22
RESHAPING THE F U T U R E O F H E A LT H C A R E IN EAST TEXAS
UT TYLER MAGAZINE UTTYLER.EDU
UT TYLER PHOTO
CREDIT TKTKT
Bonner Elementary School students are pictured with UT Tyler President Julie V. Philley, MD, (left) and Dr. Marty Crawford, Tyler ISD superintendent, (right) at the UT Tyler School of Medicine Building opening celebration. The students are proudly wearing white coats as a symbol of the future of healthcare.
S U M M E R
2 0 2 6
⁄
V O L.
4
I S S U E
1
President Julie V. Philley, MD Publisher Jeff Noblitt
D E PA R T M E N T S
18
News
2
UT TYLER MAGAZINE
4 Building the Future, One Engineer at a Time Expansion of Ronald D. Brazzel Endowment extends namesake's vision 10 Big Names, Big Entertainment UT Tyler Cowan Center unveils 2026-27 season
Athletics
28
Design Pentagram Austin Writers Sydney Baker Emily Battle Christine Broussard Hannah Buchanan Sarah Jo Buchanan Beverley Golden Dalton Johnson Elizabeth Wingfield Jordan Zavala
Alumni
36 Five Questions With Cedric Golden ’91
On the Cover
Photography by Jonathan McSwain
UT Tyler Magazine is published annually by the Office of Marketing and Communications at The University of Texas at Tyler.
F E AT U R E S 22 Reshaping the Future of Healthcare in East Texas UT Tyler celebrates completion of the School of Medicine Building
22
UT Tyler is an equal opportunity employer and educational institution. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to: The University of Texas at Tyler Office of Marketing and Communications 3900 University Blvd. Tyler, TX 75799 (903) 566-6162 www.uttyler.edu UT Tyler Magazine, Summer 2026, Vol. 4, Issue 1
BY ELIZABETH WINGFIELD
28 From Promise to Practice School of Medicine expands education, research and patient care access across East Texas. BY SARAH JO BUCHANAN
32 For East Texas, By East Texas How community partnerships help UT Tyler advance regional healthcare BY CHRISTINE BROUSSARD
PHOTO CREDITS: 18: LANG WHITE; 22: JONATHAN MCSWAIN; 28: NASH WEERASEKERA
18 A Hometown Home Run Softball alum Sam Schott named NCAA Woman of the Year 20 Legends Take the Stage UT Tyler's 2026 Athletics Hall of Fame Inductees
UTTYLER.EDU
Editor Emily Battle
Health
15 Soaring to New Heights UT Tyler launches one of the nation's first flight nursing programs 16 Care for Every Age University opens East Texas' first integrated speech and audiology clinic for children and adults
Managing Editor Beverley Golden
F R O M
T H E
P R E S I D E N T
Opening the Doors to Opportunity T H I S S P R I N G marked an extraordinary milestone for UT Tyler as we celebrated the grand opening of the School of Medicine Building, which symbolizes the vision we hold for East Texas. In just a short time, the School of Medicine has made remarkable progress — attracting exceptional students, recruiting distinguished faculty and building programs that reflect the highest standards of academic excellence. Equally inspiring is the generosity of our community. The growing momentum of gifts to our health programs reflects a shared commitment to improving healthcare access, training the next generation
CONTRIBUTORS
of physicians and building a healthier future for all. I invite you to read all about it in this issue, and I truly hope you will come tour the new building and see for yourself what East Texas has built. The opening of this building is not simply the start of a new chapter — it’s the beginning of a new era of opportunity for East Texas.
Sincerely,
Julie V. Philley, MD President
BEHIND THE LINES
Jonathan McSwain
SUMMER 2026 3
UT Tyler's senior director of creative services, Jonathan McSwain is an enterprise brand and creative leader and an internationally award-winning photographer with more than 14 years of experience in higher education marketing. Outside of his professional work, he enjoys spending time with his wife, Dana, and pursuing personal creative endeavors.
↑ Luke Schwartz, a fourth-year medical student, speaks to the standingroom-only crowd at the UT Tyler School of Medicine Building grand opening.
Self-taught Nash Weerasekera makes Illustrations, paintings and cocktails — both for himself and clients. Born in Sri Lanka, he moved to Australia to study architecture at the Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology and currently lives in London.
UTTYLER.EDU
UT TYLER PHOTO
Nash Weerasekera
C ON TEN TS →
MASTER PLAN UPDATE
STUDENT SUCCESS P. 08
VICTORIA OKAFOR PAT R I O T P R O F I L E P. 09
+ MORE
4
UT TYLER MAGAZINE
P. 06
INVESTING IN
DONOR PROFILE
UTTYLER.EDU
EXPANSION OF RONALD D. BRAZZEL ENDOWMENT EXTENDS VISION OF ITS NAMESAKE BY CHRISTINE BROUSSARD
ILLUSTRATION BY MATT CHINWORTH (ISPOT)
Building the Future, One Engineer at a Time
R O N A L D D . B R A Z Z E L spent his life building a thriving career in the engineering sector — and then he spent his retirement ensuring future engineers, especially in East Texas, could do the same. Brazzel, who had a three-decade career with Howe-Baker International in Tyler, impacted the industry at all levels through volunteerism and giving. He served as the UT Tyler Engineering Advisory Board’s first chairman and then, just before his retirement as Howe-Baker’s president and CEO in 2002, he endowed the first profes-
ents are willing to give of their time and treasure to ensure our continued success. The college and I have benefited greatly from the Brazzel professorship in ways that I believe have contributed to our rising national profile.” Dr. Mena Souliman, chair and professor of the Department of Civil and Construction Engineering and Management, has held the Ronald D. Brazzel Endowed Professorship in civil engineering since 2021. Through this endowment’s support, he is able to further engage in research focused on improving the
UT TYLER FACULTY MEMBER RELEASES FIRST MAJOR STUDIO ALBUM Starting piano studies at age 4, Anna Larson later discovered a passion for the violin that would lead her to pursue a life of music. As an avid chamber musician and coach, Larson frequently performs with her husband, Kaden. The duo has now published their first major studio album as part of a collaborative ensemble known as consonari — a group they started in 2019 while students at Indiana University. ¶ Released July 24, “Tell Me a Story” explores music inspired by literature, legend and folk tradition. “We wanted to create something to share the joy and magic of music and the stories it tells,” says Larson, a UT Tyler adjunct lecturer who teaches applied violin and chamber music classes. ¶ As a sponsored ensemble of the national Collaborative Musicians’ Project, consonari coaches and performs with members of its Youth Chamber Music Program and presents workshops in K-12 schools across the country. — HANNAH BUCHANAN
UTTYLER.EDU
BRAZZELS: COURTESY OF THE BRAZZEL FAMILY; LARSONS: COURTESY OF ANNA LARSON
DR. JAVIER KYPUROS COLLEGE OF ENGINEERING DEAN
↓ Ronald D. and Mary Mosley Brazzel were dedicated to community service and improving lives in East Texas.
durability and sustainability of transportation infrastructure, particularly asphalt pavements. With the recent expansion of the professorship, Souliman is looking forward to new industry collaborations and untapped avenues for experiential learning. “The additional support helps create opportunities to expand research activities and involve more students in meaningful hands-on work,” Souliman says. “Support from the professorship can help provide resources for student researchers, laboratory materials and collaboration opportunities with industry and transportation agencies.” Dr. Shih-Feng Chou, associate professor in the Department of Mechanical Engineering, has held the Ronald D. Brazzel Endowed Professorship in mechanical engineering also since 2021. The professorship’s expanded funding will help Chou further his research impact, “such as enabling novel drug carriers for dual-drug stage-release ability, strengthening interdisciplinary collaborations with faculty in the UT Tyler School of Medicine and enriching students’ research experiences beyond the classroom.” Brazzel spent his career building systems that lasted. Today, through an expanded endowment made possible by his late wife, that same approach continues — supporting faculty, empowering students and ensuring that engineering excellence in East Texas remains strong for generations to come.
5
THE BRAZZEL ENDOWMENT HAS ENABLED US TO PROVIDE CRITICAL DEVELOPMENT OPPORTUNITIES FOR JUNIOR FACULTY.”
ۄAnna Larson, a UT Tyler adjunct lecturer, and her husband, Kaden, debuted “Tell Me a Story,” a fusion of folk and classical music.
SUMMER 2026
sorship in the university’s College of Engineering. Brazzel passed away in December 2014. “He wanted the opportunity to help academically talented young men and women pursue their degrees at a reputable engineering school without having to go hundreds of miles off to college,” says Jennifer Hunt, Brazzel’s daughter, an ’88 and ’98 graduate of UT Tyler. “He had a strong sense of community — as both of my parents participated in community service organizations — and thought it would be beneficial to improve our own city.” Now, more than two decades later, the Brazzel endowment has been expanded by a significant gift given through the estate of Mary Mosley Brazzel, Ronald Brazzel’s wife, upon her passing in 2025. The endowment supports two professorships at UT Tyler — one in civil engineering and the other in mechanical engineering. “The Ronald D. Brazzel Endowed Professorship has enabled us to provide critical development opportunities for junior faculty,” says Dr. Javier Kypuros, dean of UT Tyler’s College of Engineering. “What we do as educators, scholars and researchers is impactful and meaningful — so much so that key constitu-
NEWS
AROUND CAMPUS
A Vision Taking Shape: Master Plan Update
T H E U T T Y L E R is building with intention, ensuring that the campus not only meets today’s needs but also embraces the opportunities and aspirations of the future. Guided by UT Tyler's Master Plan, the university started a series of construction efforts in the spring that reflect a deep commitment to creating
spaces that elevate learning, strength- ↑ A redesigned main entrance on en community and support the success University Boulevard of every student. What’s emerging is not will serve as a just new infrastructure — it’s a bold insignature gateway vestment in the university’s future. to the main campus. (Conceptual Drawing) One of the most visible initial efforts is the expansion of campus parking, a direct response to one of the most consistent needs expressed by students,
faculty and staff. This project, which will add more than 250 parking spaces on the main campus, will significantly improve access and convenience across campus. Several academic and cultural spaces are also being renewed. The Robert R. Muntz Library is being reimagined to create more welcoming,
CONCEPTUAL DRAWING:UT TYLER
UTTYLER.EDU
6
UT TYLER MAGAZINE
BY BEVERLEY GOLDEN
UT TYLER HAS STEPPED INTO ONE OF THE MOST TRANSFORMATIVE ERAS IN ITS HISTORY, WITH A WAVE OF CONSTRUCTION AND RENOVATION PROJECTS DESIGNED TO RESHAPE THE CAMPUS FOR DECADES TO COME.
Accounting Alum Named Top 10 Texas CPA Exam Candidate
— HANNAH BUCHANAN
UTTYLER.EDU
UT Tyler accounting alum Rachel Boshers Norris of Longview was honored by the Texas State Board of Public Accountancy as one of the top 10 candidates in the state for outstanding performance on the Uniform Certified Public Accountant Examination. ¶ This distinction is awarded to the 10 candidates in Texas who achieve the highest cumulative scores on the CPA licensure exam while taking each section only once and completing all four sections within 12 months. ¶ “This is a remarkable achievement, and we are thrilled to see Rachel honored as one of the top 10 candidates in Texas,” says Dr. Veronda Willis, UT Tyler associate professor of accounting and graduate program director. ¶ Norris graduated from UT Tyler in 2023 and holds bachelor’s and master’s degrees in accounting. She works at PriceWaterhouseCoopers Inc. in Houston. ¶ “I owe much of my success to UT Tyler and the dedication of their faculty,” says Norris. “The personalized instruction and mentoring I received helped set me up for success.”
7
CONCEPTUAL DRAWING: UT TYLER
ACADEMIC DISTINCTION
SUMMER 2026
The R. Don Cowan Fine and Performing Arts Center, a cornerstone of campus and community, is undergoing updates that will strengthen its role as a premier venue for events, performances and celebrations. The Longview University Center’s Garland Hall is undergoing renovations to classroom, laboratory, study/lounge and adminis- ↓ A new residence hall will expand trative spaces. on-campus Preparations are underway for a new housing offerings residence hall that will expand on-camand enrich student pus living options and foster deeper engagement. student engagement. Modern housing (Conceptual Drawing)
plays a crucial role in building community, supporting academic success and creating a vibrant campus life. This project will help meet those needs for years to come. Beyond these major initiatives, UT Tyler launched a series of deferred maintenance projects across campus, including at the Health Science Center. These improvements — often behind the scenes — are essential to ensuring that classrooms, labs and common spaces remain safe, reliable and welcoming. Academic growth is also shaping the campus footprint. The Soules College of Business is expanding upward with the completion of the fourth floor to create new classrooms, collaboration areas and faculty spaces that support one of UT Tyler’s fastest growing colleges. Construction is scheduled to begin in September. Meanwhile, a major reimagining of campus roadways will introduce a new gateway entrance and pedestrian bridge, improving safety, traffic flow and the overall sense of arrival to campus. Phased construction is set to begin in October. Taken together, these projects represent far more than construction. UT Tyler has stepped into one of the most transformative eras in its history, with a wave of construction and renovation projects designed to reshape the campus for decades to come.
NEWS
functional study environments that better support the way students learn today. Braithwaite Recital Hall is receiving lighting enhancements that will elevate performances and enrich the experience for both artists and audiences.
NEWS
BUILDING SKILLS FOR LIFE
8
UT TYLER MAGAZINE
UT Tyler Hosts Spring 2026 Ratliff Relays
REMOVING FINANCIAL BARRIERS
Investing in Student Success BMW OF TYLER PATRIOT GOLF CLASSIC RAISES FUNDS FOR SCHOLARSHIPS
UTTYLER.EDU
BY HANNAH BUCHANAN
T H E 2 0 2 6 B M W of Tyler Patriot Golf Classic raised $123,350 to benefit the UT Tyler scholarship program. This year’s tournament took place April 20 at the Cascades Golf and Country Club in Tyler. “Every scholarship created through this tournament represents a student who can focus on learning rather than worrying about financial barriers,” says UT Tyler Provost Dr. Barbara K. Haas, PhD. “We are grateful to our volunteers, participants and community for their commitment and belief in our students.” Since 1986, the Patriot Golf Classic has been one of the university’s largest annual fundraisers benefiting UT Tyler student scholarships at its campuses in Tyler, Longview, Palestine and Houston. Thanks to alumni, individuals and businesses who donate to the Classic, UT Tyler has raised nearly $3 million for the PGC student scholarship endowment.
Each year, deserving students are selected to receive scholarships for the academic school year. Along with the university’s strong focus on scholarships, the BMW of Tyler Patriot Golf Classic also serves as a platform across East Texas to highlight UT Tyler students and share the Patriot story. The Patriot Golf Classic Committee organizes the tournament and includes representatives of East Texas businesses. The 2026 committee included: Lee Trammell, chair; Stan Anderson, Jeff Austin III, Adam Attaway, Cory Bowler, Tim Cairns, Les Campbell, Mike Clendenin, Dr. Sam Ferguson, Carl Hiltpold, Rob Lamberson, Denise Malley, Roy Martinez, Michael McMunn, Gabriel Mendoza, Matthew Ramirez, Benjamin Romines, Tom Seale, James Sheridan, Pat Stacey, Jim Teeter, Blake Thompson, Jay Ward and Don Warren.
The UT Tyler College of Engineering hosted the spring 2026 Ratliff Relays for East Texas high schoolers. This year, 80 students from four schools designed, built and tested popsicle stick bridges and towers in teams at the UT Tyler Robert R. Muntz Library. ¶ UT Tyler COE students and faculty mentored the participants as they learned technical skills and teamwork in a supportive environment. ¶ “Participants discovered how the skills applied to these builds can be relevant to any engineering major,” says Dr. Carla Lacerda, UT Tyler professor and event coordinator. “At the end of the day, they learned about the engineering programs at UT Tyler, met with educators and received guidance on their future career paths.” ¶ The annual spring event was part of this year’s Engineering Week activities hosted by the college in collaboration with education partners. — H B
P A T R I O T
P R O F I L E
UT TYLER PHOTO
When she first arrived on campus, Okafor was amazed by the beautiful scenery — the parklike lakes, green trees and vibrant wildlife — but she was even more impressed by the real-world experience she gained through the rigorous nursing coursework. ¶ “UT Tyler isn’t just a place to get a degree,” says Okafor. “It’s a dynamic force that blends academic rigor with genuine commitment to the region’s well-being.” ¶ Okafor quickly sought ways to get involved on campus. During her three years at UT Tyler, she has served as a chemistry and statistics tutor, worked as a resident assistant and actively
—SYDNEY BAKER
Wylie High School Wylie, TX 2019-2023
ACTIVITIES
UT Tyler Student Government Association Former President and Senator 2023-2026 Presidential Rose Scholar 2025-2026 National Student Nurses’ Association President and Former Vice President and Treasurer 2025-2026 Liberty Landing Resident Assistant 2024-2025 African Student Association 2023-2026 Black Student Association 2023-2026 Chemistry & Statistics Tutor 2023-2024
UTTYLER.EDU
at Wylie High School, Okafor worked diligently to gain the skills needed to succeed in college and beyond. She actively participated in various extracurricular activities, from sports like track, powerlifting and soccer, to a leadership position in the school’s African Student Organization and with the Texas chapter of Health Occupations Students of America — Future Health Professionals. When she and her family started looking at colleges in Texas, UT Tyler stood out. ¶ “I really wanted a place that prioritized academic excellence and provided a lot of opportunities for growth,” says Okafor. ¶
E D U C AT I O N
UT Tyler BSN 2023-2026
9
Her younger sister, Olivia, was born with a congenital heart defect, and the frequent doctor appointments, hospital visits and exposure to healthcare settings inspired Okafor to become a nurse. But a life-changing event on Dec. 8, 2023, solidified her decision to pursue critical-care nursing. ¶ “I’ll always remember the day my sister received a heart transplant,” says Okafor. “The support and compassion that the nurses showed to not only Olivia but her family members as well made me realize that I wanted to be the person providing that comfort for patients in their most vulnerable times.” ¶ During her time
VICTORIA OKAFOR
SUMMER 2026
Raised just outside of Dallas in Sachse, Victoria Okafor always knew what she wanted to be when she grew up.
participated in organizations such as the African Student Association and Black Student Association. She also stepped into leadership roles, serving as president of the National Student Nurses’ Association and becoming a Presidential Rose Scholar —a leadership program that prepares outstanding students to represent the university at campus and community events. ¶ After discovering the Student Government Association, Okafor began attending general meetings and became a senator for the School of Nursing, which was a natural fit with her career aspirations. ¶ “Nursing is closely tied with SGA because they’re both fundamentally about student advocacy and translating needs to actionable things before the university administration and Texas Legislature,” says Okafor. ¶ At first, Okafor worried about balancing all her extracurriculars. After speaking with former SGA presidents Chloe Dix and Allison Schwartz, she found the confidence to run for president with a simple message: A Victoria for one is a victory for all. ¶ Throughout her time at UT Tyler, Okafor has grown from a student to a leader who can advocate for fellow students and patients. As president, Okafor's goal was to bolster the student experience by building connections with university leadership, Texas legislators and donors. ¶ “I felt like students needed more of a voice and more knowledge about what was going on behind the scenes,” says Okafor. ¶ As she looks to the future, Okafor will certainly miss UT Tyler — the people, the classes and the ability to learn in a structured environment. But she’s confident that she will succeed in whatever lies ahead. ¶ “I’ve grown exponentially since my freshman year,” says Okafor.
NEWS
FOREIGNER
LEANN RIMES AN EVENING OF ALTON BROWN
10
UT TYLER MAGAZINE
THE OAK RIDGE BOYS BEETLEJUICE
SEASON LINEUP
UT Tyler Cowan Center: Big Names, Big Entertainment U T T Y L E R R. Don Cowan Fine and Performing Arts Center unveiled its 2026– 27 season, a dynamic lineup that brings some of the most celebrated names in music, Broadway, entertainment and storytelling to East Texas. With chart topping artists, smash hit musicals and nationally recognized performers, the upcoming season promises to be one of the Cowan Center’s most exciting and wide ranging yet. “As a gathering place for arts and entertainment, we are proud to offer a season that reflects the interests and passions of our community,” says Jeff Noblitt, UT Tyler Cowan Center executive director. “This lineup reflects our commitment to enriching the cultural life of our region and providing ex-
periences that resonate long after the curtain falls.”
Season Highlights
• LeAnn Rimes, Sept. 26 — The multiplatinum, Grammy Awardwinning vocalist brings her powerhouse voice and emotional artistry to the stage for an intimate, soaring evening of music. • Foreigner, Oct. 10 — One of rock’s most enduring and beloved bands performs its legendary catalog of hits, delivering the anthems that defined a generation. • “Beetlejuice,” Nov. 12 — The hit Broadway musical arrives with its signature blend of outrageous humor, eye-popping visuals and
PHOTO COURTESY OF UT TYLER COWAN CENTER
UTTYLER.EDU
BY BEVERLEY GOLDEN
a story that’s both wildly fun and surprisingly heartfelt. • “An Evening of Alton Brown,” Nov. 14 — The bestselling author, television personality and culinary innovator takes the stage for a one-of-a-kind blend of storytelling, food science and comedy. • The Oak Ridge Boys, Nov. 19 — The iconic quartet returns on their farewell tour, celebrating decades of chart topping country and gospel music. • “Mannheim Steamroller,” Dec. 19 — America’s favorite holiday tradition for more than 40 years, this show by Grammy Award winner Chip Davis features Mannheim Steamroller Christmas classics. • Clint Black, March 12 — A country music legend, he rocketed to fame with five No. 1 hits from his triple-platinum debut and earned dozens more chart-topping singles throughout the ’90s. • “Hadestown,” March 29 — This acclaimed musical by singer-songwriter Anaïs Mitchell and director Rachel Chavkin won eight Tony Awards and a Grammy Award® for Best Musical Theater Album. • “Bluey’s Big Play,” April 15 — The stage show brings Australia’s favorite family to life in a playful 45-
Music Icon Bob Dylan Takes Cowan Stage
NEWS
SPECIAL GUEST
FOLK-ROCK TRAILBLAZER BRINGS TIMELESS SOUND TO CAMPUS BY HANNAH BUCHANAN
minute performance packed with music, imagination and big heart.
↑ Clint Black will take the Cowan Center stage March 12.
Other acts and artists will include: Broadway
Music
11
• Delfeayo Marsalis and the Uptown Jazz Orchestra, The King’s Sing ۄBob Dylan's solders, “Mariachi Herencia de Mexiout spring concert co: A Mariachi Christmas,” Danny at the Cowan was Gokey and U.S. Army Field Band part of his "Rough and Rowdy Ways" Jazz Ambassadors celebrating world tour. America’s 250th.
worldwide. His memberships include the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, Nashville Songwriters Hall of Fame and Songwriters Hall of Fame. Dylan received a special Pulitzer Prize citation in 2008 for his impact on popular music and American culture. He is the first musician to receive the Nobel Prize for Literature for creating new poetic expressions within the American song tradition.
SUMMER 2026
• “A Beautiful Noise: The Neil Diamond Musical,” “Waitress,” “Shucked” and a special Thanksgiving weekend performance of Dolly Parton’s “Smoky Mountain Christmas Carol.”
L E G E N D A R Y singer/songwriter Bob Dylan performed April 29 in front of a sold-out East Texas crowd at the UT Tyler R. Don Cowan Fine and Performing Arts Center. The concert was part of Dylan’s monumental “Rough and Rowdy Ways” world tour. With a folk and rock music career spanning nearly 70 years, Dylan has sold an estimated 125 million records
Dance and Cirque
• Martha Graham Dance Company, American Ballet Theatre Studio Company and “Cirque Mechanics Tilt!”
Public performances for families and daytime school group audiences: • “Curious George and The Golden Meatball,” “Clifford the Big Red Dog” and ERTH’s “Dinosaur Zoo Live.” “This is the most expansive season we’ve ever brought to East Texas, with more announcements to come,” Noblitt says. “This level of variety ensures that audiences can discover something new while also celebrating the artists they love.” For more information, contact the Cowan Center box office at 903.566.7424 or online at cowancenter.org. Box office hours are 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. Monday through Friday.
UTTYLER.EDU
PHOTO COURTESY OF UT TYLER COWAN CENTER
Family and Arts in Education Series
NEWS
STUDENT PROFILE
Rising Leader HONORS STUDENT APPOINTED TO STATE COMMITTEE
T Y L E R N AT I V E John Schnell is passionate about education and strives to make a difference in his community. He now has the unique opportunity to make a difference at the state level. A junior biochemistry major and Honors College student at UT Tyler, Schnell was recently approved by Texas Gov. Greg Abbott to serve a two-year term as the student representative on the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board’s Learning Technology Advisory Committee. LTAC engages in policy research and discussion on technology use in higher education, making recommendations to the board. The committee also investigates how distance education and computer-assisted instruction, including e-learning tools — like electronic textbooks — can help the state reach its future talent and technology goals. “We’re so proud of John and the great work he will do representing students across the state,” says Dr. Paul Streufert, UT Tyler professor and Honors College founding dean. LTAC membership currently includes representatives from public community and technical colleges, universities and health-related institutions, along with one student member. Student representative selection is based on academics, interests and leadership skills. Schnell is honored to “represent the student voice in Texas during this exciting time” as the position, he notes, aligns perfectly with his educational interests. “I hope my appointment to the LTAC will provide an opportunity to represent the student perspective across Texas while learning from leaders in higher education, technology and public policy,” says Schnell. “As technology continues to transform education, I look forward to contributing to discussions about how digital learning tools can improve student success, accessibility and engagement.” Additionally, he hopes to utilize this opportunity to better understand how policy decisions are developed and implemented statewide.
1
“Every day, advancements in technology are becoming more powerfully integrated into every aspect of our lives, including education. This comes with amazing benefits, but it also comes with responsibilities — it requires thoughtful planning around topics such as security, ethics and accessibility,” Schnell says. “It’s a privilege to represent students and contribute to discussions that will help shape the future of learning and technology in higher education. I am excited to learn from experienced leaders across the state and to bring a student perspective to the committee’s work.” When Schnell first learned about the committee, its work piqued his curiosity. “Through my Eagle Scout project and volunteering full time at Andrews Behavioral Health for two years, I have been able to closely monitor and engage with local and state government,” he notes. “I enjoyed those experiences and was eager to apply when Dr. Streufert nominated me for THECB committees and was especially eager to apply for LTAC, since its purpose parallels my goals in implementation science.” Having been familiar with UT Tyler growing up, Schnell eventually chose the university because of the close-knit community he found during his college search. “UT Tyler offers incredible opportunities and resources, while maintaining a small student-to-teacher ratio that lets professors take real interest in student success,” he adds. At UT Tyler, he stays active with extracurricular activities that align with his passion for Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics education, or STEM. Working with faculty and fellow classmates in the College of Arts and Sciences, Schnell has served as the founding president of The Lab Rats at UT Tyler — a science outreach organization that designs, practices and presents interactive chemistry demonstrations for local K-12 students. Schnell also enjoys being engaged in the UT Tyler American Medical Student Association, American Chemical Society
1
student chapter and the various Honors College activities at the university. Outside of school, his hobbies include gardening, studying history and music. Since 2023, he has served as the organist for weekly services at his church. “Any time I get to travel, I like to research organs in the area and try to get in touch with the organists,” he adds. “This has led to opportunities to play the organs at some amazing and historic sites such as Dartmouth College, the Old North Church in Boston and Christ Church in Philadelphia.” Schnell will graduate from UT Tyler in May 2028 with a Bachelor of Science degree in biochemistry. Upon graduation, he plans to attend medical school and eventually earn a master’s degree in implementation science.
ART BY NAILA CONITA (UNSPLASH)
UTTYLER.EDU
12
UT TYLER MAGAZINE
BY HANNAH BUCHANAN
BY BEVERLEY GOLDEN
1
A Texas native, Sutton previously served at UT Tyler as director of student development, helping shape the student experience during a formative period in the university’s growth. Since then, she has built a reputation for thoughtful leadership, student advocacy and organizational excellence through leadership roles at the University of Mississippi, UT Austin and SMU. She is also actively involved in several national professional organizations and earned her Ph.D. in higher education administration from UT Austin, a master’s degree in education from Indiana University and a bachelor’s degree from SMU. “With her commitment to student success, expertise in student well-being and understanding of both UT Tyler and our region, I am confident she will make a meaningful impact on the lives of our students and campus community,” Haas says.
2
1
2
UTTYLER.EDU
D R . D . R O B E R T D E H A A S has been appointed dean of the UT Tyler School of Education. “Dr. DeHaas has built a remarkable career redefining what modern edu-
DR. BARBARA K. HAAS, PHD, RN Provost
13
NEW LEADERS TO ADVANCE EDUCATION AND STUDENT SUCCESS
DR. MELINDA SUTTON IS A NATIONALLY RESPECTED LEADER IN STUDENT AFFAIRS, AND HER EXPERIENCE AND ENERGY WILL STRENGTHEN THE MOMENTUM WE’RE BUILDING FOR OUR STUDENTS AT UT TYLER”
SUMMER 2026
Supporting Excellence
odist University, providing leadership for student support programs, health services, student engagement and campus life.
NEWS
L E A D E R S H I P U P D AT E S
cator preparation can look like,” says UT Tyler Provost Dr. Barbara K. Haas, PhD. “He has distinguished himself as a leader with a strong ability to design systems, grow programs and respond directly to community and workforce needs, which makes him an exceptional fit for UT Tyler as we continue to expand our academic footprint.” Earlier this year, UT Tyler announced plans to re-imagine its School of Education to help address the teacher shortage in East Texas and partner with school districts to help strengthen the region’s K-12 outcomes. DeHaas served as Dallas College vice provost, where he founded and led the development of one of the state’s most innovative educator preparation programs. His work has been defined by a commitment to student success, workforce alignment and meaningful partnerships with school districts and community stakeholders. Under his leadership, Dallas College launched the state’s first bachelor’s degree in education at a community college and developed teacher residency and apprenticeship models that are influencing practice across the state. His efforts have resulted in substantial external funding and strengthened pathways into the teaching profession. DeHaas also brings a collaborative leadership approach grounded in faculty engagement and shared governance. He has remained an active faculty member, ensuring his leadership is informed by the realities of the classroom and the student experience. “I am honored to join The University of Texas at Tyler at such an important moment for East Texas,” says DeHaas. “The opportunity to reimagine educator preparation in partnership with our K-12 schools and communities is both urgent and inspiring. Together, I am confident we will build strong, aligned pathways into the teaching profession that expand access, strengthen the workforce and ultimately improve outcomes for students across the region.” Dr. Melinda J. Sutton is the new vice president for student affairs. “Dr. Melinda Sutton is a nationally respected leader in student affairs, and her experience and energy will strengthen the momentum we’re building for our students at UT Tyler,” Haas says. Sutton recently served as the associate vice president for student affairs and dean of students at Southern Meth-
O P E N I N G C E L E B R AT I O N
C ON TEN TS →
CARE FOR EVERY AGE
PLEURAL INFECTION TREATMENT P. 17
14
D R . J E N I F E R C H I LT O N N A M E D S C H O O L O F N U R S I N G D E A N
Shaping the Future of Caring
1
Chilton’s early interest in health led her in a different direction before she found her true calling. In high school, she enjoyed performing on the drill team, which was not only fun but also taught her the value of hard work and pushing through challenges to achieve goals. The drill team leader also reinforced the teachings of Chilton’s health instructor, emphasizing the importance of physical fitness. Following in their footsteps, Chilton studied biology with a minor in health at UT Austin, planning to become a high school health teacher and drill team leader. But uncertainty settled in when Chilton began student teaching. She began thinking nursing might be a better fit. Close to graduating at the time, she went ahead and completed her bachelor’s degree in education. She then CONTINUED ON PG. 45
PHOTO BY JONATHAN MCSWAIN
UTTYLER.EDU
1
Appointed dean in March, Chilton has helped prepare students in the School of Nursing to serve East Texans’ healthcare needs for more than 20 years. A professor of nursing, she became the interim dean in August 2025. Prior to that, she served five years as the associate dean of academic affairs, playing a key role in advancing the academic mission of the school. “A highly respected member of our School of Nursing faculty, Dr. Chilton brings a spirit of innovation and collaboration, along with a deep commitment to the university’s mission,” says UT Ty-
MORE
Finding Her Path
B Y E M I LY B AT T L E
L O N G B E F O R E becoming dean of the UT Tyler School of Nursing, Dr. Jenifer Chilton was a high school student in Richardson, Texas, listening closely as her health teacher delivered a simple message: Practicing healthy habits in your youth will shape the life you live as an adult. For Chilton, that ninth-grade lesson was, in her words, an “early epiphany” that would guide not only her lifestyle choices but also her path to becoming a nurse and educator. She began living healthier — and wanted to help others do the same.
+
ler Provost Dr. Barbara K. Haas, PhD. “Those qualities — combined with her passion for fostering an environment that encourages growth, confidence and excellence — will help the School of Nursing continue making meaningful contributions to the profession and to the communities we serve.” The School of Nursing began in 1975 as a small nursing division at Texas Eastern University, which became UT Tyler in 1979. Today, UT Tyler has one of the largest nursing schools in the state, with programs consistently ranked among the best in the nation. Chilton attributes the school’s success to its deep-rooted tradition of caring for students and East Texas communities. “Dr. Doris Reiman, our founding chair, built this school on a philosophy of caring that still defines the School of Nursing to this day,” she says. “It continues to shape how we prepare students for meaningful nursing careers.”
UT TYLER MAGAZINE
P. 16
$1 MILLION TO DEVELOP
CRITICAL TRAINING
Soaring to New Heights UT TYLER LAUNCHES ONE OF THE NATION'S FIRST FLIGHT NURSING PROGRAMS FEATURING A FLIGHT SIMULATOR
15 UTTYLER.EDU
AS THE HELICOPTER TAKES OFF, you feel your weight shift, sinking into the seat. You and the paramedic move in synchrony as you treat the patient, a dance honed by years of experience. Your motions happen without conscious thought, despite the distractions: the constant vibration, the cumbersome helmet, the surge of adrenaline, the sting of sweat in your eyes. The rapid whir of the blades and crackle of the radio thrum in your ears. You blink — and it’s over. The helicopter has landed, and you’re wheeling the patient out to the helipad team. “I don’t remember much of my first flight — except that it was over before I knew it,” says Dr. Carlton Rojas, the UT Tyler School of Nursing critical care transportation education director, who has served as both a flight nurse and paramedic. “When you’re on a helicopter, it’s just the nurse and paramedic in a confined space with some of the sickest patients. Succeeding in this role requires both having a certain amount of knowledge and using it under pressure.” UT Tyler’s new flight nursing program, which is the second nationally to have a flight simulator, will equip students to do both. Michael Lawyer, UT Health East Texas air operation director, knew from his own experience as a flight nurse and paramedic that those roles required a unique skillset. In 2022, he approached Julie V. Philley, MD, the current UT Tyler president who was the executive vice president for health affairs at the time, and university leadership with
ties for students with the UT Health East Texas air operations team. Besides simulations, the two-semester continuing education program offers students the opportunity to shadow onboard hospital helicopters and complete a variety of rotations, including ambulances, neurological critical care, trauma critical care, pediatric and emergency neonates. “As far as I’m aware, this is the only flight program in the nation that includes this depth of instruction and breadth of clinical rotations for nurses and paramedics,” says Rojas. “We want to ensure our adult intensive care unit nurses work with children and that our emergency room nurses practice critical care, just as they would on a flight crew.” The critical care transportation program offers students not just academic training but the opportunity to respond to the community’s need for quality care that can span East Texas within minutes. A better-equipped flight crew means better patient outcomes and more lives saved. “When they were unloading the helicopter for the simulation, I just had the biggest grin on my face,” says Lawyer. “After years of waiting, I finally got to see this idea come to fruition. I truly believe this program will benefit our community in ways I can’t even imagine, setting a new standard for a higher level of care in our region, our state and our nation.”
SUMMER 2026
UT TYLER PHOTO
BY ELIZABETH WINGFIELD
an idea: a flight nursing program with a helicopter simulator. Many flight nursing programs were online, leading to students missing out on key parts of the experience, such as working with a paramedic and navigating with GPS coordinates. At 56%, East Texas has the largest percentage of rural residents out of all the regions in the state, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. With so many people spread across such a vast area, having an effective flight medical crew is vitally important. “Dr. Philley’s biggest push has always been to ensure that everything the university does benefits the community,” says Lawyer. “As soon as I explained what this could do for the region, you could see the light bulbs going off.” In 2025, the UT Tyler School of Nursing accepted its first cohort of both nurses and paramedics into the critical care transportation pathway. The program reached another milestone earlier this year, when the school hosted the ribbon cutting for its flight simulator. “This is the only program of its kind that accepts both nurses and paramedics,” says Lawyer. “This is the first program in Texas, the second in the country with a flight simulator and the ↓ Dr. Carlton Rojas introduces the only one with both the tail and cockpit School of Nursing's intact. This program is not just unique Helicopter Critical regionally but nationally.” Lawyer now Care Transport helps facilitate shadowing opportuniSimulation Center.
H E A LT H
O P E N I N G C E L E B R AT I O N
Care for Every Age EAST TEXAS’ FIRST INTEGRATED SPEECH AND AUDIOLOGY CLINIC FOR PEDIATRIC AND ADULT PATIENTS
D R . A N D R E A G O H M E R T ’ S journey into audiology began with her own childhood hearing loss. At age 12, she traveled from Tyler to Dallas to treat a benign tumor that had gone undetected for years, undergoing four surgeries in two years to save her remaining hearing. Inspired by the care she received, Gohmert obtained her degree in communication sciences and disorders with the support she received from the Robert M. Rogers Foundation and Green Acres Baptist Church, before seeking her Doctor of Audiology. Thirty-three years later, while serving as the director of audiology at Callier Center for Communication Disorders in Dallas, she continued to see families traveling from East Texas. When Gohmert heard UT Tyler was starting a master’s in speech-language pathology in 2025, she jumped at the opportunity to join the School of
Health Professions as a clinical associate professor of audiology and bring those services to East Texas. “I really felt burdened, seeing all these families and kids coming over,” she says. “And for every family that did travel to Dallas, I knew there were many who weren’t able to make the drive.” In East Texas, 11% of infants fail their initial newborn hearing screening. Of those infants, 33% never go to a fol↓ Grand Opening: low-up up due to lack of access to pe(L to R) Program diatric audiology in a highly rural state. Chair Dr. Amy Louise Schwarz, Dr. This past February, UT Tyler held Andrea Gohmert, the grand opening for the Speech, UT Tyler President Language and Hearing Clinic, a trainJulie V. Philley, MD, ing ground for UT Tyler Speech-Lanand Clinic Manager guage Pathology students and the first Courtney Vinson take part in the clinic in East Texas to offer integrated Speech, Language speech and audiology therapy to paand Hearing Clinic tients across the lifespan. ribbon cutting at Located at the UT Tyler Health Scithe UT Tyler Health ence Center, the clinic is fully outfitScience Center.
HEARING AND SPEAKING AFFECT THE MOST IMPORTANT ASPECT OF OUR LIVES: CONNECTING TO OTHERS.” DR. ANDREA GOHMERT Clinical Associate Professor
“By serving at our clinic where patients are treated for both speech and hearing across the lifespan, students are better equipped to provide comprehensive care to our community,” says Dr. Amy Louise Schwarz, chair of the Department of Speech, Language and Hearing Sciences. The goal of the clinic is to address long-term care needs by training future healthcare professionals, while alleviating immediate shortages in speech and audiology services. “Hearing and speaking affect the most important aspect of our lives: connecting to others,” Gohmert says. “The clinic isn’t just about providing therapy but the vital human connection that is essential for a healthy community. Ultimately, this is the fulfillment of a lifelong dream to ensure that in East Texas, no child has to wait for the care they deserve — or travel far to find it.”
UT TYLER PHOTO
UTTYLER.EDU
16
UT TYLER MAGAZINE
BY ELIZABETH WINGFIELD
ted with state-of-the-art diagnostic technology to test infants who fail their newborn screenings, including a professional-grade hearing booth and a specialized lab to test patients suffering from dizziness, vertigo or balance issues. “This is a major win for East Texas — because quicker care and faster interventions mean elderly adults and children with hearing loss have a chance at retaining some of their hearing ability,” says Courtney Vinson, UT Tyler coordinator of clinical education and clinic manager. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, 56% of East Texans live in rural areas. By offering both services within the same clinic, patients receive care more quickly and are less likely to fall through the cracks.
H E A LT H
THIS PROJECT IS A POWERFUL EXAMPLE OF HOW UT TYLER IS ADVANCING RESEARCH THAT DIRECTLY IMPACTS PATIENT CARE.” DR. SUE COX UT Tyler School of Medicine Dean
U T T Y L E R R E C E I V E D a $971,195 grant from the National Institutes of Health Catalyze Program to support research led by Dr.Andrey Komissarov, School of Medicine professor of cellular and molecular biology. Marking the second grant of its kind for the university, this funding allows UT Tyler to partner with biotech companies to translate academic research into lifesaving care for patients. Komissarov, in collaboration with biopharmaceutical company SignaBlok, will develop a drug to improve the treatment for empyema, a pleural infection
that causes a buildup of infected fluid around the lungs. The project will create hands-on research opportunities for UT Tyler’s 1 undergraduate, graduate and medical students, who will help conduct research, analyze data and present at conferences. “This project is a powerful example of how UT Tyler is advancing research that directly impacts patient care,” says Dr. Sue Cox, School of Medicine dean. “We’re proud to support work that addresses urgent health challenges like empyema while providing meaningful
1
UTTYLER.EDU
ILLUSTRATION BY MICHAEL AUSTIN (ISPOT)
BY ELIZABETH WINGFIELD
17
University Receives Nearly $1 Million to Develop Pleural Infection Treatment
SUMMER 2026
A D VA N C I N G PAT I E N T C A R E
opportunities for our students to grow as scientists and future physicians.” Pneumonia is the leading cause of empyema, which affects up to 65,000 people in the U.S. annually. Current treatments, including drainage, surgery or clot-busting medication, aren’t always safe or effective. Clot-busting medication breaks down the solidified fluid but can lead to complications. Komissarov’s team is developing a medication to pair with existing clot busters, increasing their effectiveness while reducing the dose and risk of side effects. In rural regions like East Texas, a safer medication is a game-changer, especially for patients suffering from multiple health problems. “Many patients — especially the elderly, children or those with other health conditions — can’t safely use current clot-busting drugs,” says Komissarov. “Our therapy aims to make this treatment more accessible and effective for these vulnerable groups.” As soon as there’s sufficient research, the team will begin raising support to produce the new drug. “This paves the way for future scientists and physicians to continue this work,” says Komissarov. “None of this would be possible without the tremendous support of UT Tyler, especially President Julie Philley. Her commitment to research has been instrumental in making projects like this a reality.”
BASEBALL WINS FIRST LONE STAR CONFERENCE TOURNAMENT CHAMPIONSHIP MAY 9
18
UT TYLER MAGAZINE
FAST STAT →
AT H L E T E P R O F I L E
A Hometown Home Run SOFTBALL ALUM SAM SCHOTT NAMED NCAA WOMAN OF THE YEAR
Since 1991, female student-athletes who have completed their undergraduate studies are annually recognized for demonstrating excellence in academics, athletics and community service throughout their college careers. Schott was one of the top 30 finalists for the 2025 honor, selected from a record-breaking 631 nominees submitted by member schools across all three NCAA divisions. Mike Reed, former Patriot softball head coach, calls Schott “a true balance of excellence and kindness in everything she does.” “Sam is so deserving of this honor of NCAA Woman of the Year, which exem-
PHOTO BY LANG WHITE
UTTYLER.EDU
BY HANNAH BUCHANAN
A M O N G T H E S H I N I N G S T A R S at UT Tyler and throughout East Texas is Patriot softball alum Samantha “Sam” Schott, who hit the ultimate home run to cap off her illustrious collegiate career. A back-to-back NCAA Division II National Champion, she was named the 2025 NCAA Woman of the Year. The May 2025 UT Tyler graduate and East Texas native became the first UT Tyler student-athlete to earn the distinction. She’s just the fifth Division II athlete, third Texas athlete and second softball athlete to receive the award. The NCAA recognized Schott this year at the organization’s annual convention in Washington, D.C.
Refuge, Schott helps provide basic healthcare and surgical services to the people of Guatemala. She also supports community initiatives throughout Tyler, including the East Texas Food Bank. Her inspiration to give back stems from those who have paved the way in generosity. “Community is important,” she notes. “Without the community, I wouldn’t have the opportunities I’ve had, so I want others to have the same opportunities.”
Beyond The Diamond
Schott continues her Patriot story at UT Tyler, now as a student in the School of Medicine’s Class of 2029. She’s reaching her career goal of becoming a doctor. “I always had that inclination growing up, but it became a finalized goal for me when I attended the mission trips down in Guatemala,” recalls Schott, who holds a UT Tyler bachelor’s degree in biochemistry. “School is great. It’s amazing getting to learn how God perfectly designed us, and I’m loving it.” Schott offers the following advice to UT Tyler students on their own Patriot path. “School days can be long, and some days will be tougher than other days,” she says. “It’s a gift to attend school and pursue a degree — not everyone gets to do what you’re doing. So, you have to treat every day likes it’s a blessing, because it is.”
19
ing at schools in the Northeast then, and all the schools had to shut down,” Schott recalls, “and so, it made me question if I really wanted to go that far away from home. I had always known how successful the program was, so it was after COVID that I became interested in UT Tyler. ” She recalls touring the campus with Reed. “I loved how inviting everyone was and how beautiful the campus itself was. All the alumni talked so highly about the program as well.” What she remembers as a standout moment of celebration during her softball career stays with her. “Winning both national championships was pretty cool in and of itself,” Schott says. “After the championship game last year, the team — we all got together at the end, and we prayed with the coaches and members of our community who came out and supported us. We just gave thanks to God for how He used our team that year and for the blessings He gave to our team.” Schott’s dedication to community service and helping others is just as strong as her Christian faith and love of sports. She has served as a Fellowship of Christian Athletes speaker on campus. She also is active in her church and with the nonprofit organization Refuge International — based in her hometown of Longview — which aids medical missions worldwide. Through
SUMMER 2026
plifies her ability to excel in all areas of sport, academics, leadership and character,” says Reed, who started the Patriot softball program 21 years ago. “She has carried high expectations for herself and her teammates, leading with hard work and poise.” During her four years on the Patriot softball team, Schott played 235 games, the most in program history, and made 211 starts, the second most in program history. She is a three-time all-region selection, three-time All-Lone Star Conference selection and two-time LSC Golden Glove winner. Schott hit a .327 for her career with a 137 RBI and 59 extra base hits and holds the current UT Tyler record for sacrifice hits. She was also named the 2025 recipient of the ELITE 90 Award for softball, given to the athlete with the highest GPA at the final site of championship competition. Her other honors include College Sports Communicators Academic All-American, three-time CSC Academic All-District Honoree, 2024 Lone Star Conference Fred Jacoby Female Academic Athlete of the Year, 2024 LSC Academic Player of the Year and 2025 LSC Scholar-Athlete Awardee. “When I arrived on campus, it quickly became clear that Sam Schott was spe↓ Schott with former cial,” says UT Tyler athletics director Dr. coach Mike Reed at Sam Ferguson, who joined the univerthe NCAA Awards sity in spring 2025. in Washington, D.C. “I’ve been personally inspired by Sam and consider it a true blessing to be on her team,” Ferguson says. “Past recipients of this prestigious award include Olympic athletes, WNBA professionals and leaders in both community and industry — and those women are in elite company with Sam Schott.”
UTTYLER.EDU
PHOTO COURTESY OF THE NCAA
Lifetime Of Sports
Schott grew up in a sports-oriented family and — right off the bat — joined a little league softball team in grade school. “My parents took me to all my practices and games, but they never forced me into it,” says Schott. “Sports were always big in the family. Softball — it was just sort of my thing.” After graduating from Spring Hill High School in 2021, Schott chose UT Tyler because of its location and the legacy of the softball program. The decision, she says, arrived after much thought — and the height of the COVID-19 pandemic. “Recruiting everywhere was put on a halt during COVID. I’d only been look-
AT H L E T I C S
PAT R I O T S O F D I S T I N C T I O N
Legends Take the Stage UT TYLER’S 2026 ATHLETICS HALL OF FAME INDUCTEES
THERE IS NO MORE JOY THAN WATCHING PROGRAMS GROW TO BECOME HIGHLY SUCCESSFUL.” DR. HOWARD PATTERSON UT Tyler Hall of Fame Inductee, Former Director of Athletics
B Y D A LT O N J O H N S O N
D R. H OWA R D PAT T E R S O N, Brittany Matthews Mahomes and the 2016 softball team were inducted into the 2026 UT Tyler Athletics Hall of Fame, which honors Patriots of distinction.
Dr. Howard Patterson
PHOTO BY LANG WHITE
UTTYLER.EDU
20
UT TYLER MAGAZINE
Patterson served as director of athletics for the Patriots from 2001 to
2024, leading the department into its Division III era and later into Division II, while also developing 17 NCAA programs. Under his leadership, the Patriots ↓ Brittany Mahomes with Dr. Sam delivered 10 NCAA National ChamFerguson, UT Tyler pionships, including nine in Division director of athletics, III, one in Division II, 80 total conferduring the Hall of ence championships and more than Fame ceremony.
100 All-American selections. He was named the NACDA Director’s Cup Athletic Director of the Year in both 2013 and 2016 and led the department to the men’s and women’s LSC Academic Excellence Award in 2020–21, becoming the first school to win the award outright in LSC history. “It is truly an honor to be inducted into the UT Tyler Athletics Hall of Fame,” Patterson says. “There is no more joy than watching programs
AT H L E T I C S
grow to become highly successful, win national championships and graduate outstanding men and women.”
Brittany Mahomes
Mahomes put together one of the strongest careers in UT Tyler women’s soccer history from 2013-2016. She stands second all-time in total points (78) and goals (31), third in game-winning goals (10) and assists (16), and tied for third in total games played (74). She also put together arguably the best single-season in program history in 2016, scoring the most points (40), goals (18) and game-winning goals (7). In that same season, she posted four different games with three goals, tied for the best mark in program history for a single match.
SUMMER 2026
UT TYLER WILL ALWAYS HOLD A SPECIAL PLACE IN MY HEART. I'M SO THANKFUL FOR THE EXPERIENCES AND THE PEOPLE WHO WERE PART OF MAKING MY TIME IN TYLER ONE I WILL NEVER FORGET.” BRITTANY MAHOMES Hall of Fame Inductee, Former Women's Soccer Player
of making my time in Tyler one I will never forget.”
2016 Softball Champions
The 2016 UT Tyler softball team will go down as the first team in the program’s history to win the National Championship with their Division III triumph. The team went 49-5 for the year, including a 32-game winning streak to finish the regular season as ASC Regular Season Champions. The Patriots fell to East Texas Baptist in the ASC Championship game, but then went undefeated in their NCAA
WHAT THESE YOUNG WOMEN ACCOMPLISHED IN 2016 WAS BIGGER THAN A TROPHY.” MIKE REED Former UT Tyler Softball Head Coach
↑ Dr. Howard Patterson developed 17 UT Tyler NCAA programs and led the department into its Division III and Division II eras.
Regional and Super Regional to head to the Division III World Series. There, the Patriots won their first two games before falling to St. John Fisher. They came back to beat them in the second game to punch their ticket to the championship series, where they swept #11 Messiah College in scores of 3-0 and 7-0 to win the National Championship for the first time in program history. Leading that team was NFCA Hall of Fame coach Mike Reed, along with NFCA National Player of the Year Kelsie Batten, All-Americans Batten and Raven Rodriguez, five NFCA All-Region Selections and 10 All-ASC selections. “Coaching this team to UT Tyler softball’s first national championship is something I will carry with me forever,” says Reed, former softball head coach. “What these young women accomplished in 2016 was bigger than a trophy — it was belief, sacrifice and an unbreakable bond that changed our program’s history.”
UTTYLER.EDU
PHOTO BY LANG WHITE
21
Mahomes is a founding co-owner of the Kansas City Current in the National Women’s Soccer League and helped spur construction of the first soccer stadium in the world specifically built for women’s soccer. She was appointed to the inaugural NWSL Advisory Board in November 2025 alongside names such as Chris Paul, Julie Foudy, Brandi Chastain, Sue Bird, Eli Manning, Ken Griffey Jr., Alex Morgan, Lindsey Vonn and Magic Johnson. “I’m honored to be inducted into the UT Tyler Athletics Hall of Fame. My time at UT Tyler played a huge role in shaping my life, career and the person I am today,” Mahomes says. “I’m especially grateful to coach Stefani Webb — her belief in me, leadership and constant support had an incredible impact on my journey both on and off the field,” she adds. “UT Tyler will always hold a special place in my heart. I’m so thankful for the experiences and the people who were part
BY Elizabeth Wingfield
PHOTOS BY Jonathan McSwain
ESHAPING HE UTURE
F EALTHCARE IN AST TEXAS
UT TYLER CELEBRATES COMPLETION OF SCHOOL OF MEDICINE BUILDING
UTTYLER.EDU
24
UT TYLER MAGAZINE
THE UT TYLER School of Medicine Building cuts an impressive figure on Tyler’s midtown horizon, reshaping the familiar rise and fall of the medical district’s skyline. Five stories of glass reflect the blue East Texas sky, interspersed by ripples of stone. In the lobby, cement columns vault 45 feet upward to meet the ceiling. Light pours in from expansive windows, bathing every square inch in a soft glow. Earlier this year, this space was transformed from a building into a home as School of Medicine students, faculty and staff began the process of moving in. This spring, the university officially opened the building to the public with a grand opening celebration. “Years from now, we will look back on this moment when a university, its partners and its community stepped forward together to create something that will leave a lasting impact,” says UT Tyler President Julie V. Philley, MD. “We are blessed to stand in this new building with this new school, surrounded by the incredible support of our community, our region and our state. We do not take this or our work for granted.” The UT Tyler School of Medicine is a multigenerational investment in the future of East Texas, says UT System Chairman Kevin P. Eltife. ۄThe School of “It will strengthen our healthcare inMedicine anatomy lab features one frastructure, expand opportunity and of the largest improve lives for decades to come,” Eltinon-museum fe says. “We have to provide hope for fucollections of ture generations. If you want to see the plastinates in good of humanity, look no further than the U.S.
East Texas. This is what this community is all about. It is in the best interest of all our community to treat every child, every student as if they belong to all of us — because they do.” The School of Medicine was established in 2022, making it the first medical school in East Texas and the seventh in the UT System. The school reflects the UT System’s commitment to expanding opportunity for students, strengthening the healthcare workforce and improving access to quality care across Texas, says UT System Chancellor John M. Zerwas. “We are shaping the future of healthcare in Texas and certainly beyond, and that's true both in urban areas as well as rural areas — and UT Tyler is certainly addressing both of these,” he says. “Physicians who understand the needs of this region will be trained — and, in fact, are being trained — right here. Re-
search that addresses the most pressing health challenges facing Texans will happen right in this institution — innovation, opportunity and economic growth actually live here.” The UT System Board of Regents approved the $308 million project, and UT Tyler broke ground in 2023. With nearly $100 million in community support, the School of Medicine has expanded
“THIS BUILDING GIVES US A PHYSICAL PRESENCE AND, MORE IMPORTANTLY,A HOME.” - Ashton Arlen, First-Year Medical Student beginning of a new era of healthcare in East Texas, a mission that’s evident in every aspect of the facility.
DESIGNED FOR DISCOVERY
25 UTTYLER.EDU
The School of Medicine Building brings ↓ School of Medicine simulation spaces together education, clinical care and feature robotic community impact in one space. In manikins to addition to education, it will provide replicate real-world clinical services by UT Health East medical scenarios. Texas clinicians. The nearly 250,000-square-foot building, which includes clinical spaces, features a student lounge, 16 clinical skills rooms and four simulation labs, including an operating room, labor and delivery, intensive care unit and emergency room. The new simulation center is large enough to hold all cohorts of medical students simultaneously and features a storage space for state-ofthe-art manikins, including UV lights for preservation and glass that can frost opaquely or become transparent with the twist of a knob. “Technology here isn’t about flash; it’s about preparing physicians who can think critically and work collaboratively,” says Dr. Sue Cox, School of Medicine dean. “Simulation tools allow students to practice complex scenarios before they encounter them in real life — making mistakes safely and developing the clinical judgment they’ll need in a rapidly evolving environment.” The building’s clinical space holds
SUMMER 2026
program offerings and enhanced student success. The April 24 grand opening of the building served as a tribute to the years of collaboration and investments that made the dream a reality. The festivities continued the following day, as the university opened its doors to the public for a communitywide open house. East Texans caught their first glimpse of the sweeping lobby and the state-ofthe-art facilities where the next generation of physicians are being trained. For many, it wasn't just a tour of a new facility — it was an invitation to witness the
eight operating rooms and nearly 100 exam rooms across various specialties. The building is certified by the Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design program, a globally recognized rating system for green buildings, due to its cutting-edge design in everything from plumbing to the exterior design. “Every aspect of the building reflects our mission,” Cox says. “It supports training across rural, urban and underserved settings and keeps learners connected to patients and families. This building wasn’t designed just to look impressive — it was designed to work for East Texas.” Students appreciate the building’s cutting-edge design and various student spaces, including a lounge equipped with a kitchen and pingpong tables. Faculty can now office in the same building and teach students with spaces designed specifically for their learning, from a tiered classroom to the state-of-the-art simulation labs. “We are here because someone believed that students from this region deserve the same access, the same training and the same possibilities as students anywhere else in the state,” says Luke B. Schwartz, a member of the School of Medicine’s first class and a former UT System student regent.
UTTYLER.EDU
26
UT TYLER MAGAZINE
face the skybridge to the UT Health East Texas Tyler hospital and the bustling street of Beckham Avenue. “I love how we’re so immersed in the city, being right in midtown, and there are so many aspects of the building that remind me of the importance of community — from the glass windows giving us a glimpse into Tyler to the huge spaces where we can gather together,” says Arlen. “While the School of Medicine has already been here for a few years, this building gives us a physical presence and, more importantly, a home.” “We feel that every day we walk through these doors.” For students and faculty alike, the building’s presence is a physical reminder of its purpose to serve the community. “Walking into the building is a magical experience. When I first saw the building, it just took my breath away,” says Dr. Sherilyn Willis, the School of Medicine Department of Women’s Health chair. “When students walk in, they’ll be able to see tangible proof of the community’s support for them. When patients walk in, feeling hurt and scared, they can see our medical students and know we are caring for their health today and in the years to come. The beginning of their healing journey will start with hope.” A first-year medical student and member of the third class, Ashton Arlen recalls moving to the new building from the UT Tyler Health Science Center campus, where School of Medicine students took classes before construction was completed. “For months, I’d heard so much about the building,” she says. “We’d just finished our exams in January when we stepped into it for the first time — and my mind was blown. It was modern, beautiful and made my mission to serve East Texas seem that much more real.” Arlen’s favorite room is the tiered learning studio. The classroom is split across three levels and features an LED screen that spans nearly the entire room. Quartz counters top the desks, and whiteboards form the front-facing surface, allowing students to write on the desks behind them to take notes and solve problems. The room’s windows
WHERE EDUCATION MEETS CARE The School of Medicine Building’s most unique characteristic is its proximity to
Rooted in the Region To design the first medical school in East Texas, the architects looked to the landscape for inspiration. From the lighting to the pattern of the carpet, every detail was carefully chosen to reflect the local environment. ¶ “We wanted East Texas to be at the forefront of the building’s design,” says Brandy Ziegler, an architect and partner with Fitzpatrick Architects. “The region’s signature woods are hinted at throughout the space, starting in the main lobby.” Nature-Inspired Outside, a metal sculpture supports the corner of the building, its shape suggestive of a widening tree trunk and branches. The angled stone comprising the building’s exterior resembles an undulating curtain, drawn close in some places and pulled back in others, a loose reference to the “pine curtain” of East Texas. Natural Elements Wooden elements are scattered throughout the building, including wall panels and furniture. Interior Expressions The concrete columns are reminiscent of huge tree trunks, leading up to ceiling clouds that feel like a tree canopy. Starting on the second floor, the pattern of carpet resembles the shadows and dappled light of a forest floor.
and integration with clinical care. “Practically, the skybridge allows seamless movement between learning and patient care spaces, reinforcing teamwork and continuity,” says Cox. “Symbolically, it represents our belief that education and service are inseparable. We don’t train physicians adjacent to patient care — we train them within it. That connection is visible, intentional and central to who we are.” She notes that this immersion creates a more thoughtful patient experience. “Learners are immersed in real-world care from the beginning. Patients ben-
A NEW HORIZON FOR EAST TEXAS
sees one thing: community. “How I feel when I see this building reminds me of how I felt when I visited East Texas growing up — so much joy, so welcomed and, most of all, like I was home,” the Dallas area native says. “Home is where your community is, and I feel so thankful to be reminded of that every time I drive up to the building.” That sense of belonging is exactly what Cox hopes will define the school’s legacy for decades to come. “Twenty
27 UTTYLER.EDU
years from now, I hope this building is known as the place where physicians were created who are clinically excellent and deeply committed to serving East Texas. If this building is associated with healthier communities and physicians who chose to stay and serve here, then it will have fulfilled its promise.” The structure is unmistakable amongst the silhouettes of midtown’s hospitals, clinics and businesses. Awash in the golden light of a sunset, the exterior seems to glow, the stone curtain rippling with shifting shadows. Just as the building has reshaped the medical district’s skyline, it’s changed the trajectory of the region — creating a future where students can stay in the communities they love and East Texans can receive quality healthcare without leaving home.
SUMMER 2026
Less than a decade ago, the UT Tyler School of Medicine was a collective dream, a means to increase educational opportunities and healthcare access in the most rural region in the state. Today, that dream is a five-story, 249,110-square-foot reality, thanks to the support of donors, the community, local and statewide leadership and the tireless efforts of architects, engineers, construction workers, faculty and staff. Some may look at the building and see an engineering feat, an architectural masterpiece or evidence of the region’s growth. Arlen looks at the building and
“WE DON’T TRAIN PHYSICIANS ADJACENT TO PATIENT CARE — WE TRAIN THEM WITHIN IT. THAT CONNECTION IS VISIBLE, INTENTIONAL AND CENTRAL TO WHO WE ARE.” - Dr. Sue Cox, School of Medicine Dean
efit from teams that are current on the latest evidence, take time to listen and view each encounter as a moment of healing.”
From
�romıse to Practice In under four years, U T T Y L E R ’S S C H O OL of M E DI C I NE has expanded education, research and patient care access A C R OS S EAST T E X AS.
by SARAH J O �UCHANAN
I L L U S T R A T I O N S B Y NA S H W E E R A S E K E R A
bench-to-bedside research landscape and strengthened the clinical workforce to help meet physician demand. “From the beginning, our mission was clear,” Cox says. “When people rally around a clear purpose, momentum follows.” This growth reflects not only the work of faculty and staff but also broad community support, including health partners and institutional leadership with a shared understanding of why this school matters. Cox points to intentionality as a defining characteristic of the school’s journey. “Every step has been guided by thoughtful planning, reflection and clear understanding of our responsibility to the people we serve,” she says.
UTTYLER.EDU
30
UT TYLER MAGAZINE
C R EA E AT I NG A PI PEL I NE: EDUCAT ION EDUCA IO N T HA H AT S H APES T H E W OR K F OR C E
Six years ago, on a brisk February morning, a community gathered in downtown Tyler to hear UT Tyler announce: “It’s time for our medical school,” setting in motion a wave of promise and hope that would shape the future of healthcare for East Texans and medical education across the region. Since its founding in 2022, the School of Medicine has evolved into an institution grounded in a clear mission, values and purpose. “The School of Medicine represents an intentional shift from vision to reality, driven by mission clarity, people and a responsibility to East Texas,” says Dr. Sue Cox, dean of the School of Medicine. “Growth has been rapid, but always purposeful.” Instilled with values of perseverance, excellence, respect, creativity, community and service, the school, in under four years, has created opportunities for more than 150 students to attend medical school in their home region, expanded access to residency and fellowship training programs, reimagined the
The Office of Graduate Medical Education helped lay the foundation for the School of Medicine, and now with the addition of Undergraduate Medical Education, the school supports a full pipeline to train, retain and grow physicians across East Texas. According to Dr. Emmanuel Elueze, associate dean for Graduate Medical Education and professional development, “GME programs didn’t just create a foundation; they cultivated the right environment.” From the beginning, Elueze’s philosophy was simple: train physicians in East Texas to stay in East Texas. Now, the mission begins at the start of a student’s medical education. Medical students can see their future take shape as they train alongside residents and fellows in clerkships, learning not only clinical skills but also what it means to practice medicine in East Texas. Following the journey of the school’s first cohort, which began in July 2023, the School of Medicine is nearing the milestone of a student completing the full Undergraduate Medical Education life cycle, with match day and graduation on the horizon in spring 2027. “Student clinical experiences, building trust, listening to pa-
“
The entire experience has been a wonderful adventure.Seeing the community embrace us, we are truly at the forefront of something special for East Texas.”
- DR . T OR RY T U C K E R , Associate Dean for Research
tients and understanding the communities they will one day serve bring our mission to life,” Cox says. This summer, the MD program welcomed its fourth cohort, bringing total enrollment to a full complement of 160 students across three phases of training. Growth in Graduate Medical Education has also been significant, expanding from three programs in 2018 to 22 residency and fellowship training programs in 2026. During that time, the number of trainees has grown from about 30 to 260 residents and fellows across East Texas. For many involved, success is not just measured in numbers but in patient impact. One such moment came during a leadership visit to the rural psychiatry residency clinic in Pittsburg, Texas. “I walked into the waiting room on a Friday afternoon, and it was full of patients waiting to see four of our resident physicians,” Elueze says. “It dawned on me, if not for our residency, who would be serving those patients?” As the office continues to expand, with plans to add specialty programs like infectious diseases and emergency medicine, its direction remains unchanged. “Our north star is very clear, to improve healthcare for East Texans,” Elueze says. “We accomplish this work by students, residents, fellows, faculty and staff all coming together, as a team.”
BR OA OADE DEN NI NG T H E R ES EA E AR C H F OOT PR I NT
While the School of Medicine launched in 2022, research conducted at the Health Science Center campus has long been established. Centered on preclinical and translational discovery, with research emphasis in lung injury and infectious diseases like nontuberculous mycobacteria, the school created new opportunities for connection by integrating research with clinical practice. “Being a part of a school of medicine positions us to take a step forward and help people in new ways,” says Dr. Torry Tucker, associate dean for research. “This realization is an opportunity to lead and recruit expert clinician-scientists in their field.” Researchers now work alongside clinicians in active clinical trials, analyzing patient samples and informing ideas that can immediately influence treatment decisions. Clinical trial activity has increased, new centers of excellence are emerging and top-tier faculty
are relocating their labs to conduct research in East Texas. “There are things we simply couldn’t do without clinicians partnering in research. The School of Medicine opened those doors,” Tucker says. One of the most visible examples is the Center for NTM Innovation, a comprehensive lab for nontuberculous mycobacterial lung disease research, led by Dr. Jennifer R. Honda, who relocated from National Jewish Health in Colorado. The center integrates preclinical, translational and clinical research under one umbrella. The School of Medicine continues to advance scientific discovery, translate research to care and expand into new areas that better serve the needs of East Texans. As the school grows, so does its scope of research and educational opportunities. While pulmonary disease and NTM research remain core focus areas, new initiatives are expanding into cancer and cardiovascular disease-related research. Reflecting on the past four years, Tucker says, “There is no one favorite moment. The entire experience has been a wonderful adventure. Seeing the community embrace us, we are truly at the forefront of something special for East Texas.”
mains the same: to recruit to meet regional needs and build an enterprise that supports both routine and complex care closer to home.”
C ON O NT I NU I NG T H E W OR K
What began on a brisk February morning as a shared promise is now taking shape across clinics, classrooms and research labs. Today, early signs of progress are evident not only in the number of students trained or programs established, but also in the patients served, the partnerships formed and the strong community support driving this work. “Seeing this level of impact in such
a short time reinforces why this work matters,” says Sue Cox. “It is both humbling and motivating, and it reminds us that we are just getting started.” With a foundation rooted in purpose and guided by the needs of the community, the School of Medicine continues to grow and evolve, advancing a model of academic medicine guided by intentionality and purpose. The school has been shaped not just by growth, but by responsibility to the communities it serves and by a deep commitment to training future physicians, advancing research and expanding care to the people of East Texas.
EX PAN PANDI DI NG C L I NI CA CAL CA CAR E T O M E E T R E GI ONA O NAL L NE E DS
SUMMER 2026 31 UTTYLER.EDU
While research and educational efforts work in concert to train and retain physicians, clinical growth has expanded significantly to support that progress. In 2018 the university supported fewer than 100 clinical faculty appointments. Today, through the University Practice Plan and Office of Faculty Affairs, the School of Medicine supports more than 600 faculty members across clinical, institutional and community roles. “The practice plan provides an academic home, a clinical network and a mission larger than any individual practice,” says Dr. Steven Cox, associate dean for clinical affairs. “It not only serves as an employment structure but also helps operationalize the school’s mission.” This growth is not only in size, but in expertise — attracting clinicians from across the country to teach, conduct research and care for patients. The practice plan has grown in geographic reach and in clinical depth,” Steve Cox says. “Our growth is not just numerical; it is structural and strategic.” The practice plan now includes anesthesiologists, certified registered nurse anesthetists and local practices such as Four Seasons Women’s Health, which will begin seeing patients in the School of Medicine Building later this year. As capacity grows, so does the ability to meet community needs. One key example is dementia and Alzheimer’s care, an area of longstanding need in East Texas. Through community support, philanthropy and strategic recruitment, and in partnership with UT Health East Texas, the school opened the regions’ first clinic for dementia and Alzheimer’s care. Led by neurologists Dr. Eric Dinnerstein and Dr. Khushboo Verma, the clinic has already served more than 400 patients in its first five months. With the state’s establishment of the Dementia Prevention and Research Institute, the school is well positioned to expand multidisciplinary care and recruit additional specialists. Now with the opening of the School of Medicine Building, the school’s mission further reinforces this integration of patient care and education. “The building reflects that our academic and clinical futures are being built together,” Steve Cox says. “Yet, our vision re-
R
eration of professionals who will serve our region. “UT Tyler stands apart because we’re expanding access to exceptional care today while building the workforce that will sustain healthcare across East Texas for decades,” she says. “By integrating clinical care with education and workforce development, we create lasting impact. Our community invests in UT Tyler, and we invest directly back into the communities we serve.” In the past three years, major philanthropic gifts have supported the creation of a School of Medicine, the establishment of an Alzheimer’s and dementia clinic, and the creation of a Speech, Language and Hearing Clinic. They’ve also supported expansion of the School of Nursing, pulmonary care research and, among other things, the establishment of the first physician assistant program in East Texas at the recently expanded UT Tyler Longview University Center. These recent gifts have had a profound impact on UT Tyler’s ability to serve East Texas, and they are the newest round in what has become a legacy of not only community giving but a cycle of support stretching back years.
UTTYLER.EDU
34
UT TYLER MAGAZINE
Building a Legacy
ibbon cuttings are as symbolic as they are ceremonial — like a present tied neatly with a bow, they symbolize the giving, or perhaps the returning, of a gift back to the very community that made that gift possible. UT Tyler has held quite a few ribbon cuttings over the past few years on new clinics and centers as well as on new and expanded buildings. A large number of these have been focused in the health sector, from dementia and speech-language clinics to a clinical flight simulator for nurses and East Texas’ very first School of Medicine. The community itself is at the heart of this growth in more ways than one. The needs of East Texans help inform the focus of UT Tyler’s research and clinical efforts, and community investment helps transform those efforts into tangible services and care. As a result, every ribbon cutting’s ceremonial snip has marked another community gift returned in the cycle of support that sustains UT Tyler’s mission to serve East Texas. “UT Tyler is strengthening the future of East Texas through a powerful cycle of partnership, investment and service,” says Kate Starnes, UT Tyler vice president for health operations. “These gifts often reflect deeply personal commitments, and that generosity enables us to expand programs, improve healthcare access and prepare the next gen-
Community health and partnerships have factored into UT Tyler’s mission since the beginning — nursing, for example, is one of the university’s longest-running programs and celebrated its 50th anniversary just last year, and the UT Health Science Center has been treating patients under the UT System since 1977. However, two major turning points in the university’s ability to advance regional healthcare occurred in 2018 and 2021. The first formed UT Health East Texas and the second merged UT Tyler and UT Health Science Center at Tyler. These couplings marked a shift toward a more comprehensive and academically aligned healthcare system. “Serving East Texas has always been at the heart of UT Tyler’s mission, and our capacity to do that effectively has grown substantially,” Starnes says. “As both the university and health enterprise have evolved, so has our ability to address regional needs in more connected and impactful ways. Community engagement isn’t something we do alongside our strategy — it’s woven directly into it.” The 2018 merger expanded residency and clinical training programs and further positioned Tyler as a center for physician training in East Texas. Community partnerships were crucial to that expansion. “We have built the School of Medicine in partnership with the region, not apart from it,” says Dr. Steven Cox, president of the University Practice Plan, associate dean of clinical affairs and a professor of surgery. “That includes health system partners, community physicians, CHRISTUS Health, federally
qualified health centers, regional clinics and a range of business and technology partners who help us improve how care is delivered. “On the educational side, those relationships create clinical hours, preceptorships, mentorships, communitybased rotations and exposure to the real needs of East Texas,” he continues. “On the care delivery side, they help us expand access, recruit faculty and bring new services closer to patients. So, these partnerships are not peripheral to our mission. They are one of the main ways the mission becomes real.” Philanthropy has always been an essential supplement to these top-level changes. Health-focused gifts have helped the university identify and fill gaps in community care, endow scholarships for enhanced research capabilities, and recruit highly qualified faculty and researchers. Such continued sup-
port is indicative of a cooperative trust built up from the university’s earliest days. “Community need is foundational to our strategy,” says Kathryn Lake, UT Tyler chief strategy officer. “We are constantly evaluating where East Texas has workforce shortages, healthcare access challenges and opportunities for regional growth, and then aligning our academic and clinical investments accordingly. Our partnerships help ensure we are building programs and services that are both meaningful and sustainable for the region.”
Establishing Community Trust
Be a part of transforming the future of East Texas healthcare. Learn how you can continue the momentum of support and make a lasting impact on the region's first School of Medicine by visiting uttyler.edu/transform-healthcare.
UTTYLER.EDU
On an early misty morning in April, hundreds of Smith County residents; UT Tyler employees, students and benefactors; UT System administrators; and regional partners gathered in the bright, wood-and-marble-lined lobby of UT Tyler’s new School of Medicine Building to celebrate its grand opening. After speeches and the symbolic snip of the ribbon-cutting ceremony’s overlarge scissors, a line of elementary school children donned in miniature white coats was led onto the stage. Watching them in their tiny lab coats, with grins on their faces and wonder in their eyes, was like catching a glimpse of the future. And their futures are exactly what the collective efforts to shape healthcare are all about. “From the beginning, our goal was to give the people of this region the opportunity to pursue medical careers right here at home,” UT System Chairman Kevin Eltife said during the School of
35
A Foundation for the Future
Medicine Building grand opening. “This building directly addresses the physician shortages facing our nation and especially our region. By training physicians locally and expanding residency programs, we are creating a pipeline of specialists who will strengthen UT Health East Texas, CHRISTUS Health and hospitals across this entire region.” Several of UT Tyler’s recent health additions are the first of their kind in the region, like the School of Medicine, the dementia clinic and physician’s assistant program in development in Longview. These multiple firsts are indicative of an institution continuing to assess and address community needs. “These initiatives reflect all three pillars of our strategic plan: student success, teaching excellence and service to East Texas,” says Lake. “For students, they create opportunities to train in high-demand fields close to home and within real clinical environments. For patients and families, they expand access to specialized care that previously may not have existed locally. More broadly, they demonstrate our commitment to building long-term solutions for the region rather than simply reacting to short-term challenges.” At the heart of UT Tyler’s initiatives and partnerships, as well as the philanthropic gifts that make dreams a reality, is a foresight to build self-sustaining communal structures that keep East Texans learning in and supporting their own communities. We see this across academic and health practices, but especially in new ventures like the School of Medicine. “The university supports the community, but we are also supported by the community in very tangible ways,” says Cox. “Community physicians teach our learners. Regional partners open their clinics and hospitals to students and residents. Local organizations help us understand the health challenges that matter most. That kind of support shapes the culture of the school. It keeps us grounded. “And I think that is especially important for a young medical school. We are growing, but we need to keep growing in a way that remains connected to the people we serve.”
SUMMER 2026
Recent major gifts have made possible numerous health-focused services and expanded educational opportunities. But what makes so many of these gifts unique — and what speaks volumes about community trust in UT Tyler and its health partnerships — is that they are often given by individuals who experienced loss or hardship firsthand and chose to transform pain into purpose to build a brighter future for East Texas. This is the origin story for the UT Tyler Dementia Clinic, which was formed at the UT Health North Campus Tyler — when a supporter’s family member struggled to find answers, a call was put out for comprehensive dementia support in East Texas. The result was incredible, with multiple entities like the Byers Foundation banding together to fund the creation of a clinic. “Our family's battle with Alzheimer’s was a nine-year-long difficult struggle,” says Marilyn Richey, an East Texas philanthropist who gave a significant gift to help establish the clinic. “Coupled with a diagnosis of Lewy Body Dementia, it robbed my husband of everything he had ever been or ever known. The illness changed our family forever. “My hope is that in the future, this gift will help others who are suffering with this disease. Our community is so blessed to have the kind of help and resources that UT Tyler will be providing for dementia.” Now, through the compassionate support of their neighbors and friends, other East Texans have access to more comprehensive services closer to home. “Tyler is a growing area, and as the city grows, services should grow with it,” says Lauren Allen, the parent of 2-year-old Elijah, who was diagnosed as deaf in one ear shortly after birth and has been using services offered through UT Tyler’s new Speech, Language and Hearing Clinic. “Parents shouldn’t have to travel far to find the help they need, especially while their child is still developing,” she continues. “The procedures can be frightening — it’s scary to think about putting your child through exams or scans — so having trusted care close by makes all the difference.” In just the past few years, significant philanthropic investments have sup-
ported nearly every area of UT Tyler’s health and academic enterprise, expanding the university’s ability to serve students and patients alike. “One of the most meaningful aspects of these gifts is that they reflect trust,” says Lake. “People across East Texas believe in the university’s mission and want to be part of improving the future of this region. We take that responsibility seriously. Our goal is to ensure that every investment, whether in scholarships, clinical care, research or academic programs, ultimately creates stronger communities and better opportunities for future generations.” Countless East Texans have found purpose in giving back because of their own experiences with loved ones, friends and neighbors facing hardship or illness — and many of these transformational gifts have been made within just the past few years. Support from partners like the Bernard Foundation helped expand the UT Tyler Longview University Center and establish East Texas’ first physician assistant program, while Jacqueline Cavender, the Cavender’s Western Wear family and her friends raised funds through “As the Spur Stirs” to help support the UT Tyler School of Medicine. Together, these recent investments illustrate a growing community interest in taking up the torch of generations past to build sustainable healthcare structures.
LIFE BEYOND THE 9-5
HOMECOMING
A F T E R H O U R S P. 3 8
P. 41
PAT R I O T M O M E N T S
CLASS NOTES W H AT ' S N E W W I T H A L U M N I P. 42
+ MORE
36
UT TYLER MAGAZINE
C ON TEN TS →
5 QUESTIONS
UTTYLER.EDU
TEXAS SPORTSWRITER OF THE YEAR BY SYDNEY BAKER
A S A C H I L D, Cedric Golden spent his days riding bikes with friends around his neighborhood in Tyler and exploring every sport. Starting with baseball, then moving on to football, Golden eventually fell in love with basketball. In 1984, he helped lead the Bishop Gorman Crusaders to the TCIL state basketball tournament, where they lost in the championship game. While Golden dreamed of playing basketball professionally, as many kids do, he also had an aptitude for writing. Early on, Golden would read box
PHOTO COURTESY OF CEDRIC GOLDEN
Cedric Golden, BA ’91
↑ Austin AmericanStatesman columnist Cedric Golden (right) hosts the “On Second Thought” podcast with colleague Kirk Bohls.
because there are different types of writers. Even if you don’t end up as a journalist, those creative writing courses are really fun. Take a speech course, too. The ability to speak in public and communicate in front of groups is one of the most essential tools. I took a couple of speech classes at UT Tyler, and they were invaluable because I do a lot of speaking engagements. U T T M : If you could play for any professional team, which would it be and why? C G : Back in the day, it would have been the Dallas Cowboys and Dallas Mavericks because my parents could have come to all the home games.
Learn. Upskill. Advance. With Coursera Career Academy
37
Free to UT Tyler Alumni Start learning today at uttyler.edu/digital-learning/microcredentials UTTYLER.EDU
U T T Y L E R M A G A Z I N E : What is the most chaotic game that you’ve ever covered? C E D R I C G O L D E N : It’s the 2017 Super Bowl in Houston. It was the New England Patriots and Atlanta Falcons, and we had a 10:30 p.m. deadline. When you have tight deadlines, you try to write during the game and hope that it makes sense when it's all said and done. Luckily for me, the Falcons were up 28-3 at halftime, so I started writing my column on the end of the New England dynasty. I was in such good shape, deadline-wise. But the Patriots came back and won that game. It was the biggest comeback in Super Bowl history. So, I had to scrap everything and start over. To this day, I haven’t read that column. UTTM: What advice would you give to current students who want to become writers? C G : Read everything. Know what’s going on in your city, your state, your country and the world. If you’re armed with information, you’re going to be OK. And have fun doing it! Don’t waste time on a job you don’t love. Figure out what you love and attack it. U T T M : What is your favorite sports movie and why?
M M : “Remember the Titans” is wonderful. Denzel Washington’s my favorite actor, and I like it because it’s a true story. It’s got a message. It’s got history, and it tackles a lot of hard issues. But my favorite movie overall is not a sports movie. It’s “Shawshank Redemption.” It’s about redemption and the human spirit. It’s a movie that transcends generations — it’s got a message for everybody. U T T M : What classes at UT Tyler are the most fundamental for a student to take if they want to become a writer? C G : Take some journalism classes. I would take some creative writing classes, too,
SUMMER 2026
scores in the newspaper, jotting down notes and coming up with his own stories about a game he saw on TV. He also participated in Bishop Gorman’s school newspaper, which solidified his decision to become a sportswriter. After high school, Golden attended Tyler Junior College and served on the sports staff for the school newspaper. When it was time to transfer, UT Tyler just made sense. The expert faculty and dedicated staff helped Golden to hone his writing skills and learn more about the written word, speech, presentation and organization. When he graduated from UT Tyler with his bachelor’s in journalism, Golden worked part time for the Tyler Morning Telegraph until joining the staff full time as a sportswriter. During his tenure at the Tyler paper, Golden covered high school football, attended the ’93 Super Bowl in Atlanta and gained valuable experience as a writer. In 1999, Golden began working for the Austin American-Statesman, where he’s been ever since, traveling all over to cover the dynamic world of high school, college and professional sports. Earlier this year, Golden was named the National Sports Media Association’s Texas Sportswriter of the Year, a testament to his dedication, wit and willingness to do what it takes to reach his goals.
ADVN-Coursera_5.625x9.125_v4.indd 1
6/10/26 1:37 PM
ALUMNI
before making her way to daycare pickup. By 5:15 p.m. she and her daughter, Julianna, are on the road home, the car stereo now fully dedicated to the “Frozen” soundtrack. Dinner is on the table by 6 p.m., featuring staples from Stone’s current recipe rotation: pesto chicken, taco bowls or Greek chicken bowls. The evening quickly shifts into family mode with dance parties, Magna-tiles and a walk around the block with the family dog before Julianna’s nighttime routine of bedtime stories and Elmo’s “Brushy Teeth.” Once Jules is down, Stone says she gives her husband, Jon, a hug “because we made it another day.”
38
UT TYLER MAGAZINE
GETTING ENOUGH REST IS ESSENTIAL TO STAYING ENERGIZED AND FOCUSED FOR ANOTHER 12-HOUR SHIFT AHEAD.” LAURINE UGBEBOR ’25, Registered Nurse
A L U M N I R O U N D TA B L E
After Hours: Life Beyond the 9-5 B Y J O R D A N Z AVA L A
By 8 p.m., Stone is winding down with a cup of tea and a good book or TV show — such as “The Correspondent: A Novel” by Virginia Evans or “Abbott Elementary” — before meal prepping for the next day, taking the dog out one last time and finally calling it a night after a day well spent.
Laurine Ugbebor ’25 R E G I S T E R E D N U R S E , W E S LY M E D I C A L CENTER
A F T E R L O N G S H I F T S and demand-
UTTYLER.EDU
Dr. Katherine Marie Hellmann Stone ’22 STUDENT WELLNESS & PROFESSIONAL F O R M AT I O N D I R E C T O R , A S S I S TA N T PROFESSOR, UT TYLER SCHOOL OF MEDICINE
For Ugbebor, a registered nurse working 12-hour overnight shifts, life after work looks a little different. While most people are beginning their days, she is returning home focused on rest and reflection and preparing to do it all again the next night. After clocking out at 7:30 a.m., the 15-minute drive home becomes a quiet transition from the fast pace of patient care to the slower rhythm of home. Her morning begins simply with breakfast, prayer and a short devotion before showering and settling in the for the day. Even during her downtime, Ugbebor remains connected to both person-
ILLUSTRATION BY JOEY GUIDONE (ISPOT)
ing schedules, healthcare professionals know the value of time off the clock. For UT Tyler alumni, those hours are more than just free time — they’re an opportunity to recharge, reconnect and reset. Here’s how a few Patriots spend their evenings once the workday ends.
For Stone, life after 5 p.m. is centered around intentional routines and quality time with family. From choosing the stairs on her walk to the car to unwinding at home with a cup of tea and a good book, her evenings are grounded in movement and connection. Stone’s transition from work to home starts with a carefully curated soundtrack featuring current musical obsession RAYE and a personal mantra, “You don’t need it,” while passing the famously tempting Bryan’s Cheesecakes on the drive home. By 5 p.m. she’s heading downstairs, waving goodbye to the university police
tending review sessions. “Staying a little longer after class helps me keep everything fresh and makes the next day feel less overwhelming,” she says. The drive home is filled with her favorite music and a chance to mentally disconnect from work and school. By 7:30 p.m., the pace of the day begins to shift. Some evenings are spent out to dinner with her boyfriend or friends, followed by a walk through a local park or around the mall, a simple way to stay active after long hours spent in class or studying. On quieter nights, she heads home for a home-cooked meal with family, using time around the dinner table to
catch up on everyone’s day. No matter how the evening unfolds, one thing stays consistent: The moment she walks through the door, she changes into comfortable clothes as a small ritual that signals the day is finally beginning to slow down. By 8:45 p.m., preparation for the next day is underway, from packing lunch and finishing small chores to picking out an outfit to keep mornings simple and stress-free. From 9:15 p.m. to 10 p.m., Higuera fully disconnects from work and school, winding down with comedy shows like “Abbott Elementary,” TikTok or quiet time in bed to close out the day.
ALUMNI
al growth and the people closest to her. By 9 a.m., she is often watching health education streams to stay up to date on topics related to work while FaceTiming family and friends. For her, those conversations are an important way to stay connected despite the demanding schedule that comes with working overnight in healthcare. After catching up, she spends time doing household chores and meal prepping for the next workday. Prioritizing these routines helps create a sense of balance and structure before the afternoon winds down. If time allows before bed, she unwinds with an episode or two of her current favorite anime, “Hunter x Hunter,” before turning in by noon. “Getting enough rest is essential to staying energized and focused for another 12-hour shift ahead,” she says.
Adriana Higuera ’25 FISCH COLLEGE OF PHARMACY STUDENT
STAYING A LITTLE LONGER AFTER CLASS HELPS ME KEEP EVERYTHING FRESH AND MAKES THE NEXT DAY FEEL LESS OVERWHELMING.”
UT TYLER WANTS TO HEAR FROM YOU! Please fill out the form with your current contact info to stay up to date with the university.
39
Higuera, a UT Tyler alumna now pursuing her Doctor of Pharmacy degree, has built an after-hours routine focused on work- and school-life balance and preparation. Between coursework, studying and spending time with friends and family, her evenings are carefully structured to bring a sense of calm to the demands of graduate school.
SUMMER 2026
WA L M A R T P H A R M AC I S T I N T E R N , U T T Y L E R
ADRIANA HIGUERA ’25, Pharmacist Intern, Doctor of Pharmacy Student
Scan the QR code or go to uttyler.edu/alumni-updates
UTTYLER.EDU
Whether she is studying for an upcoming exam, organizing the day ahead or carving out time to connect with loved ones, Higuera approaches her evenings with intentionality. For her, consistency isn’t just about staying organized, it’s one of the most important ways she minimizes stress and creates space to recharge. Depending on the day, Higuera often remains on campus until about 7 p.m., where she spends time reviewing lecture material, going over notes or at-
ALUMNI UT TYLER MAGAZINE 40
(TOP) The Country Concert featuring the Casey Donahew Band with Kylie Frey was a new Homecoming event this year. (LEFT) The UT Tyler baseball team celebrates the start of Homecoming 2026 at the pep rally on the Patriot Plaza. (RIGHT) Students share a laugh during the Midnight Breakfast.
UT TYLER PHOTOS
UTTYLER.EDU
(BOTTOM) Friday night’s concert closes out with a fireworks show over the UT Tyler campus.
ALUMNI SUMMER 2026 41
PAT R I O T M O M E N T S
Homecoming 2026
(TOP) An unforgettable night of elegance at the UT Tyler Midnight Masquerade Met Gala.
B Y J O R D A N Z AVA L A
ler becomes more than a campus, it becomes a place to return home. Homecoming 2026 brought together students, alumni and the East Texas community for a celebration that felt bigger and better than ever. Patriots far and wide returned to celebrate the traditions, connections and moments that make UT Tyler unforgettable. The week featured fan-favorite events and high-energy moments, from the pep rally on the Patriot Plaza and the
biannual Midnight Breakfast to the crowning of Mr. and Miss UT Tyler at the Met Gala. The celebration reached its peak over the weekend, as one of the largest crowds of the week filled the plaza for the Country Concert featuring the Casey Donahew Band, followed by a fireworks display that lit up the East Texas sky. On Saturday, the UT Tyler baseball and softball teams brought the week of celebration to a close, uniting the university community for another memorable Homecoming finale.
(MIDDLE) The audience cheers as the Casey Donahew Band performs on the Patriot Plaza. (BOTTOM) The Met Gala marquee sign lights up the dance floor for the Midnight Masquerade.
UTTYLER.EDU
UT TYLER PHOTOS
F O R O N E W E E K each spring, UT Ty-
(LEFT) Autumn Perry (left) and Armando Villalobos are crowned Mr. and Miss UT Tyler at the 2026 Homecoming Met Gala.
ALUMNI
C L A S S
N O T E S
1979
Essie Charles Childers (MEd) published her second book, “Becoming Her — A Young Woman’s Guide to Thriving in Life, School and Career,” targeting ages 13 to 22. Childers’ mission is to empower girls and young women through mentorship and faith. She serves as executive director of the nonprofit organization Young Ladies Success.
1982
42
UT TYLER MAGAZINE
Patricia M. Anthony (BS criminal justice) was appointed by Gov. Greg Abbott and approved by the Texas Senate to serve a six-year term as a commissioner of the Texas Commission on Jail Standards.
April Nunn Coker (BS secondary education, MS educational administration 1997) dove into her first love of writing after retiring from a 30-year career in education. Coker has published eight books, including six novels, one nonfiction and one children’s book. She is currently working on a mystery novel as part of her Magnolia Bluff Crime Chronicles series, which is set in the Texas Hill Country. Valari Dobson Staab (BBA marketing) received the Gracies Leadership Award from the Alliance for Women in Media for her contributions to shaping and strengthening the media industry. Staab serves as chairman of the NBCUniversal Local.
1985
Eloisa López Harkrider (BS elementary education) has published three bilingual children’s books, including “There Are Monkeys in My Head,” “Good Morning, Friends” and “I Wish I Could Fly.” Harkrider is a retired bilingual education teacher.
1990
UTTYLER.EDU
Tammie Dunn Walker (BBA marketing, MBA 1991) was named to the 2026 Forbes Best-in-State Wealth Advisers List, which recognizes top financial advisers across America.
1994
Billy Don McBride (BS history, general education), a fifth-grade science teacher, was honored as Pine Tree Middle School’s Teacher of the Year for 2025.
He also received the Beacon Award for impacting the lives of students.
1995
Mandy Willingham Goddard (BS mathematics), a cruise specialist, was inducted into the Cruise Lines International Association Hall of Fame. The honor recognized her leadership, advocacy and enduring impact in the cruise industry.
1996
Judit Schugurensky Gomez (BA Spanish) taught ESL at Waukesha County Technical College in Wisconsin before retiring. She now serves as a freelance translator and recently published her first children’s book in Spanish. Gomez holds a master’s degree in foreign languages and literature from the University of Wisconsin. Brian Tyson (MA interdisciplinary studies) has served as an adjunct assistant professor at LeTourneau University for more than 28 years.
1999
Tara Erwin (BA psychology, MEd reading 2016) is an educator in Fruitvale Independent School District and has received elementary and junior high school teacher of the year awards.
2000
Linda Snider Sadler (BA psychology) is employed as a health care social worker and, in her spare time, enjoys participating in ancestry and heritage groups. She is involved in the Daughters of the American Revolution, United Daughters of the Confederacy and Colonial Dames of the 17th Century.
2002
Connor Brown (BAAS) was appointed to the Surveying Advisory Committee of the Texas Board of Professional Engineers and Land Surveyors. Brown is vice president of a surveying and mapping company.
Brett Dyer (BFA) went on to earn a Master of Fine Arts from Texas Woman’s University after graduating from UT Tyler. He has built a career that blends education, community leadership and a personal art practice. Dyer currently serves as the dean of gallery, theater and live event operations at Dallas College.
Kyle Moore (BS interdisciplinary studies) has taught seventh-grade Texas history for more than 23 years in Sabine and Marshall school districts. Misty Stanger Wooldridge (BAAS) is president and co-founder of Tyler Run for Autism, a nonprofit organization that raises funds to benefit children with autism.
2003
Nicholas Cardwell (BS mechanical engineering) serves as vice president of product and advanced concepts with Venus Aerospace, which was a finalist for the 2025 Collier Award, given annually to the most impactful aerospace innovation of the year.
2004
Amanda McMillan (BSN), an acute care dialysis nurse, is in her final year in the family nurse practitioner doctoral program at The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston. She recently presented her doctoral project at Rotterdam University in the Netherlands. Jim Parisi (MBA) was named chair of the American Heart Association’s Heart Ball Campaign. As chair, he is leading communitywide efforts to promote health and wellness in Montgomery and North Harris counties. Parisi serves as president of the St. Luke’s Health-Lakeside Hospital.
2005
Carol Campbell (MS industrial safety), an environmental specialist, received an honorary doctorate in humanities from the United Graduate College and Seminary International. Stephanie Jones-Moore (BA health and kinesiology) earned a Master of Science in occupational therapy from Milligan University in Tennessee after graduating from UT Tyler. Jones-Moore has worked in a variety of rehabilitation settings and started the neonatal therapy program at Longview Regional Medical Center’s Neonatal Intensive Care Unit. She earned the neonatal touch and massage therapist certification in 2016, developmental care specialist designation in 2017 and neonatal therapist certification in 2018. Aimee Hale Rhodes (BA psychology) is a licensed professional counselor and has worked in a variety of public
2007
Margarita Rodriguez (BBA accounting) serves as a financial controller with Trane Technologies, an international manufacturer of heating and air ventilation equipment.
Heather Sanders (BBA accounting, MAcc 2013) was promoted to officer at Henry & Peters Certified Public Accountants, where she began employment in 2012. Sanders has been honored by the Texas Society of Certified Public Accountants as a Rising Star and served as president of the East Texas Chapter of the Texas Society of Certified Public Accountants. She also is an alum of Leadership Tyler Class 30 and a member of the UT Tyler Accounting Advisory Council.
a teacher and coach for more than 12 years. He is a former member of the UT Tyler men’s track team. Abbey Matatall (MA English, MEd reading 2014) completed a Doctor of Education in educational leadership from Stephen F. Austin State University with the dissertation “The Impact of 1:1 Technology Initiatives on New Literacy in the Secondary ELAR Classroom: A Metasynthesis.” As a doctoral student, she earned two Southwest Educational Research Association Dean’s Awards for her scholarly works.
ALUMNI
and community mental health environments. She now co-owns a private practice in San Antonio and teaches behavioral health sciences online for Grand Canyon University. Rhodes holds a master’s degree in mental health counseling and an educational doctorate with a specialty in global training and development.
2008
SUMMER 2026
Cameron Strother (BS industrial technology, MS industrial management 2009) is the new program director of risk and environmental health and safety for Children’s Health Hospital in Dallas. Strother’s role includes supporting the build of a new pediatric campus. Chase Weeks (BBA marketing) serves as the principal project controls specialist with Lummus Technology in Houston. Weeks has worked in the engineering, procurement and construction industry for more than 12 years.
2010
Ashlie Contos (BA English, MA English 2017) teaches technical writing at the University of Houston’s Cullen College of Engineering. She also works independently as a grants manager.
2011
Sonya Grigsby (BSN, DNP 2020, Executive MBA 2022) is a clinical assistant professor and director of the adult-gerontology acute care nurse practitioner program at Texas A&M University. She also serves as an intensivist nurse practitioner at St. Joseph Hospital.
43
Matt Tomerlin (BS industrial technology/surveying) co-founded Datapoint Surveying and Engineering in San Antonio and has opened additional offices in Midland, Sulphur Springs and Fort Worth.
Patriot Golf Classic SAVE THE DATE APRIL 19, 2027
Become a 2027 Sponsor!
For more information, please contact Kailey Henderson at khenderson@uttyler.edu, 903.566.7106. Special alumni pricing coming soon.
Monta Jeffley (BS kinesiology, MEd educational administration 2019) was promoted to assistant principal of Carrollton-Farmers Branch Independent School District. Jeffley has served as
uttyler.edu/pgcsponsor
UTTYLER.EDU
2012
ALUMNI
2013
Shehzad Batliwala (BS biology) recently began a new practice, Visionary Eye, in the Dallas area, after serving as a contract ophthalmologist in Lubbock for several years. Batliwala completed his osteopathic medical training at the University of North Texas Health Science Center, now known as UNT Health Fort Worth.
44
UT TYLER MAGAZINE
Kevin Plotts (MEd educational administration) was named interim superintendent of Apple Springs Independent School District, where he has served as a principal for 11 years. Plotts taught and held leadership positions in Lufkin-area schools before joining Apple Springs ISD. Karina Renteria (BS interdisciplinary studies) is a teacher and published author. Her new book, “How to Calm Your Testing Jitters,” which includes a Spanish version, is written as a peptalk for students who are nervous about taking tests.
2015
Sidonie Chhetri Phillips (MEd reading), an English language arts and reading instructional coach, has presented at numerous conferences of the National Council of Teachers of English and the Texas Council of Teachers of English and Language Arts.
2018
Micah Baker (MEd reading) is an ESL teacher in Dallas Independent School District. She also co-leads the district’s Where Everyone Belongs program, which supports the emotional needs of students as they enter middle school.
made outstanding contributions to the engineering profession and the community during the early years of their career. Acosta works as a graduate engineer for geotechnical services at Raba Kistner Inc. in Houston. She also chairs the volunteering and fundraising committees at Raba Kistner and serves as a TSPE director. Kelli Airheart (MEd reading) teaches in Van Independent School District and has received the district’s Intermediate School Teacher of the Year award. David Broom (BBA marketing) was appointed by Gov. Greg Abbott as district attorney of the 2nd Judicial District in Cherokee County. Broom previously served as an assistant district attorney in the Cherokee County District Attorney’s Office. He holds a Juris Doctor from the University of North Texas at Dallas College of Law. David Hoeffner (MEd reading) received the Recognized Teacher designation in the Texas Education Agency Teacher Incentive Allotment program. The award is based on student growth and classroom observation. Mallary Lattanze (MEd reading) serves as president of the Houston Branch of the International Dyslexia Association. She has presented at numerous events on topics such as “Supporting Students Diagnosed with Dyslexia & Their Families” at the Spotlight on Dyslexia Conference and “Liter-
acy Leaders: Advocacy and Insights for Dyslexia in Education” on “The Learning Ally” podcast. Kolbe Ricks (MEd curriculum and instruction) heads the advanced placement program and teaches AP English in the Dallas Independent School District. Ricks also serves as head swim coach and girls flag football coach.
2020
Carol Estrada (BS mechanical engineering) began a new position as a project engineer in the midstream industry, after working three years offshore as an oil and gas facilities engineer. Jessica Helphrey (MS clinical psychology) recently began a neuropsychology fellowship, after completing her doctorate in clinical psychology from the University of South Florida. Shiying Huang (MSN nursing education) serves as cardiology head nurse at a hospital in Guangzhou, China. Christopher O’Kelley (BS construction management) has served as a construction manager for more than five years with Dashiell Corp., a national provider of technical services to the electric utility, power generation, energy and industrial sectors.
2021
Briana Aguilar (BS biology) graduated from the San Juan Bautista School of Medicine in Caguas, Puerto Rico,
Jay Dent (BA English) serves as a college pastor with the Reformed University Fellowship at the U.S. Air Force Academy. George Loredo (BS mechanical engineering) is a senior account executive for xSuite North America, a manufacturer of software applications for document-based processes.
Tania Acosta (BS civil engineering) was named 2026 Young Engineer of the Year by the Texas Society of Professional Engineers — Greater Houston Chapter. The distinction is awarded to a Houston-based TSPE member who has
UT TYLER PHOTO
UTTYLER.EDU
2019
Jose Covarrubias (BA political science) recently passed the Texas Bar Exam and began serving as an assistant district attorney with the Kaufman County Criminal District Attorney’s Office. David Lutmer (BS political science) is an academic adviser for creative media production at the University of Oklahoma Gaylord College of Journalism and Mass Communication. He also was admitted recently to the Master of Public Administration program at Texas A&M University-Texarkana.
Mohamed Shehadeh (BS kinesiology) is a physical therapist assistant with UT Health East Texas.
2022
Carson Young (BA political science) recently passed the Texas Bar Exam and accepted a position in the Law Enforcement Defense Division of the Texas Office of the Attorney General.
2024
Peyton Nipp Brewer (BBA marketing) serves as social media manager of the Tyler marketing firm Lead Dog Digital.
Dave Calubaquib (DNP) received the Outstanding Achievement in Nursing Clinical Practice award from the Association of periOperative Registered Nurses. He is a nurse manager at MD Anderson Cancer Center.
UTTYLER.EDU
Constance Townson (MSN) is an adjunct professor in clinical instruction at Collin College in McKinney.
Promoting Health and Wellness
She brought a different approach to school nursing, practicing from a health promotion perspective. Drawing from her nursing education, which emphasized independent thinking, creative problem-solving and research, she developed several health and wellness programs for the school district. The programs included a Family Walk Night for students and their families, which garnered two state awards, and a Total Girl Wellness Program for drill team members and cheerleaders — a nod to her early interests. She also ended up teaching health science technology at the high school, in addition to her role as a school nurse. In 2004, Chilton became a preceptor to community health students from the UT Tyler School of Nursing, supervising and mentoring them as they gained first-hand experience in the
Finding Her Community
The School of Nursing hired Chilton to serve as a clinical instructor in community health in 2007, while she was finishing her master’s degree. On the faculty, she discovered a community defined by support, collaboration and forward looking creativity. “They saw each person’s gifts and were committed to helping those gifts grow,” she says, noting that everyone was expected to bring their best efforts to enhancing programs and creating new initiatives. “Someone would bring an idea and together we would examine it from every angle, reshaping it and elevating it. The shared goal was to always create something better for our students and our communities,” she says. “We pushed each other to raise the bar, and it was energizing.” The School of Nursing is known for advancing nursing education through innovation. The faculty created a preceptor program for nursing students in 1998 — the first in Texas to integrate preceptors into clinical courses beginning in the second semester of studies. In 2008, they were the third in the nation to offer an online PhD in nursing program. In the past two years, the school has developed new pathways to meet the critical care needs of communities, including an adult geriatric care nurse practitioner certificate, a nurse anesthetist program and a flight nursing education program — the first in the nation to train both nurses and paramedics and the second to include a flight simulator. And there’s more to come. “We will continue elevating our programs with innovative pathways, fresh approaches to teaching and new technologies as we prepare nursing students for careers grounded in exceptional, compassionate care,” Chilton says. “Our mission is clear: We are here to serve the students who will serve East Texas.”
45
Lourdes Moore (MBA), vice president of the Harris Health System Center for Nursing Excellence, was honored as a Distinguished Practitioner Fellow and inducted into the National Academies of Practice.
C O N T I N U E D F R O M P G . 14 got married and began a series of moves with her husband as he played football in the NFL. Chilton’s interest in nursing continued to intensify. In her undergraduate studies in biology and health, she took several courses that qualified as nursing prerequisites. Only lacking a few, she decided to complete them through correspondence courses as time permitted. Chilton and her husband were residing in Kansas City, Missouri, when she applied and was accepted to the University of Kansas School of Nursing. From day one of classes, Chilton knew nursing school was where she belonged. “I absolutely loved it and never looked back,” she says. “I still remember the first eight weeks and what it felt like to be there, and I remember every lecture. I was so alert and excited, I didn’t even have to take notes. It was a vibrant, engaging experience.” She and her husband started a family during her time in nursing school. After graduating, she worked as a medical-surgical nurse for a year and then chose to focus on caring for her young children as the family continued to relocate. They eventually returned to Texas, settling near Tyler. Chilton joined the nursing staff in Jacksonville Independent School District, where her children attended school.
Jacksonville ISD school nurse setting. In that role, she became acquainted with School of Nursing faculty, who suggested she sign up for their online Master of Science in Nursing program. “I thought they were just being nice, but they weren’t — they meant it, so I enrolled,” Chilton recalls with a smile. She earned her master’s as well as her PhD in nursing at UT Tyler in 2008 and 2012, respectively.
SUMMER 2026
Lauryn Reagan (BS biology) began work as a general dentist in Kernersville, North Carolina, after completing her Doctor of Dental Surgery from The University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio.
Shaping the Future of Caring
ALUMNI
in the spring and is beginning her residency in family medicine at the UT Austin Dell Medical School. She also is pursuing a fellowship in sports medicine.
I N
M E M O R I A M
The University of Texas at Tyler family pays tribute to the memory of: FACULTY & STAFF
Laura L. Brewster Oct. 6, 2025 Annie M. Jordan Nov. 14, 2025 Bonnie L. Lane
Aleysubha Skariah Nov. 12, 2025
CREDIT TKTKT
UTTYLER.EDU
46
UT TYLER MAGAZINE
Nov. 8, 2025
“I chose UT Tyler because of the incredible professors who are always working with students to bring them to the next level.” Carson McCarthy CLASS OF 2028 Mechanical Engineering BSME
SUMMER 2026 47
Learn more at uttyler.edu
UTTYLER.EDU
The University of Texas at Tyler makes it easy to discover your future with more than 90 undergraduate and graduate degree programs leading to in-demand careers in a variety of fields. Plus, small class sizes, affordable tuition and cutting-edge research opportunities combine to create an educational experience unlike any other.
UTTYLER.EDU
CREDIT TKTKT
48
UT TYLER MAGAZINE
SUMMER 2026
UT TYLER PHOTO
UTTYLER.EDU
CREDIT TKTKT
49
Filming in the UT Tyler media production studio in the early 1980s.