The College of Education honored graduates at the Fall 2015 Graduation Convocation which was held at Hofheinz Pavilion on Friday, December 18, 2015.  Robert McPherson, Dean of the College of Education, greeted and congratulated each of our students as they walked across the stage.

“Graduation is a time of celebration, of goals completed, and dreams realized. Each student here today was mentored, encouraged, and supported by our excellent faculty and staff and I'm proud to be part of such an amazing team," said McPherson.  "The graduates in the College of Education will impact teaching, leadership, health promotion, counseling, and research in their chosen fields and I am honored to be a part of their journey to change the world.”

Among those who participated from the College of Education were students receiving doctoral, masters and undergraduate degrees. Ashton Taylor de Cardenas, who received a B.S. in Health Promotion, served as a banner bearer during the Convocation.

McPherson also hosted the College of Education Graduation Reception on December 18th which was held at the Hilton University of Houston immediately following the convocation.

“Graduation is always an exciting time.  We get to know  our students, and then to see them walk across the stage in their caps and gowns is a heartwarming experience,” said associate dean of Undergraduate Studies, Andrea Burridge.  “Every member of the College of Education team, whether it be faculty, advisor, or staff, is involved in helping them reach their goals.   We enjoy meeting their families and celebrating with them at the graduation reception; it gives us a sense of accomplishment to share in their success.”

Graduating students brought family and friends to the reception, which provided students an opportunity to share parting words with their favorite faculty and staff members.

Lateki Lewis who graduated with an Ed.D. in Administration & Supervision – Higher Education is proud to be a graduate of the College of Education. “I have had the goal of receiving my doctorate degree since I was a freshman in high school. My Principal was the first person I had met that was a Doctor of Education,” she said.  “It opened my eyes to a new possibility of a career in Education Administration. Throughout my 13 years working at UH as a staff member, my goal has been to become an administrator.”

Lewis credits Department of Educational Leadership & Policy Studies professor, Alexander Schilt with making a lasting impression because he shared his experiences as a former UH Chancellor. “We discussed issues facing university presidents and discussed the likelihood of UH becoming a Tier One institution before it occurred,” she said. “Understanding what is required to be a Carnegie Foundation designated public Tier One Research University makes me proud to be an alumni.”

The College of Education would like to thank the hard working student and staff volunteers who helped make the convocation and reception a great success.