's Center for Calling & Career. He began his duties at the college Dec. 7.

Winchester holds a doctorate degree in child and family studies and a master's degree in psychology and guidance, both from University of Tennessee. He earned a bachelor's degree in psychology from Davidson College.

As director of discernment, Winchester is responsible for initiating and conducting student programming that encourages and supports discernment of vocation; providing follow-up reflection and guidance for students, faculty and others exploring the various aspects of vocation; partnering with the campus minister in organizing and leading programs related to theological exploration of vocation; and teaching college courses that connect issues of vocation to the college curriculum.

Winchester comes to the college with experience in teaching at undergraduate and graduate levels, direct counseling with students and clients of all ages, and group therapy.

His most recent position was at Lincoln Memorial University, where he served as an assistant professor for graduate education and chair of the counseling department.

He taught counseling courses to graduate students and organized successful efforts to design an expanded M.Ed. program in mental health counseling.

An active member of New Providence Presbyterian Church in Maryville, Winchester is the drummer for the church's Praise Band and has been involved in the church's latest capital campaign.