HAMPTON, Va. (Sept. 16, 2020) — Dr. Marquis Norton, Hampton University associate professor in the School of Liberal Arts and Education, was recently featured on ABC News’ World News Now program because of his innovative use of the Tik Tok social media app to raise awareness about mental health. Click here to view Dr. Norton’ssegment on ABC.
“Congratulations to Dr. Marquis Norton on being recognized for his efforts on this newest social media platform. We are proud of our talented alumni and faculty members for continuing to illustrate THE Standard of Excellence that Hamptonians display daily. Dr. Norton’s cutting-edge use of social media is further proof of the world-class education that our students receive from our amazing faculty here at Hampton University,” said Dr. William R. Harvey, Hampton University President.
Dr. Norton uses his social media platforms to address everything from alcohol abuse to toxic relationships to negative coping skills. Visitors to his pages are bound to find information on at least a few topics that may resonate with them. Presently, Norton has amassed a following of 117K followers and 1.62 million likes on Tik Tok and 13.6K followers on Instagram. Dr. Norton’s social media impact has also drawn the attention of other major media outlets like CNN, Vice and Cosmopolitan. There he has shared his expertise on topics ranging from seeking therapy during a pandemic, parents eavesdropping on their kids’ virtual therapy sessions to being named one of the 10 best therapists on Tik Tok.
“COVID-19 has pushed our world into the Information Age. Social distancing and quarantine have skyrocketed the use of technology. Apps that are fun and non intimidating are a great way to target and educate Millennials and Gen Z,” said Dr. Norton. “The momentum Tik Tok has gained solidifies technologies place in the today’s world.”
Norton, a 2009 Hampton University graduate, has been a member of the Department of Counseling faculty since 2017.
“The Department of Counseling continues to be THE Standard of Excellence as demonstrated by Dr. Norton’s use of Tik Tok,” said Dr. Richard Mason, associate professor and Counseling Department Chair. “We challenge our students in our teaching to develop innovative ways to work with clients using technology, especially during this pandemic which is appearing to be our new normal.”