Dean's Message:
As November arrives and the crisp West Texas autumn settles across our campus, we find ourselves entering one of the busiest and most vibrant stretches of the academic year. It is also the season to celebrate Thanksgiving, a time to pause, draw a deep breath, and take stock of everything we have to be thankful for. As a community dedicated to growth, learning, and service, this is a perfect time to reflect on our journey, appreciate the people standing beside us, and recognize the abundance that surrounds us every single day.
In the Terry B. Rogers College of Education and Social Sciences, gratitude comes naturally when we observe the extraordinary dedication of our students, faculty, and staff. This month’s newsletter highlights the remarkable ways our college community continues to lead, serve, and educate.
Whether reflecting on national rankings, student excellence, community outreach, or faculty achievements, we have so much to celebrate in this edition. As you scroll through and read about our outstanding students, faculty milestones, and campus involvement, I encourage you to slow down just a bit. Let’s reclaim the spirit of Thanksgiving, not just as a holiday on the calendar, but as a daily practice of appreciation for this incredible community we share.
Wishing you and your families a warm, peaceful, and joyful Thanksgiving season.
Dr. Gary Bigham
Regents Professor and Dean
| Who is the Dean and where is his office? Core 90 IDS students know. | |
Their mission ... was to find Dean Bigham.
The freshman IDS course introduces students to the social sciences while equipping them with the skills and habits necessary for success in college. Students actively explore campus resources and learn about the leadership structure, including a search for Dean Bigham.
Welcome to the Dean's office. It was great to meet all the students who completed the mission.
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Coming Soon ...
TBRCOESS Cocoa and Coat Giveaway
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Join TBRCOESS faculty and students for our annual FREE Cocoa and Coat Giveaway.
Tuesday, November 17
11:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.
JBK Legacy Hall
Free hot chocolate, festive games, and winter gear giveaway, including coats, long-sleeve shirts, scarves, and gloves.
Grab some cocoa, play a few games, pick up something cozy, and celebrate the season with us. Community helping community.
If you have a gently worn coat you can donate, or for more information contact: amacchione@wtamu.edu
| | WTAMU Continues to Be Recognized | | |
West Texas A&M University continues to climb in the 2027 U.S. News & World Report rankings, earning recognition for academic excellence, affordability and student success.
No. 7 in TX for Regional Universitities (West)
No. 3 in TX for Top Public Schools in the West
No. 1 in TX for Best Value for In-State Students
No. 3 in TX for Best Colleges for Veterans
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TBRCOESS Advisory Board
Actively Supports Student Success
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The TBRCOESS Advisory Board met in October to actively engage with the development of the college's strategic plan.
The strategic plan is the guiding document for the future of the college. The Advisory Board is an outstanding group of professionals and supporters invested in helping guide the direction of the college's future.
We extend our most sincere appreciation to all our board members for their valuable time, knowledge, and experience with our programs and students.
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"While you're here ..."
Classes never miss an opportunity to catch Terry B. Rogers when she is in the building.
Ms. Rogers graciously accepted an invitation to EDRD 4320 with her friendly smile and warm encouragement to students.
Our college is proud to be named after such an inspiring leader.
| | Recognizing Outstanding Students | | TBRCOESS recognizes the following students in academic excellence, active engagement, and exceptional leadership. | |
Ms. Kenna Klameth, B.S. Education, EC-6
Congratulations to Ms. Kenna Klameth on being chosen as Student of the Month.
Education faculty stated, "Kenna is the student representative for the High Plains Teaching & Learning Initiative Advisory Council. In this role, she advocates for teacher candidates at a roundtable of regional leaders and is a model of professionalism. She was complimented by area superintendents for her knowledge of education policy even though she is a pre-service teacher. We are so fortunate to have her represent the Educator Prep Program."
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Ms. Ycelsa Taveras, B.A. Art Education
Congratulations to Ms. Cici Taveras on being chosen as Student of the Month.
Her nomination stated, "Cici has been such a wonderful student leader in educational psychology. She is a critical thinker and is passionate about education. Cici works really hard in my class, engages with her peers, and makes the class better with her participation. She will change lives and make a huge impact in education."
| Congratulations to these outstanding students. | |
2026 Fall Department of Education
Pinning Ceremony
| | The Department of Education officially welcomed future educators into WT's Educator Preparation Program (EPP) during the 2026 Fall Pinning ceremony. | |
The keynote speaker was Dr. Shanna Peeples, Assistant Professor of Education and 2015 National Teacher of the Year. She reminded aspiring educators that teaching is a calling, and she encouraged teacher candidates to live and lead with purpose.
The candidates read the Buff Educator Affirmation as they committed to taking the first steps toward the noble profession of teaching.
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The following EPP honorees included:
- Aliyah Hernandez
- Amanda Miller
- Benjamin Hodge
- Brandon Winslow (Photo)
- Carina Zambrano
- Cindy Enriquez
- Esther Lovell
- Faith Zimmer
- Florecelda Luis
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- Gabriella Castillo
- Jacklyn Chacon
- Jazzlynn De La Fuente
- Johnathan-Jayce Fanelli-Burnett
- Kaitlyn Speck
- Katharine Porter
- Katie Massey
- Kenidee Hayes
- Kenidi Baze
- Keyaira Mata (photo)
- Madison Flores-Salazar
- Makenlie Smith
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- Maricela Soto
- Maya Sena
- Nallely Garcia
- Noemi Ruiz
- Rainee Lopez
- Regan Rath
- Samantha Escalante (Photo)
- Ycelsa Taveras
- Yvonne Marquez
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View all pinning photos on PixieSet.com.
(Fun header photo taken at the pinning ceremony.)
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You've found your path. Keep moving forward. Graduate.Succeed.
| | Texas A&M System Hosted Student AI Panel | | |
Student Body Vice President Madyson McAshlan represented WTAMU at the 2026 Texas A&M University System AI Student Learnathon.
Madyson is an Ag Media Communication Major with a minor in Political Science.
Great job, Madyson.
View more information and events at HUB.TAMUS.EDU
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WT's McNair Scholars Showcased
a Wide Array of Student Research
| | The McNair Scholars Showcase was an excellent opportunity for students to present their research to the WT community. Three scholars from the Terry B. Rogers College and Education and Social Sciences presented research at the showcase. | | |
Kimberly Beltrán, a senior psychology major from Amarillo: “Affirming the Healer, Honoring the Patient: Psychological Strategies for Equitable BIPOC Care."
Ms. Beltrán is working with Dr. Alicia Macchione, Assistant Professor of Psychology on her research project.
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Elaina Stoker, a junior psychology major from Brownfield: “How AI Affects Emotional Regulation Following Performance Feedback”."
Ms. Stocker is working with Dr. Alicia Macchione, Assistant Professor of Psychology on her research project.
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Derek Valdez, a junior history-education major from Amarillo: “The Council Movement in the German Revolution."
Mr. Valdez is working with Dr. Elizabeth Clark, Professor of History on his research project.
| | Students Experience First Buffalo Vision Social Work Simulation | |
WTAMU's Social Work Program
recently held its first simulation in the Buffalo Vision Room!
Social Work Faculty collaborated with Genaveve Miller, WTAMU's Vision Coordinator, to transform photographs of an Amarillo home into an immersive learning experience.
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Students in instructor Alyssa Jenkins' social work class conducted a home safety and needs assessment for a client preparing for hospital discharge, applying classroom knowledge in a realistic setting.
The program looks forward to developing additional simulations to strengthen students' skills and confidence before entering field practicum and professional practice.
| | Future Women in Criminal Justice Conference Encouraged Younger Generation | | Learning Outside the Classroom | |
Dr. Campbell's Education STEM Class
Dr. Ashley Campbell's education students toured the Amarillo Botanical Gardens new butterfly house.
Dr. Campbell's course teaches students the knowledge and skills for teaching (STEM) curriculum in elementary and middle school students with an emphasis on integrative, constructive, hands-on inquiry methods, authentic assessment, and national and state standards.
Future teachers learning how to teach STEM subjects to their future students.
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CRIJ 1306 & 3372 Student Tour Opportunity
Several students from Court Systems and Practices, and Prisons in America courses had an opportunity to tour the Clement's Unit in Amarillo.
Students are learning about Judiciary in the criminal justice system. Some areas of learning include; the structure of the American court system, prosecution, right to counsel, grand juries, and evidence. The courses also cover sentencing, and the role and philosophy of imprisonment in both juvenile and adult corrections.
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Learning outside the classroom brings insightful, practical learning experiences and discussions.
| | Pre-Law Active Student Organization | | |
The Pre-Law Student Association met for their first meeting of the semester. As one of the largest student organizations in the college, it was designed to establish community among WT students with a shared interest in legal studies. It supports students’ legal and political education, offers law school admissions resources and LSAT tips, and assists with networking, job placement, and other career preparation.
View more information and photos at https://www.instagram.com/wtprelaw
| | Center for Learning Disabilities | | |
WTAMU's Center for Learning Disabilities brought together a hard-working group of 80-90 professional educators to learn from an outstanding speaker Roxana Stanley. She presented practical tools on evaluating bilingual and emergent language learners.
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This workshop focused on professional educators from across communities who assess students, including Educational Diagnosticians, School Psychologists, and Speech Pathologists.
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As the Fourteenth year of the Helen Piehl Distinguished Lecture Series, the annual event supports professional speakers and trainings for students, parents and families, and educational professionals.
View more events available through the Center for Learning Disabilities.
| | Charles Butt Scholarship Recruitment Day | | |
The Charles Butt Scholarship Recruitment Day was a 1950's happening event. Recruiting for the next 2027-2028 cohort of Charles Butt Scholars was a blast from the past.
The Charles Butt Foundation awards Scholarships from $8,000 - $10,000 per year to education students until they graduate.
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On-hand at the event were the previous Charles Butt Scholars who are continuing to receive yearly support. The student scholars encouraged other students to apply, step through the application process, and be a part of the next cohort of potential awardees beginning 2027.2028.
| | "Discover WT" Welcomed Interested Students and Families to Campus | | |
West Texas A&M University welcomed future students interested in attending WT at the Discover WT event. The immersive, interactive University preview day provided an opportunity for academic departments to showcase their programs and career opportunities with potential future students and their families.
A special thank you to faculty, Kristy Bartlett, Amy Carlson, Jennifer Denham, Steven Hubbard, and Allison Kleman for connecting directly with students and sharing their passions and experiences while working in their respective fields.
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Discover what's possible. Graduate.Succeed.
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2026-2027 Faculty and Student
Killgore Research Grants
| | Three Terry B Rogers College of Education and Social Sciences faculty received Killgore Faculty Research Grants for 2026-2027 totaling $12,669. | | Jeanette Bissoni, Instructor of Criminal Justice; Sleep, Unconscious Transference, and Eyewitness Memory | | Dr. Leigh Green, Associate Professor of Education, Counselor Program Director; Extending Performance-Based Ethical Assessment to a Foundational Course | | Dr. Misty Song, Assistant Professor of Education and Dr. Vincent Nix, Assistant Professor of Education; Puentes al Futuro: Communication Needs of Hispanic LEP Parents | | |
The President’s Undergraduate Student Grants totaling $7,000 also included:
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Evalyn Pichcuskie, Psychology major; Fidget Me This: Perceptions of Professionals Who Use Fidgets
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Elaina Stoker, Psychology major; AI’s Effects on Emotional Processing Following Media Viewing
Congratulations and best wishes on your research projects.
| | Kappa Delta Pi (KDP) Recognized Dr. Denham as Regional Counselor of the Year | | |
Congratulations to Dr. Jennifer Denham. KDP's letter of recognition stated, "As a dedicated leader, you have gone above and beyond, representing the values of KDP with heart and excellence. Whether guiding your chapter, mentoring future leaders, or bringing fresh ideas to the table, you truly shine in your role as Counselor. That’s why we are excited that you are the West Chapter Counselor of the Year! This award celebrates the best of the best from each region, and we couldn’t be prouder to recognize your outstanding contributions. Thank you for your passion, leadership, and for making KDP thrive!"
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Congratulations, Dr. Denham.
| | Dr. Whaley Shares and Publishes Research | | |
On October 2, Dr. Brigette Whaley, Doug Loomis Professor of Education, was invited by Reprepsentative Fairly's office to attend a small-group roundtable discussion on screen time with Governor Abbott to share her research.
Dr. Whaley shared, "I was able to speak directly with the governor about my research and offer suggestions for incorporating guideline implementation into upcoming policies under consideration."
Dr. Whaley's research on cell phones in the classroom has gained state and national attention.
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Congratulations Ed.D. graduate Dr. F. Ley Sylvester, and Drs. Harper and Whaley on an upcoming research publication in JCEL. Dr. Harper chaired the scholarly delivery committee resulting in the published student research.
JCEL Statement, "Congratulations on the acceptance of your paper Factors Influencing Higher Education Employees’ Cybersecurity Behavior (DOI: 10.1177/15554589261499675/ ID: JCEL-25-0009.R3)."
Sylvester, F., Harper, I., & Whaley, B. (2026). Factors influencing higher education employees’ cybersecurity behavior. Journal of Cases in Educational Leadership.
Prior to graduation, Dr. Sylvester was Dr. Whaley's research assistant on the ONR PERFECT grant last year.
Congratulations on publication of their research.
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Dr. Whaley was also highlighted in an Association of College and University Educators (ACUE) post.
Her comment stated, "Completing ACUE has been a part of my continued growth as an educator."
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Advance your education. Advance your future. Graduate.Succeed.
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Dr. Rausch Interviewed
Regarding Election Campaign Visits
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We are proud of our local political science expert Dr. Dave Rausch, Teel Bivins Professor of Political Science, who regularly gets asked for interviews around voting season.
In this KAMR MyHighPlains.com interview, Dr. Rausch was asked about the surge of local campaign visits.
Thank you, Dr. Rausch, for your knowledge and service to our community.
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Voting Day
Dr. Brandon Bang, sporting his U.S. Constitution pants, showed up at the polling location where Dr. Rausch was working on voting day. We were proud to see both professors fulfilling their civic duty in support of our democracy and fundamental right to vote.
Dr. Rausch confirmed the photo was taken outside the voting room, because under Texas law, persons are not allowed to use wireless communication devices within a room in which voting is taking place.
Thank you to everyone who voted and served.
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Dr. Alamdari Serving as Reviewer
for Prestigious National Award
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Dr. Sara Alamdari was invited to serve as a reviewer for the Society for Social Work and Research (SSWR) Doctoral Fellows Award at the national level.
The Society for Social Work and Research (SSWR) Doctoral Fellows Award recognizes and supports doctoral students whose proposed dissertation research demonstrates innovative ideas and rigorous methodologies related to social work research, policy, or practice.
Dr. Alamdari's knowledge and experience will add value and insight to the applicant review process.
Thank you for your service, Dr. Alamdari.
| | Dr. Miller Presented at the Texas Library Association District 2 Fall Meeting | |
Dr. Lydia Miller, Assistant Professor of Social Work, was invited to present at the Texas Library Association (TLA) District 2 Fall Meeting on bibliotherapy, hosted at the Amarillo Public Library.
Literacy as Lifeline: Evidence-Based Bibliotherapy for Educators (Dr. Lydia Miller, DSW, LCSW-S, MT-BC, West Texas A&M University)
Thank you, Dr. Miller, for sharing your knowledge and time with local library leaders.
| | Psychology Faculty Spotted in the Wild | | |
The PSYC faculty traded the classroom for the football field to cheer on the Buffs.
The faculty (including families) also had a great time before the game tailgating with the Psychology Club and connecting with students.
Fun times together as Buffs.
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Coming Soon ...
33rd Annual WT Gallery of Excellence
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November 18; 2:30 p.m. - 4:00 p.m. in the Cornette Library
WT Staff Council and WT Office of Career and Professional Development cordially invites you to the 33rd Annual Gallery of Excellence. Celebrating WT's award-winning faculty, staff, and students.
We are pleased to celebrate TBRCOESS faculty Dr. Brandon Bang, receiving the Academic Affairs Appreciation Award, and Landrey Posey, B.S. Psychology for Student Employee of the Year.
Congratulations to all the awardees.
| | Appreciation to Faculty and Students | | |
Dr. Reed Welch, Department Head, hosted a thank you lunch for social sciences faculty and staff.
Faculty get busy in the semester, so it was a great time to enjoy a delicious lunch, reconnect with other faculty, and encourage one another as the semester moves into a busy time of year.
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Poppin’ Up to Show Our Appreciation
Dr. Bartlett and faculty recently hosted a student appreciation popup on the second floor of Old Main.
They handed out over 90 cups of popcorn, and everyone seemed to enjoy the treat and a chance to connect.
Thank you to everyone who popped by. Be on the lookout for our next student appreciation popup!
Students, you butter believe you got this.
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Welcome Dr. Erika Schmitt, Assistant Professor of Psychology
Dr. Erika Schmitt joined the Department of Psychology, Sociology, and Social Work in the Fall of 2026.
She received her B.S. (2013) in Psychology and her M.S. (2017) and Psy.S (2020) in School Psychology from Grand Valley State University. In 2024, Dr. Schmitt earned her Ph.D. in School Psychology and a graduate certificate in Women's and Gender Studies from Texas A&M University following an APA-accredited internship at Boys Town with a Child/Adolescent Outpatient Residential Emphasis.
Dr. Schmitt then completed an APA-accredited postdoctoral fellowship at the Munroe-Meyer Institute in School-Based Applied Behavior Analysis Services and Consultation in 2025. Dr. Schmitt is a Nationally Certified School Psychologist and a Board Certified Behavior Analyst.
Welcome Dr. Schmitt.
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Welcome Dr. Amanda Tinsley-Mathias, Assistant Professor of Education
Dr. Amanda Tinsley-Mathias joined the Department of Education, Graduate Counseling Program at West Texas A&M University in the Fall of 2026.
She received a Bachelor of Science in Family Studies with a minor in Alcohol and Addiction Studies from Texas Tech University (2001). She earned her Master of Arts in Marriage and Family Therapy (2005) and Doctor of Philosophy in Marriage and Family with a concentration in Neurofeedback (2008) at St. Mary's University. She is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and Licensed Professional Counselor.
Additionally, Dr. Tinsley-Mathias serves as a Director of the Behavioral Health Workforce Initiative for the Legislative Appropriations Request. In this role she sets the initiative’s strategic direction, builds regional partnerships, and coordinates the work with legislators, funders, and community leaders. She carries the strategic recommendations from the regional workforce landscape analysis through to implementation and sets the evidence standard for workforce decisions in our region.
Welcome Dr. Tinsley-Mathias.
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Happy November Birthday
Heidi Brooks
Stephanie Hart
Jeanette Arpero-Bissoni
Nicole Kraus
Photo by Ashley Campbell
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Students, are you poised to graduate Spring (May) 2027?
You must apply for graduation.
Deadline is December 1, 2026.
Apply Now.
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Call for Proposals - Faculty and Student Research Poster and Research Fair
The call for proposals is open and will remain open until Jan. 8, 2027.
If this is your first time submitting as a presenter, please visit our Faculty and Student Research Poster Session and Research Fair for more information on how to submit and what to expect afterward.
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Fall 2026 Academic Affairs calendar link
Nov. 7: Sat. TAFE Regional Conference at WT; Legacy (Dept. of Education)
Nov. 11: City of Canyon, and WT Veterans Day Ceremony
Nov. 17: TBRCOESS Cocoa & Coats; Legacy
Nov. 18: WT Gallery of Excellence
Nov. 25-27: WT Closes at noon on the 25th; Closed Thanksgiving Holiday
Dec. 2: WT Festival of Lights - 5:00 pm Pedestrian Mall
Dec. 2-3: FA26 Last Class Day & Dead Day
Dec. 3: WT University Christmas Lunch
Dec. 3-10 FA26 Finals
Dec. 12 TBRCOESS Graduation 10:00am FUBC
Dec. 24-Jan.1: WT Closed for Holiday
Jan. 8: Call for Proposals Deadline for SP27 Research Poster Session
Jan. 18: MLK Holiday - University Closed
Jan. 19: 2027SP Semester Begins
March 4: WT Faculty and Student Research Fair & Poster Session
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2501 4th Avenue, Old Main 410, Canyon, TX 79016
(806) 651-2600
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