School Counseling & College Advising

Mr. Butch Hamilton is the Director of College Advising. Since 1997, he has been advising at the secondary level after eleven years in college admissions. In addition to being a Certified Educational Planner, he is an active member of the Potomac and Chesapeake Association for College Admission Counseling (PCACAC) and the National Association for College Admission Counseling (NACAC).
“Respect the process” forms the basis of his educational philosophy: The journey to college and the time spent there is the most important part of this endeavor. Mr. Hamilton received his BA degree in History from Allegheny College and a MA from Indiana University of Pennsylvania in Student Affairs in Higher Education. His outside interests include obstacle course racing, reading and CrossFit.
Mr. Hamilton serves students with last names in the L - Q part of the alphabet.

Dr. Marie Isom is a member of the School Counseling Department and supports students with last names A–D. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology, a Master’s degree in School Counseling, and a Doctorate in Counseling Psychology. She is also a National Board Certified Teacher in School Counseling, a National Certified Counselor, and a Global Career Development Facilitator. With over 20 years of experience, Dr. Isom has served as a school counselor in three states and has worked as a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, Clinical Supervisor, university professor, and private practice clinician. She is committed to fostering student success while ensuring every student feels safe, heard, and empowered. Dr. Isom is excited to be part of the St. Mary’s Ryken community and to partner with families and students both during and after their high school experience.

Mrs. Christine Jaffurs is the Director of the School Counseling Department and supports the students with last names E-K.  Mrs. Jaffurs has earned a Bachelor of Science degree from the University of Pittsburgh and a Masters in Counseling from Johns Hopkins University.  She has been at SMR since 2007. She and her husband Alex have raised two SMR Alumni, Nicholas 2018 and Gina 2022. Mrs. Jaffurs takes a very holistic approach with students supporting them emotionally, socially, academically and spiritually.  She is also a certified yoga instructor who teaches in the community. She is excited to support your student and work alongside with you throughout their high school years and beyond.  She serves students with last names in the E - K part of the alphabet.

Ms. Holly Kaufmann is a school counselor supporting students with last names R-Z. She is a 2016 graduate of St. Mary’s Ryken, holds a B.A. in Psychology from Ave Maria University, and is completing her Master’s of Education in School Counseling through Liberty University. Ms. Kaufmann has been at St. Mary’s Ryken since 2020, first teaching theology, and now serving in the school counseling department since 2024. Her favorite part of St. Mary’s Ryken is the vibrant faith community. Ms. Kaufmann looks forward to working with you and your student, accompanying them through their years at St. Mary’s Ryken.