A licensed professional counselor and approved clinical supervisor, she earned her Ph.D. in Counseling and Counselor Education from the University of North Carolina at Greensboro. She has authored and coauthored more than 20 refereed journal articles, book chapters, and scholarly instruments. She has also contributed greatly to the field by presenting at many state, regional, and national conferences. Dr. Welfare has received grants and awards in recognition of her research and teaching. Her contributions through research, teaching, and service enrich the Virginia Tech School of Education community.