Laster joins MC Counseling faculty; MC School of English and Philosophy welcomes Shaw

New MC faculty members Elliot A. Shaw and Kristy W. Laster will teach core and upper-level English and philosophy courses and graduate-level counseling courses, respectively.

Kristy W. Laster, owner and founder of Resolve to Restore Counseling Services in Flowood, and Elliot A. Shaw, a literature instructor at the University of Georgia, have joined the Mississippi College faculty.

Laster, who has served as a counselor, disability services coordinator and Title IX coordinator at Hinds Community College for 10 years, has been named an assistant professor of counseling in MC’s Department of Counseling. Shaw, who formerly served as an adjunct professor at institutions of higher learning in West Palm Beach, Florida, including Palm Beach Atlantic University and South University, has been named an assistant professor of English in MC’s School of English and Philosophy.

Kayla Acklin, assistant professor and chair of counseling at MC, said Laster will teach graduate-level counseling courses, supervise clinical training, and contribute to program development and student mentorship. She will also serve as the interim school counseling program coordinator for the 2025-26 academic session.

“She brings an exceptional combination of academic preparation, professional licensure and diverse counseling experience to her role,” Acklin said.

A licensed professional counselor-supervisor, national certified counselor, national certified school counselor and licensed psychometrist, Laster has several degrees, including a Master of Education in Counseling from MC and a Doctor in Philosophy in Higher Education from Jackson State University. She has multiple endorsements in counseling, psychometry and education.

“She has demonstrated outstanding leadership in program development, policy and compliance, student services, and mental health counseling across several settings,” Acklin said. “Dr. Laster’s extensive background in counseling practice, supervision and educational leadership makes her a strong fit for Mississippi College’s mission of academic excellence and Christ-centered service.

“Her expertise in clinical training, accessibility and student development will greatly enhance the preparation of our counseling students for professional practice. We are delighted to welcome Dr. Laster back to MC and look forward to the many ways she will contribute to our department, university and community.”

Kristi Melancon, MC professor of English and philosophy, said Shaw’s teaching highlights the importance of valuing students’ voices, helping students create connections across disciplines and offering students opportunities for creativity.

“We are thrilled to welcome Dr. Shaw to the English and Philosophy faculty,” she said. “His interdisciplinary research is at the intersection of philosophy and English, and we are eager for him to step into an advisor role for our philosophy minors and to continue to grow the program."

Shaw obtained his bachelor’s in English and secondary education from Palm Beach Atlantic University, his M.A. in comparative literature from Florida Atlantic, and his Ph.D. in comparative literature and cultural studies from the University of Georgia. He has taught courses such as “Ethnic American Literature,” “Black Diaspora Literature,” “Children’s Literature” and “Literature and Medicine.”

Melancon said Shaw will be teaching core courses and upper-level English and philosophy courses, including “Introduction to Philosophy” and “Philosophy of Science,” at MC.

“Dr. Shaw's faith remains the center of his being,” she said. “As he explained, ‘I endeavor to conduct myself in line with the principles of love and care exemplified in the person of Jesus. The ethical ideal of de-centering the self is ever-present in day-to-day living – from making meals to domestic tasks to professional engagements and more.’”

Shaw has helped with children's ministry, served on his church's worship team and organized interdenominational mercy ministries for immigrants and other at-risk populations.