CEP Celebrates Outstanding Alumni

May 1, 2024 | Hannah Buchanan

The College of Education and Psychology celebrated graduates at the annual Alumni Bash event, held at the Alumni House. The Distinguished Alumni Awards are given to alums who have achieved noteworthy success in their professional fields, made significant impact in the communities they serve, and/or contributed significantly to their field/discipline. Read more to learn about this year’s recipients.

Psychology and Counseling Department 2024 Honoree

Justin Lockhart currently serves as a therapist at the San Antonio Behavioral Health Hospital. He is a doctoral candidate and Fellow of Counselor Education and Supervision at UT San Antonio.

Passionate about research and mental health and community advocacy, Lockhart secured nearly $300,000 in grant funding for community partnerships and research advancement. He also has authored several publications in well-respected professional journals.

A graduate of Hendrix College, Lockhart holds a UT Tyler Master of Arts in clinical mental health counseling.

School of Education 2024 Honoree

Rachel Sherman of Carthage currently serves as principal at Three Lakes Middle School within Tyler ISD. She was recently named 2024 Tyler ISD Principal of the Year.

A dedicated, public school educator with 16 years of experience, Sherman previously served as principal at Center Elementary in Center ISD, Fred Douglass Elementary in Jacksonville ISD and Tyler ISD’s Owens Elementary.

She holds a UT Tyler Bachelor of Science of interdisciplinary studies, Master of Education in educational administration, and principal and superintendent certification.