From Dean Bigham:
As November begins, I’m reminded how grateful I am for the people who make the Terry B. Rogers College of Education and Social Sciences such an exceptional community. Our students, faculty, and staff continue to inspire through their hard work, scholarship, and service.
This month’s newsletter highlights recent achievements, upcoming events, and stories that reflect our shared commitment to learning and leadership. I hope you take pride in the impact we are making—together—at West Texas A&M University and beyond.
With gratitude,
Dr. Gary Bigham
| | Educator's Excellence Initiative (EEI)
is Positively Impacting Student Access to Higher Education | | |
Empowering Educators Across the Panhandle
... and now ... beyond
Educational professionals now have a rare opportunity to affordably advance their education by earning advanced degrees and certifications.
Beginning with spring 2026 courses, WT is expanding the EEI to include all educators employed in schools in Region 16, 17, and 18 Education Service Center areas, as well as all A and AA school districts across the State of Texas.
JUST ANNOUNCED ... includes Texas Community College EDUCATORS
West Texas A&M University is proud to offer the WT Educators Excellence Initiative (WT EEI), providing a 50-percent tuition and mandatory fee reduction for eligible teachers, administrators, librarians, nurses, counselors, paraprofessionals, Education Service Center (ESC employees)
For eligibility and details on the expanded EEI program, click here.
Read the RECENT WT story here
Read the Prairie News Story here
| | Fall 2025 Department of Education Pinning Ceremony was Inspiring | | |
The Fall '25 Educator Preparation Program (EPP) Pinning Ceremony was inspiring to everyone in attendance. The Department of Education recognized 42 future teachers committed to following the educational pathway to becoming a teacher.
Local keynote speaker Mrs. Brandi Johnson (photo) shared her touching experiences and positive impact of being called to be a teacher.
Students received their program certificates and their EPP pin.
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Students recognized at the ceremony include:
Melanie Applegate, senior, Amarillo Brittany Bartlett, senior, Lubbock (Pictured with Dr. Bigham)
Nikayla Brown, junior, Hereford Garren Bustamante, senior, Amarillo Sterling Buttrill, senior, Amarillo
Anna Carrillo, senior, Bovina
Gracia Cox, junior, Amarillo
Jared Duran, senior, Athens
Alexia Eilenstine, junior, Clovis, NM
Lizbeth Estrella, junior, Amarillo
Susanna Flores, senior, Hereford
Shantell Ford, junior, Allison
Taetem Fox, junior, Wilmington, North Carolina
Carson Fuller, sophomore, Wildorado
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Naydeli Garcia, junior, Hereford (Pictured)
Maggie Houlihan, junior, Panhandle
Bethani House, senior, Canyon
Annelise Hutchens, senior, Hereford
Claudia Itza, senior, San Benito
Shawnda Jenkins, senior, Amarillo
Christie Jones, junior, Amarillo
Marquita Jones, junior, Amarillo
Brynn Longley, junior, Clovis, New Mexico
Rebecca Mashburn, junior, Amarillo
Savannah Miller, senior, Canyon
Jacey Montgomery, senior, Pampa
Gabriella Morales, senior, Wylie
McKenzie Musick, sophomore, Amarillo
Crystal Ortiz, senior, Dumas
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Sydney Ortiz, senior, Gruver (Pictured)
Lyndsey Pancost, junior, Milliken, Colorado
Kylee Perez, senior, Pampa
Trinity Puryear, junior, Amarillo
Cede Ramirez, junior, Amarillo
Natalee Romero, senior, Floydada
Emmi Schmitt, junior, Pampa
Allison Seymour, senior, Amarillo
Joy Taylor, senior, Amarillo
Camille Thomas, junior, Bridge City
Fayth Thompson, senior, Andrews
Nola Trolinder, junior, Canyon
Karen Williams, senior, Farwell
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Mrs. Terry B. Rogers (the college's namesake) encouraged students on what a lifetime of being an educator could accomplish. She was a teacher and a principal before retiring.
The life of an educator is a valuable and meaningful profession.
| | Making Memories Along the Way | | Lovely Evening with Margaret Renkl | |
Writing and Nature and Life
These topics brought out a diverse group of attendees to listen to special speaker Margaret Renkl.
The award-winning author shared about her experience with writing and inspired an appreciation of nature and the seasons of life.
It was a lovely evening. Thank you, Ms. Renkl.
| | Bachelor in Social Work (BSW) Celebrating 50th Anniversary | |
Honoring 50 years of service education
The Social Work faculty, students, and community members came together to celebrate 50 years of education that teaches students to serve our communities most vulnerable members.
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Still to come ...
Navigating Ethical Challenges in Social Work Conference
Presented by the WTAMU Master of Science in Social Work
Friday, November 14, 2025
12:00pm - 4:00pm
Virtual Conference
$15 Registration Fee
Read about the Social Work program here.
| | Center for Learning Disabilities Shines | | |
The WT Center for Learning Disabilities presented a poster at the conference titled “Dyslexia Identification: Dyslexia Legislation Trends in Rural and Urban Schools” The research was conducted by Dr. Michelle Simmons, Dr. Stephanie Hart, Dr. Mikyung Shin, Dr. Jennifer Denham, and Puff Niegos.
“Pictured are Puff Niegos, Dr. Michelle Simmons, and Dr. Jennifer Denham.
| | Presenters also enjoyed a bit of pasta making fun with other education specialists across the country and the staff at EPS Learning curriculum company. | | Eventful Month for Ed.D. Education Faculty Presentations | |
Doctoral Faculty Supporting All WT Students
Dr. Nix and Dr. Song presented a career-focused talk to residents of Cross Hall and participated in a "Paint your own Clipboard" program at Centeniall Hall.
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Dr. Misty Song and Dr. Vince Nix also Presented Research to Several Different Groups
Presented work from Dr. Song's dissertation in the form of a research poster, at the Assessment Institute, in Indianapolis, IN. Dr. Song's dissertation was in response to a specific call for research from Dr. Stephen Hundley, Professor, Indiana University, pictured with Dr. Song in front of her poster!
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On 10/28 they presented an early morning session with Dr. Erin Thomas of Illinois State University, regarding research on the student affairs research profession, also at the Assessment Institute in Indianapolis.
Later the same day also on 10/28, they presented with Drs. Joseph Levy (Excelsior University) and Sarah Wu (Georgia Tech University) to a packed house, regarding Observation Oriented Modeling (OOM). (Photo)
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Their presentations have also been published as peer-reviewed manuscripts:
Nix, J. V., Wu, Y.-C., Song, L. M., & Levy, J. D. (2024). Analyzing Small Sample Sizes After Disaggregation: Exploring Observation Oriented Modeling for Assessing Learning Outcomes. RPA Journal : Journal of Research & Practice in Assessment, 19(1), 72–88.
Song, L. M., & Nix, J. V. (2025). A transformative mixed-methods study: Legitimizing affective learning outcomes assessment. Intersection: A Journal at the Intersection of Assessment and Learning, 6(2), 102–119. https://doi.org/10.61669/001c.143373
Song, L. M., Nix, J. V., Brooks Nelson, E., Gibbons, R., Thomas, E., & Young, L. (2025). The 2023 landscape report: Practitioners’ perceptions on the field of student affairs assessment. Intersection: A Journal at the Intersection of Assessment and Learning, 6(2), 35–57. https://doi.org/10.61669/001c.143491
Both Dr. Song and Dr. Nix are happy to be safe and sound back in Amarillo!
| | Region 16 School Counselor Training | | |
Over 60 Region 16 Counselors received training
Dr. Rogers and Dr. Harriman supported over 60 Region 16 school counselors on Wednesday, October 15. They provided school counselors with ethical training, a discussion of legislative updates in education, small group counseling techniques training, and data management strategies in the Comprehensive School Counseling Program.
It was wonderful getting to support these fabulous educators across the Panhandle!
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Recognizing Outstanding
Students of the Month
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Cayden Hodnett - Agricultural Education, 6-12
Academic Performance in Coursework/Grades and Engagement in Profession
Nomination Letter: Cayden has shown his level of professionalism by how he interacts in class and with me as a professor. Cayden is very active in the Ag department with meat judging and is a Herdsmen. He has demonstrated his inclusion of all students by sharing his experiences with me.
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Amanda Larsen - Pre-Social Work
Upstanding Character and Professionalism
Nomination Letter: Amanda is new to WT and the Social Work Program. She has made a point to communicate with her instructors regularly and professionally to ensure that she is remaining on schedule with her coursework. I commend her willingness to ask questions and visit with me during office hours.
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Morgana Simmons – Sociology
Academic Performance in Major and Engagement in Program
Nomination Letter: Morgana Simmons’ hard work and commitment to excellence show in the classroom, where they have consistently achieved at the highest level and earned a place on the President’s List multiple times. What makes Morgana stand out even more is the way she gives back to the community, applying her understanding of sociology to help and serve others in meaningful ways. She not only grasps the theories and ideas we study but also brings them to life through service and compassion.
| | | Congratulations to these outstanding students! | | Intern of the Year Nominee Alison Sweeney | | |
Congratulations to Alison Sweeney, nominee for Student Intern of the Year. Ms. Sweeney completed her internship with Congressman Keith Self in summer 2025. Her story was shared in the October newsletter that conveyed the experience was transformative.
Thank you, Alison, for representing WTAMU in Washington, DC, and congratulations on the nomination.
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Welcome Dr. Sahar Sheikh
Assistant Professor of Counseling
Professional Profile
Dr. Sahar Sheikh recently graduated with a PhD in Counselor Education and Supervision from the University of Toledo, where she also earned both her bachelor’s and master’s degrees in psychology and clinical mental health counseling. Since Fall 2021, she has taught counseling courses (graduate and undergraduate) at the University of Toledo. She truly enjoys creating interactive classroom experiences with students in both virtual and in-person settings.
Dr. Sheikh's Bio
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Welcome Ms. Farrah Walton, LSSP
Instructor of Psychology
Professional Profile
Farrah Walton joined the Department of Psychology, Sociology, and Social Work full time in Fall 2025. She has been teaching at WTAMU as a part-time instructor since 2022. She obtained her B.A. degree in Psychology from West Texas A&M University in 2015, Specialist in School Psychology from West Texas A&M University in 2018. She is a licensed School Psychologist in Texas.
Ms. Walton's Bio
| | Honoring Faculty and Staff at Gallery of Excellence | |
Gallery of Excellence
November 12, 2025
2:30 p.m. - 4:00 p.m.
Cornette Library
Come and join Staff Council and the Office of Career and Professional Development as we celebrate our award-winning staff and faculty for the 32nd annual Gallery of Excellence.
Honoring Dr. Leigh Green, Distinguished Innovation in Teaching Awardee, and Mr. Gilbert Antunez, awarded Academic Affairs Staff Excellence.
| | Major Exploration Fair Provides Answers to WT Students Interested in Social Service | | TBRCOESS faculty and advisors were on-hand at WT's Major Exploration Fair to answer WT student questions about our programs and professional job opportunities within our college professions. Buffs helping Buffs! | | Cheering on the Athletic Buffs | | |
TBRCOESS faculty came out to cheer on the Athletic Buff's new season in the traditional Maroon and White Tip-Off Classic dinner.
Drs. Rausch, Bang, Pinkham, Song, Williams, and Nix show our support for our athletic Buffs at WTAMU!
Go Buffs!
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McNair Scholars Research Showcase
Three TBRCOESS students were among McNair Scholars to showcase their research at a recent symposium.
- Logan Canada, a senior psychology major from Amarillo: “The Limits of Accountability: Null Effects in Hiring Bias Involving Gay Applicants”
- Alex Holguin, a junior psychology major from Amarillo: “Barriers to treatment and ethnic identity effects in college students’ attitudes towards seeking mental health help”
- Riven Robinson, a junior psychology major from Levelland: “‘I Want to Be Like Them’: How Attractiveness can Influence Self-Diagnosis Through Social Media”
| | Highlighting Student Organizations | | Kappa Delta Pi (KDP), lota Theta Chapter | | |
"My name is Emily Montgomery, and I’m honored to serve as the President of Kappa Delta Pi (KDP), Iota Theta Chapter here at WTAMU. I’m a senior Agricultural Education major, and my goal is to see this organization thrive and make a lasting impact on our campus and community.
Kappa Delta Pi is more than just an honor society—it’s a network of future educators coming together to grow, connect, and support each other. Our mission is to inspire and equip teachers to thrive, while also serving our community and preparing for a smooth transition from campus to classroom."
Reach out to Dr. Jennifer Denham, faculty advisor for more information.
| | Criminal Justice Association (CJA) Student Organization is connecting through fun! | |
Criminal Justice Program is hosting Lunch and Learn
Thinking about a career in law enforcement?
Come meet the Randall County Sheriff' s Office and explore your future in public safety!
November 6
12:15p.m. - 1:00 p.m.
CC 433
| | TBRCOESS Study Abroad in Ireland SU26 | | |
Dr. Leigh Green and Dr. Beth Garcia
will be leading the "Perspectives in Counseling & Education: Ireland" program. This program will be taking place in Ireland from June 8th-18th. The focus of the program will be on organizations in Ireland to see how policy, practice, and community-based services intersect in another country. This comparative experience will help students reflect on their own cultural assumptions and professional practices.
Courses COUN 6300/6324/6399, COUN 6328/6374/6334, COUN 6392/6398
EDPD 4378/6303/6329, EDRD/EDEC 6392, EDEL 4372
For more Information, click here to Study Abroad website
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A BIG Deal
The Buff Teacher Residency Program is a clinical teaching opportunity that offers inspiring educators a meaningful yearlong learning experience where they co-teach alongside a skilled mentor, gaining authentic classroom experience, and building their confidence to lead their own classrooms.
Education Buff Teacher Residency website link here
| | Charles Butt Scholarship Information Day | |
EPP Staff Time-warped to the 1980s for the Raddest Charles Butt Scholarship Information Party of the Decade
The Charles Butt Foundation awards some of the largest yearly scholarships to future teachers (up to $10,000 per year) at WT. The EPP staff and current Charles Butt Scholarship recipients came out to encourage students to apply for the scholarship and to answer questions about the scholarship application process. In 2025.2026, ten WTAMU students received $8,000 annual scholarships for a total of $80,000. These funds help supplement educational costs toward becoming a future teacher.
The scholarship application is now open to qualified applicants. Click to apply.
| | Cozy Coats and Cocoa with COESS | |
Coats and Cocoa
Tuesday, Nov. 18
11:30 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.
Hazel Kelly Wilson (JBK)
You're invited to attend Coats and Cocoa with the Terry B. Rogers College of Education & Social Sciences!
Enjoy a warm cup of cocoa
Pick up free WT-branded swag - scarves, gloves, and more
Grab some winter gear to stay cozy all season
Connect with friends, students, and faculty in TBRCOESS.
Coat donations also appreciated.
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| 2026 Research Fair Proposals Open | | |
The Planning Committee is now accepting proposals for the 21st Annual Faculty and Student Research Poster Session and Research Fair.
Proposals are due Friday, January 9, 2026. Notifications of acceptance will be provided no later than Friday, February 6th.
This event will be held Thursday, March 5, 2026 in the Cornette Library Gallery and Atrium. Save the date to participate or attend.
Check out the webpage for more information on how to submit your proposal and watch a video of one of our previous events.
If you have any questions, please reach out to Kelly M. Hoppe or by phone at 651-2212.
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Hey Students ...
Rogers Lead WT Applications are open.
Priority Deadline is December 28, 2025
Final Deadline is February 22, 2026
An excellent way to develop your leadership skills.
Rogers Lead WT webpage here
| | Psych Halloween Party Means Dress for Fun! | | |
Celebrating the following faculty and staff with November birthdays.
Heidi Brooks
Stephanie Hart
Jeanette Arpero-Bissoni
Elizabeth Rogers
Nicole Kraus
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Nov. 11: WT & Canyon Veterans Day Celebration, everyone
11:00am @ WT's Veterans Memorial
Nov. 12: Gallery of Excellence - 2:30-4:00p.m. Cornette Library, everyone:
Nov. 18: Coats & Cocoa - 11:30 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. JBK, everyone
Nov. 18: Staff Council Thanks4Giving event. 2-4 p.m., Faculty/Staff
Nov. 27-28: WT Closed - Thanksgiving Holiday, everyone
Dec. 3: ALL; WT Festival of Lights, everyone
6:00pm-8:00pm @ Vaughn Pedestrian Mall
Dec. 3: FACULTY & STUDENTS; Last Class Day, Academic date
Dec. 4: WT Holiday Lunch, Faculty/Staff
Dec. 5: Finals Begin, Academic date
Dec. 13: TBRCOESS Graduation Ceremony, 10:00 am. FUBC, everyone
Dec. 15: Grades Due 9:00am - Academic date
Dec. 15: Jan Intersession begins - Academic date
Dec. 24-Jan. 1: WT Closed for the Holidays
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