News TAMUC Integrating Effective ‘Life Design’ Courses Into Freshman Curriculum Rosalie and Frank Turner Establish Endowed Professorship for Race Education at TAMUC Dr. Greg and Alicia Hulsey Recognized for Transformational Gift Former TAMUC CFO Becomes ‘Lion for Life’ with Emeritus Honor A&M-Commerce Nationally Ranked by U.S. News & World Report Featured Stories Search News Search Education TAMUC Integrating Effective ‘Life Design’ Courses Into Freshman Curriculum Alumni Rosalie and Frank Turner Establish Endowed Professorship for Race Education at TAMUC COVID-19 TAMUC Robot Living Lab to Partner with Invento Research Education A&M-Commerce Introduces New Cultural Competency Course Alumni Dr. Greg and Alicia Hulsey Recognized for Transformational Gift Alumni Former TAMUC CFO Becomes ‘Lion for Life’ with Emeritus Honor Alumni A&M-Commerce Alumna Making Big Plays in Professional Athlete Management Awards and Achievements A&M-Commerce Nationally Ranked by U.S. News & World Report Education TAMUC Partners with Revature for Technology Certification Opportunities More Stories SUBMIT NEWS News Bites Student Faculty/Staff Alumni Lion Community The A&M-Commerce chapter of the Society of Physics Students (SPS) has been chosen as a Distinguished Chapter for the 2019-2020 academic year. The honor marks the sixth consecutive year the group has received the designation. SPS is an organization of the American Institute of Physics. Officers for the 2019-2020 academic year include Keely Scott, president; Madison Smith, vice president; Flint Morgan, secretary; Allan Teer, historian; and Jaden Hart, treasurer. “We, at the SPS national office, want to take this opportunity to commend and applaud you for your tireless efforts to enrich the SPS community,” said Brad R. Conrad, SPS director. “It is because of your dedication and commitment to the SPS mission and vision that we are able to foster such a strong SPS community.” Learn more about the Society of Physics Students. Students in the College of Humanities, Social Sciences & Arts at Texas A&M University-Commerce teamed up to create a film that took second place in the Broadcast Education Association’s Film 168 Student Film Competition. The students’ film, “Soda Boy,” finished second out of 10 submissions from universities nationwide. Those who worked on the project include: • Producer and Editor: Ashley Fordinal • Director, Editor and Writer: Molly Chavez • Writer: Paisley Jacques • Crew: Aliyah Sabir and Beamer Murphy • Actors: Daryl Brown and Casey Bass • Faculty Advisor: Dr. Tony DeMars See the film. Texas A&M University-Commerce doctoral student Pearlie Lubin was recently selected for a fellowship project by the United States Department of State. She will be teaching English in Costa Rica. In a press release, it was announced that Lubin is one of 170 people selected for the 2020-2021 Virtual English Language Fellow Program. Lubin received her graduate certificate as a Teacher of English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL) from A&M-Commerce and is currently pursuing her doctorate in Higher Education with an emphasis in TESOL from A&M-Commerce. As part of the fellowship, she will teach training courses to improve the communicative language ability of in-service teachers and enhance their teaching practices at Instituto Nacional de Aprendizaje (INA). She is also facilitating a virtual English conversation club at INA and enhancement activities at the FundaTec Virtual Access program. Read the official release. A&M-Commerce student Tabitha Smith was featured in the Texarkana FYI News Hub for her recent recognition as Texarkana Texas Police Department 2020 Officer of the Year. Mother of four and wife to Sgt. Kristopher Smith, Detective Smith is currently pursuing a criminal justice degree at A&M-Commerce. Honored for her esteemed work and long-term service to TTPD, Detective Smith first worked as a patrol officer, member of the Special Investigation Unit, juvenile detective, and now as a detective assigned to handle crimes against persons. According to the News Hub article, Detective Smith has received the Certificate of Merit twice, was recognized as Officer of the Quarter earlier this year, and has earned numerous letters of commendation. Smith is currently assigned to the Investigative Services section where she is a dedicated advocate for victims of sexual assault. In the article, Chief Schutte of TTPD said, “Tabitha is one of the most hard working and dedicated employees of the Texarkana Texas Police Department who is known for her compassion for the victims and their families. She is guided by two principles in her daily work: To find the truth and ensure that the victim’s voice is heard through her investigation. I’m very proud to get to work with her.” Read the full article. Members of the Texas A&M University-Commerce Fishing Team competed in the Carhartt Bassmaster College Series National Tournament, held in Leesburg, Florida, on Oct. 29. Out of 150 competing teams, the two-person tandem of Lions, Augustus McLarry and Dawson Cassidy, finished 27th. This is the first time A&M-Commerce has been represented in the national tournament since the team was formed in 2017. To qualify, a team must either finish in the top 10 at an officially sanctioned tournament or be ranked in the top 25 nationally, based off of points earned in tournaments. The 16-person team competes in about a dozen tournaments per year. The Texas A&M University-Commerce Meat Judging Team continued its run of success in 2020 with an overall victory in the first-ever virtual contest held by the American Meat Science Association. All four team members swept the top four individual scores. Madison Wynne, Colleen Hooge, Katherine Bivens and Kris Barr finished first through fourth place, respectively. A&M-Commerce doctoral student Marquita McCullum was featured in a recent article in the Dallas-based publication, Focus Daily News. The article highlights McCullum’s exemplary leadership during COVID-19 as principal of Lake Ridge Elementary School in Cedar Hill, Texas. In the article, McCullum said collaboration has been key as the school attempts to provide a sense of normalcy to its students throughout the pandemic. “Being a principal during this time is ever-changing,” McCullum said. “We have to be aware of any new information and then communicate that to our parents, scholars and staff.” The article states that McCullum is getting creative in her district with new ways to continue fun and interactive events while incorporating CDC guidelines and maintaining a safe campus. “We are working on creative ways for parental involvement activities, so we can still be connected,” McCullum said, whether that be virtual or socially distanced activities. According to the article, Lake Ridge has worked to assure parents that safety comes first in the district. Faculty and staff training has been administered and procedures are in place to see that the campus remains a safe place. Students are socially distanced in their classrooms, and masks are required at all times, except when eating. Read the full Focus Daily News Article. Rocio Almanza, a teacher at Mesquite Independent School District, recently received a one-year scholarship from the district toward her doctorate at Texas A&M University-Commerce. Almanza is pursuing a doctorate in curriculum and instruction through the Excellence in Teaching Incentive Program (ETIP), a partnership between A&M-Commerce and Mesquite ISD. ETIP encourages the district’s teachers to pursue master’s and doctorate degrees by offering significant earnings increases for teachers who complete the program and maintain certain quality standards in the classroom. Dr. David Vroonland, superintendent for Mesquite ISD, created the scholarship to inspire participation in the ETIP initiative. The scholarship is awarded annually to a teacher pursuing a doctorate through the program. Texas A&M University-Commerce honors student Emma Anderson recently completed a sizable art installation at the Commerce Post Office, located at 1300 Park Street. The wood design bears the resemblance of a USA Forever Stamp emblazoned with a Lion, the mascot of A&M-Commerce. The entire project, which was part of Anderson’s honors thesis, took more than a year to complete. Anderson also intends to petition the United States Postal Service to turn her design into a real Forever Stamp. Read the KETR story on this achievement. A group of A&M-Commerce engineering and physics students recently designed and built a Rube Goldberg machine in the Jimmy and Sherrol Shirley Makerspace on campus, under the direction of A&M-Commerce engineering faculty members Dr. Perry Moler and Patrick Carter. The group included electrical engineering students Caleb Otte, Devin Beamon and Rhiannon Roberts, and physics student Flint Morgan. The students and their machine were featured in a lighthearted video produced by A&M-Commerce alumna Rebekah Grey and distributed by The Texas A&M University System to highlight safety precautions for students during the COVID-19 pandemic. Rube Goldberg was an American cartoonist known for his illustrations depicting devices performing simple tasks in indirect, overly complicated ways. Such devices have gained increased interest thanks to Rube Goldberg competitions and references in pop-culture. View the video. A&M-Commerce student Omar Ramirez’s research study, “Using Fitbit Competitions to Increase Physical Activity in College Students,” has been accepted for publication in The Macksey Journal. The journal is a collection of articles based on presentations given at the annual Richard Macksey National Undergraduate Research Symposium at Johns Hopkins University. Ramirez’s study found that students who use a Fitbit device and app to compete in weekly competitions logged more steps than students wearing a simple pedometer. The results suggest that adding the social and competitive aspects of a mobile app can be a powerful motivator for college students seeking to increase physical activity. Under guidance from Dr. Vipa Bernhardt in the Department of Health and Human Performance, Ramirez conducted the study as part of the McNair Scholars Program. He graduated in May with a double major in human performance and biological sciences. Ramirez is currently a graduate assistant pursuing his master’s degree in the Health, Kinesiology and Sports Studies program. Kelli Lahman, a graduate student in the Specialist in School Psychology program at A&M-Commerce, recently received a scholarship from the Miller-DeLange Education Foundation. The foundation provides scholarships for graduate students who are enrolled in programs to become licensed school psychologists, counselors, speech therapists, dyslexia specialists, occupational therapists and physical therapists who intend to work in educational settings upon graduation. Learn more about the Miller-Delange Education Foundation. (from left) Cierra Hatch of Rockwall, Karlie Self of Sulphur Bluff, Cheyenne Gray of Cumby, Hannah Wright of Omaha, Madison Wynne of Garland and Taylor Gilcrest of Campbell. Seven Texas A&M University-Commerce students were the recipients of scholarships from the Northeast Texas Beef Improvement Organization at its July Cattle Sale in Sulphur Springs, Texas. NETBIO awards these scholarships each year to young students from the Northeast Texas area who are interested in completing their degrees and returning to the area to practice their agriculture-related trades. The scholarship recipients are as follows: • J. D. Norris Scholarship: Taylor Gilcrest (Campbell, Texas) majoring in Animal Science/Pre-Vet •NETBIO Jacobs scholarship: Madison Wynne (Garland, Texas) majoring in Agricultural Science/Education; Hannah Wright (Omaha, Texas) majoring in Animal Science; Cheyenne Gray (Cumby, Texas) majoring in Agricultural Science; Karlie Self (Sulphur Bluff, Texas) majoring in Agriculture Education; and Cierra Hatch (Rockwall, Texas) majoring in Agricultural Science. Also receiving a scholarship but unable to attend the event was Ann-Marie Robinson (Seagoville, Texas) a graduate student earning a degree in Animal Science. Read the Sulphur Springs News-Telegram story. Two A&M-Commerce nursing classes working through their clinicals at Baylor Scott & White Medical Center – Lake Pointe, in Rockwall, Texas, recently received high praise from their host. A&M-Commerce junior nursing students with clinical instructor Crystal Brakefield.A&M-Commerce senior nursing students with clinical instructor Modester Gemas. Vice president of patient care services, Joni Watson, said she’s heard highly-positive feedback about the junior nursing students taught by clinical instructor Crystal Brakefield and the senior nursing students taught by clinical instructor Modester Gemas. “I just want to thank you for letting us serve your students in our hospital,” said Watson. “I have recently heard how helpful your current student cohort has been with patient care.” Watson said the students are always smiling and pleasant. “Your students are serving as strong partners in care,” she continued. “That’s pretty spectacular feedback to hear from my nurse leaders. Thank you for growing our profession and letting us serve them in growth.” Brakefield and her students are grateful for their clinical experience at the hospital. She said clinicals allow nursing students to have real-world experiences caring for actual patients in a hospital setting alongside seasoned medical professionals. “All of the staff have been so helpful and supportive of the students’ learning experiences,” said Brakefield. “They have been so gracious with sharing their knowledge and time to help train our future nurses.” Texas A&M University-Commerce Studio Art graduate student Alexia Mentzel was recently featured in an episode of “Celebrate Hunt County,” a video series that aims to capture everything great about Hunt County. In addition to her studies at A&M-Commerce, Mentzel also teaches at Red Oak High School. Watch her video below. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NJWOrxezuXQ&feature=emb_title Dr. Jim Hamill, head of the Department of Accounting and Finance at Texas A&M University-Commerce, recently announced that accounting student Maxwell Perez has received a $10,000 scholarship from the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (PCAOB). The PCAOB is a non-profit corporation established by Congress to oversee audits of public companies. The PCAOB Scholars Program awards merit-based scholarships to exemplary undergraduate and graduate accounting students. In order to be awarded this scholarship students must have an outstanding academic record and department faculty must advocate heavily for the student. “It’s an honor for Maxwell and for the A&M-Commerce College of Business for one of our students to be selected,” said Hamill. Perez is from Denison, Texas where he graduated eighth in his class. Senior students in the Texas A&M University-Commerce Visual Communications Program hosted their exit showcase “Expressive Minds” in a virtual format starting May 8. In the weeks leading up to the showcase, students posted teaser content to a new Instagram account “ExpressiveMinds2020.” Follow the account @ExpressiveMinds2020 to see the showcase. A&M-Commerce graduate Ashlyn Jones was featured in an article on myparistexas.com for her one-of-a-kind graduation ceremony. Since commencement ceremonies at A&M-Commerce have been postponed, Ashlyn’s husband, Derek Jones, decided to hold a graduation ceremony for his wife in their own back yard. According to the article, he turned the deck into a stage and a ladder into a podium; the karaoke machine served as the sound system, and a printed banner proudly announced graduation 2020 at A&M-Commerce. Four family members attended the ceremony, and Ashlyn walked down the “aisle” to “Pomp and Circumstance” in her high school cap and gown. Ashlyn described the event as “a special moment because Derek worked really hard to make it perfect for me.” “I had to hold back the tears because, honestly, if it weren’t for him I don’t know where I would be. I definitely probably wouldn’t be reaching my dreams of becoming a teacher. I got the degree, but he put in the sacrifices of long work hours, watching the kiddos so I could attend classes, helping me study…,” Ashlyn said. According to Derek, it may not have been the graduation ceremony of Ashlyn’s dreams, but it’s a memory they will never forget. “I am so proud of her,” said Derek. Read the entire myparistexas article. A&M-Commerce graduate student Stephanie Talley has been inducted into Marquis Who’s Who. According to an article about Talley at 24-7pressrelease.com, “Factors such as position, noteworthy accomplishments, visibility, and prominence in a field are all taken into account during the selection process.”Talley holds a Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education from Brigham Young University and is currently pursuing her doctorate in educational psychology at A&M-Commerce. Read the full article. Several Texas A&M University-Commerce students were honored by the Lone Star Conference this month for their work in sports medicine and athletic communications. Each academic year, the LSC recognizes student athletic trainers and athletic communications students who devote several hours to assist with the operation of the athletics department while also finding the time to excel in the classroom. To be eligible for LSC academic honors, these students must carry at least a 3.30 grade point average with a minimum of 24 semester hours at the nominating institution. The qualifications mirror those required of student-athletes to gain LSC All-Academic recognition. The students are: Sports Medicine Katherine Daniels, Sr., Winnsboro, TexasCesar Torres, Sr., Dallas, TexasHyaznarely Ramirez, Sr., Greenville, TexasDejhia Taylor, Jr., McKinney, TexasShelby Gerner, Jr., Whitewright, Texas Athletic Communications Cameron Justice, Sr., Sunnyvale, TexasJun Lee, Grad., Daejeon, South KoreaTyler McDonough, Sr., Horseshoe Bay, TexasAshley Tuppen, Sr., De Kalb, Texas The College of Education and Human Services at A&M-Commerce recently announced the appointment of three new department heads. Laura Isbell, Ph.D.Dimitra Smith, Ph.D.LaVelle Hendricks, Ed.D Dean Kimberly McLeod named Dr. Laura Isbell as head of the Department of Curriculum and Instruction, Dr. Dimitra Smith as head of the Department of Higher Education and Learning Technologies and Dr. LaVelle Hendricks as head of the Department of Counseling. Dr. Kimberly McLeod, dean of the A&M-Commerce College of Education and Human Services, is slated to speak at the upcoming 2021 Texas Women in Higher Education annual conference on March 22-23. The virtual event is themed, “Showcasing Your Professional Portfolio.” Leaders from across The Texas A&M University System will present on the topic of “Leadership Tools and Activities for Developing Your Leadership Skills.” Learn more and register for the event. Dr. Ayal Feinberg, assistant professor of political science at Texas A&M University-Commerce, received a $3,000 grant from the Academic Engagement Network (AEN). The grant comes as part of Feinberg’s appointment as the Junior Faculty Selection Chair of AEN. Feinberg utilizes his position to organize networking events and professional opportunities for scholars that share the missions of AEN. The organization is an independently run nonprofit that seeks to promote campus free expression and academic freedom, support research, education and robust dialogue about Israel, and counter antisemitism. The grant funding will be used to provide innovative on-campus programming including the webinar “Future of Bigotry: Racism & Extremism in America,” which is being hosted by the A&M-Commerce Department of Political Science on February 18. Learn more about AEN and the webinar. Dr. Kimberly McLeod, dean of the College of Education and Human Services at A&M-Commerce, will be keynote speaker at IgNite II: Leading and Learning Through the Pandemic and Beyond, presented by the Fort Worth Area Alliance of Black School Educators. The online event is February 6, from 9:00 am to noon. All proceeds from the $20 registration fee will fund scholarships for the class of 2021. The annual leadership institute provides educators necessary tools to become principals and assistant principals, central office personnel, instructional coaches, head coaches and athletic directors who are able to create viable pathways to success for Black students. Learn more at the event’s registration page. The State Senator for District 13, Borris L. Miles, recently issued a resolution congratulating Dr. Kimberly McLeod on her appointment as dean of the College of Education and Human Services at Texas A&M University-Commerce. McLeod began her role as dean in May 2020. The resolution highlights McLeod’s numerous academic accomplishments and service to the field of higher education. The author of 12 books and 20 peer-reviewed articles, McLeod has raised more than $20 million in government and philanthropic grants. McLeod is one of only 17 individuals recently selected for the fifth cohort of the prestigious Impact Academy Fellowship from Deans for Impact. “Dr. McLeod brings to all her endeavors a wealth of knowledge and experience, and she may indeed reflect with pride on her many impressive achievements as she takes on the challenges and opportunities of her new role,” the resolution states. Learn more about Dean McLeod. Dr. Erin A. Harper, assistant professor in the Department of Psychology and Special Education at A&M-Commerce, is quoted in a recent article from realsimple.com titled “How to Give Back on Martin Luther King Jr. Day.” The article outlines the benefits of volunteerism to physical and mental health, and the community. Harper is a nationally certified school psychologist. Read the article. The Texas State Board of Social Worker Examiners recently elected A&M-Commerce employee, Brian Brumley, to the Texas Behavioral Health Executive Council (BHEC). The council is charged with oversight of Licensed Marriage and Family Therapists, Licensed Professional Counselors, Psychologists and Social Workers in the state. Brumley is a Licensed Master Social Worker and director of field education for the School of Social Work at A&M-Commerce. He is a member of the National Association of Social Workers, Association of Social Boards, Red River Valley Fair Association, and the Council on Social Work Education. Brumley earned his Bachelor of Science in Political Science and Economics from East Texas State University (now A&M-Commerce). He received a Master of Science in Social Work from The University of Texas at Arlington. Learn more about BHEC. The Texas Association for Health, Physical Education, Recreation and Dance (TAHPERD) recently selected Dr. Sandy Kimbrough, professor in the Department of Health and Human Performance at Texas A&M University-Commerce, as president-elect for 2021. The professional group is one of the largest membership-driven organizations in the state of Texas. After her time as president-elect, Kimbrough will join the ranks of several A&M-Commerce faculty who have served as president of the organization. Learn more about TAHPERD. Dr. Eman Hammad, assistant professor in the Department of Computer Science and Information Systems at Texas A&M University-Commerce, received grant funding from the U.S. Department of Defense Air Force Research Laboratory. The grant will fund Hammad’s research project, “Government Secure Voice Architecture.” Hammad is a faculty member in the A&M-Commerce cybersecurity program located at The RELLIS Campus in Bryan, Texas. Texas Governor Greg Abbott recently appointed Brian Brumley, an employee and alum of Texas A&M University-Commerce, as chair of the Texas State Board of Social Worker Examiners. Brumley has served on the board—which regulates the practice of social work in Texas—since 2016. Brumley is a Licensed Master Social Worker and director of field education for the School of Social Work at A&M-Commerce. He is a member of the National Association of Social Workers, Association of Social Boards, Red River Valley Fair Association, and the Council on Social Work Education. Brumley earned his Bachelor of Science in Political Science and Economics from East Texas State University (now A&M-Commerce). He received a Master of Science in Social Work from The University of Texas at Arlington. The American Association of Hispanics in Higher Education (AAHHE) selected Dr. Sarah Rodriguez to receive the 2021 AAHHE Early Career Award. The award recognizes faculty and staff members who demonstrate commitment and promise in their scholarship and service to the Latinx higher education community. Rodriguez is an associate professor in the Department of Higher Education and Learning Technologies at Texas A&M University-Commerce. The award will be presented virtually at the 2021 AAHHE National Conference on Thursday, March 4. Dr. Gil Naizer, professor in the Department of Curriculum and Instruction at Texas A&M University-Commerce, received the George G. Mallinson Distinguished Service Award, presented by the School Science and Mathematics Association (SSMA). The award recognizes notable service to the organization, including substantial participation and leadership in SSMA activities such as paper presentations, committee and membership work, and reviewing for the organization’s journal. Nominations come from current SSMA members. Awardees receive a one-year SSMA membership and are invited to address the membership at the organization’s annual conference. Learn more about the SSMA. Five faculty members from the College of Humanities, Social Sciences and Arts at A&M-Commerce were awarded Global Human Rights fellowships. These awards are meant to sponsor the research of faculty members whose subject areas engage with global human rights, and supports the college’s Global Human Rights Initiative, a concerted effort to incorporate themes involving global human rights and social justice questions into research and classroom content. The awarded faculty are: Jeffrey Baker, Associate Professor of Music—Research: “Sinfonia Migrante: Musician Networks Forged Through Migration Ayal Feinberg, Assistant Professor of Political Science—Research: “Hate Beyond the State: Hate Crimes and Minority Insecurity Ashanka Kumari, Assistant Professor of English—Research: “Let’s Not Forget the Next Wave of Leaders: Mentoring Graduate Students, Supporting Global Human Rights Emily Newman, Associate Professor of Liberal Studies—Research: “Burn Your Bras: Feminist Fashion and Art in United States Protests Ozum Yesiltas, Assistant Professor of Political Science—Research: “Orientalism Interrupted: A Critical Examination of Media Representations of Kurdish Female Fighters in the US Dr. Nate Templeton, associate professor in the Department of Educational Leadership at A&M-Commerce, has been selected as the 2020 Texas Council of Professors of Educational Administration (TCPEA) Researcher of the Year based on his contributions to the field of educational research and inquiry. Templeton said he’s grateful for the support of peers within his department and from Dr. Kimberly McLeod, dean of the College of Education and Human Services. He expressed great appreciation for TCPEA’s recognition of his work’s positive impact. “I am deeply honored to be selected by my peers as the recipient for this prestigious award,” Templeton said. “I am also excited that my research continues to contribute to the body of knowledge in the field of educational administration and, more specifically, toward building administrative capacity for improving teaching and learning practices which forge the narrowing of achievement gaps for marginalized student populations.” Dr. Maia Lamarque, professor in the Texas A&M University-Commerce Department of Literature and Languages, recently published a new book, “Fairy Tales and its Adaptations in Spanish,” which focuses on how fairy tale analysis is the paradigm of globalization. Lamarque posits that fairy tales are the emblem of the human condition, global awareness, and offer a picture and understanding of how the world is shaped by ideas and a variety of performances. This is the second book written by Lamarque in the last year. She also released “Cinderella in Spain: Variations of the Story as Socio-Ethical Texts” in 2019. Adam Metts, a staff member with the A&M-Commerce Counseling Center, was recently appointed to the Unemployment Transition Program for COVID-19 Job Loss, which has been implemented by “Because I said I would,” a social movement and 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to the betterment of humanity through promises made and kept. The organization was founded by Alex Sheen, who appeared at A&M-Commerce as a featured speaker in 2019. Metts currently serves as assistant director of training and supervision at the Counseling Center. For more information, visit the organization’s website. Dr. Teresa Farler, assistant professor of educational leadership at A&M-Commerce, recently secured additional funding for the university’s partnership with Region 10 Educational Service Center. Dr. Pam Winn, head of the Department of Educational Leadership at A&M-Commerce, reports corporate sponsorships for the three-year agreement now total $45,000. The partnership will develop 15 to 20 aspiring superintendents in the Dallas-Fort Worth area. “As their positive experience with A&M-Commerce increases our presence in the area, our recruiting efforts will become more fruitful,” Winn said. “This is an amazing win for the College of Education and Human Services and for the university.” Learn more about Region 10 ESC. Dr. Mylynka Cardona, assistant professor of history at A&M-Commerce, was recently featured in an episode of “This Week in Texas History,” where she discussed what it is like teaching Texas history and some interesting historical figures from her research. “This Week” is produced by Save Texas History, an organization run by the state of Texas that seeks to rally public support and private funding for the preservation and promotion of the historic maps and documents housed in the General Land Office Archives. See the episode. Dr. Jose Lopez, associate professor of agribusiness at Texas A&M University-Commerce, recently received a grant totaling $400,435 from the United States Department of Agriculture’s National Institute of Food and Agriculture. The grant will fund Lopez’ research project, titled “Texas Farm Business Management and Benchmarking Education and Outreach Alliance,” which proposes an interdisciplinary and multi-institutional alliance among A&M-Commerce, West Texas A&M University and regional Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service agencies. This partnership seeks to support the intellectual and collaborative efforts of regional farm institutions by supporting Texas farm management producers to solve agricultural and educational challenges. If you are an Agricultural Producer and would like to learn more about what this project may do for you, please submit your contact information in this form. Read more on the USDA website. Texas A&M University-Commerce Professor Dr. Maia Lamarque was crowned champion of the A&M-Commerce Intramural Tennis Tournament on Oct. 22. Lamarque, who teaches in the Department of Literature and Languages, won in straight sets against Kinesiology student Hyaznarely Ramirez. Lamarque stated that the tournament was a great opportunity to engage with students and the university community. A&M-Commerce alumna Tiffany Ricks was recognized by Our Community Now (OCN) as one of 10 Inspiring Female Founders in Dallas-Fort Worth. According to OCN, Ricks has been recognized for her contributions to software engineering as a 2021 Innovator in Cybersecurity finalist by D CEO and Dallas Innovates, 2020 Top 50 Innovator by Dallas Innovates, and Top Woman in Technology by the National Society of Black Engineers (NSBE).Ricks is the founder and CEO of HacWare, a phishing-simulation technology that protects organizations against data breaches. Ricks received her Bachelor of Science in computer science at Texas Christian University and Master of Science in management from A&M-Commerce. Read the full article. Texas Governor Greg Abbott recently appointed A&M-Commerce alumna Jodie Elder, Ph.D., to the Texas State Board of Examiners of Marriage and Family Therapists for a term set to expire in 2027. The board licenses and regulates Marriage and Family Therapists in Texas. The appointment is subject to Senate confirmation. Elder is a member of the Texas Counseling Association, Texas Association of Marriage and Family Counselors, American Counseling Association, Relational Therapists of Dallas, and the International Association of Marriage and Family Therapists. She earned her Doctor of Philosophy in Counselor Education and Supervision from A&M-Commerce. She is now an adjunct professor of counseling at Southern Methodist University. She is a Licensed Professional Counselor supervisor and a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, as well as a speaker and presenter. Photo credit: Southern Methodist University A recent article in the The Oklahoman announced that A&M-Commerce alumna Dr. Charlotte Simmons has been named provost and vice president for Academic Affairs at the University of Central Oklahoma. Previously, Simmons served as the co-interim vice president for Academic Affairs. Simmons holds bachelor’s degrees in English and mathematics from A&M-Commerce, where she is a distinguished alumna. She also earned a master’s degree in mathematics from the University of North Texas and a doctorate in mathematics from the University of Oklahoma. Read The Oklahoman article. Photo credit: University of Central Oklahoma A Cleburne Times Review article announced that Kimberly D. Mathis, author and A&M-Commerce alumna, was a featured presenter at a virtual Martin Luther King Jr. program at East Cleburne Community Center in Cleburne, Texas. Mathis discussed her book, “Dope Girl,” the story of a mother’s addiction and struggles. In addition to writing, Mathis owns a Wings-To-Go franchise as well as The Tax Lady, an income tax preparation service. As wife of former NFL defensive back Kevin Mathis, she also serves as vice president of the Kevin Mathis Foundation, a nonprofit charity focused on youth empowerment, building strong communities and supporting families affected by drug addiction. Mathis graduated from A&M-Commerce with a degree in business. The Cleburne MLK program is available to view on ECCC’s Facebook page. Read the Cleburne Times Review article. Texas Governor Greg Abbott recently appointed A&M-Commerce alumna, Sanjeeta Singg, Ph.D., to the Texas State Board of Examiners of Psychologists for a term set to expire in 2025. The board regulates the practice of psychology in the state of Texas. Singg is a past president of the Psychological Association of Greater West Texas and served as president on the board of the American Heart Association, Tom Green Division. She is an avid researcher with 45 publications and more than 120 presentations. Singg earned her master’s and doctorate degrees in psychology from A&M-Commerce. She is now a professor of psychology at Angelo State University and director of the graduate level counseling psychology program. Photo credit: Angelo State University Texas A&M University-Commerce alum Ben Scholz was recently named a recipient of the Pioneer Award from Texas Farm Bureau. Scholz received the award along with 13 others across the state for their contributions to agriculture and the organization, through service and leadership. Scholz graduated from East Texas State University in 1969 with a bachelor’s degree in agricultural sciences, and currently serves as president of the National Association of Wheat Growers. He also previously served as president of the Collin County Farm Bureau and several other high-ranking positions in the agriculture and food industry. North Garland High School head coach Joe Castillo was recognized in a recent Garland ISD newsletter as a local leader who is raising awareness for Latinos seeking leadership roles. Castillo serves as vice-president of the Hispanic TXHSFB Coaches Association, which works to provide opportunities for Hispanic coaches. Castillo is one of three Garland ISD head coaches involved in the organization, including Naaman Forest High School head coach Jesse Perales and South Garland High School head coach Damaso Martinez. “It’s awesome to be able to mentor younger coaches and help them become more qualified and prepared,” Castillo says. “We are able to give them examples of what we had to go through, and it gives them the opportunity to ask questions and build leadership skills.” Castillo made history when he became the first Hispanic head coach and campus athletic director at GISD. He is an inspiration and leader in his community. Castillo received his Master of Science and Bachelor of Science degrees from A&M-Commerce. Read the full story on the Garland ISD web page. The Science Teachers Association of Texas (STAT) recently named Cheyenne Hunter as its Rookie Science Teacher of the Year. Hunter earned her bachelor’s degree from Texas A&M University-Commerce, specializing in mathematics and science. Hunter teaches sixth-grade science at O. Henry Elementary School in Richardson, Texas. In her first year at the school, she hosted the campus science fair. Her peers describe Hunter as diverse and inclusive, reporting that she strives to make every student feel like a distinguished scientist. She inspires students to be curious and encourages them to ask questions about science in everyday life. Hunter plans to pursue her master’s degree in spring 2021. View the announcement at the STAT website. WLUC-TV in Michigan featured a story about A&M-Commerce alum Kia Jane Richmond, Ph.D. Richmond is an English professor at Northern Michigan University who has been selected as the faculty speaker for NMU’s virtual commencement ceremonies on December 6. According to the WLUC-TV article, Richmond practices “care before content” in her classrooms. In 2019, she published “Mental Illness in Young Adult Literature: Exploring Real Struggles through Fictional Characters”. This year, Richmond is celebrating 20 years as an NMU faculty member. Richmond earned a master’s degree in English composition and rhetoric from Texas A&M University-Commerce and a doctorate from Illinois State University. Read the WLUC-TV article. A&M-Commerce alum Michael Glas was named deputy CEO of Carevide on October 1, 2020. According to an article at EGreenvilleExtra.com, Glas has worked with Carevide for more than eight years in employee and consulting roles. Glas graduated from A&M-Commerce in 2007 with a Bachelor of Science degree and in 2010 with an MBA. Carevide is a local non-profit health center serving Northeast Texas. Read the EGreenvillelExtra article. Local author Jim Ainsworth recently published a new book, “His Way.” The novel is set in a small Texas town that is shrouded in mystery. A book launch celebration is planned at Mugs on the Square in Commerce, Texas, on December 3, 2020, from 4 to 6 p.m. Ainsworth received his B.B.A. from East Texas State University (now A&M-Commerce). He is a Distinguished Alumnus and Gold Blazer recipient. Ainsworth has published nine novels. For more information on his newest book, visit the author’s website. A&M-Commerce alum Codie Hedge was recently promoted to president of Graham Savings and Loan SSB, a bank in Graham, Texas. In his new role, he will oversee management and lending operations. Hedge is a Graham Chamber of Commerce ambassador and has completed multiple training programs from banking associations in Texas. Hedge obtained his bachelor’s degree in business management from A&M-Commerce and has worked at Graham Savings and Loan since 2011. He served as vice president of Graham Savings and Loan SSB prior to his promotion. Read the full story. Texas A&M University-Commerce alum Erin “Amanda” Bowdoin was recently appointed to the Rehabilitation Council of Texas by Governor Greg Abbott, along with three others. The Rehabilitation Council works under the Texas Workforce Commission to advocate for Texans with disabilities in the vocational rehabilitation process. Bowdoin graduated from A&M-Commerce with a Bachelor of Arts in Elementary Education. Bowdoin and the other appointees, Emily Robinson, Roderick Robinson and Lindsey Geeslin, will serve their terms until October 29, 2023. Melva Henderson, a graduate of Texas A&M University-Commerce, was recently appointed by Texas Governor Greg Abbott to the State Independent Living Council. The council, founded in 1989, is tasked with partnering, developing and monitoring a comprehensive state plan that develops goals and funding for independent living services in Texas. Other roles of the Texas State Independent Living Council are systems advocacy and public education on disability-related topics. Henderson earned her master’s degree in social work from A&M-Commerce. She and three other appointees will serve on the council until October 24, 2023. A significant number of Texas A&M University-Commerce alumni have been placed in some of the top doctoral programs in the nation. Five recent A&M-Commerce Agribusiness graduates are currently continuing their studies in the field. The recent graduates include: • Artak Meloyan (A&M-Commerce class of 2017) is currently pursuing a Ph.D. at the University of Wisconsin-Madison • Hovhannes Mnatsakanyan (A&M-Commerce class of 2017) is currently pursuing a Ph.D. at the University of California-Davis. • Chelsea Arnold (A&M-Commerce class of 2018) is currently pursuing a Ph.D. at Kansas State University • Armine Poghosyan (A&M-Commerce class of 2018) is currently pursuing a Ph.D. at Virginia Tech University • Samuel Uche (A&M-Commerce class of 2019) is currently pursuing a Ph.D. at Texas Tech University Tatiana Chamorro was recently featured on The Digital Hacker Agency Podcast, a digital marketing podcast. Chamorro graduated from A&M-Commerce in May 2020 with a master’s degree in marketing. The Nicaraguan native described her path to founding Hyvemark, an innovative marketing agency that she launched after her graduation from A&M-Commerce. Chamorro also offered tips for success that include finding your passion and setting intentional goals. Listen to the full feature. Matthew Richardson, a graduate of Texas A&M University-Commerce, has joined the campus Counseling Center as a physician assistant. He is a part of the interdisciplinary team that provides compassionate and caring mental health services to A&M-Commerce students. Richardson began working in this position in September 2020. A recent article at NFL Draft Diamonds reported that Texas A&M University-Commerce alum Mike Onuoha is expected to work out with the Indianapolis Colts. Onuoha was recently released by the Baltimore Ravens. The football standout graduated from A&M-Commerce in 2017 with a Bachelor of Science in General Studies. Dr. Dawn Weatherford recently sat for an interview with All Things Cognitive, a podcast produced by the prestigious Psychonomic Society. She discussed her recently published paper in the Psychonomic Society journal Cognitive Research: Principles and Implications. Her paper, “You shall not pass: how facial variability and feedback affect the detection of low prevalence fake IDs,” discusses the cognitive abilities of security screeners to detect fake IDs. Weatherford earned her doctorate in educational psychology from Texas A&M University-Commerce in 2013. Listen to the interview. Dr. Kisha McDonald, a graduate of Texas A&M University-Commerce, took over a newly-created role with Cedar Hill Independent School District in June. As executive director of school leadership for grades six through twelve, McDonald oversees secondary education at five schools in the Cedar Hill district. McDonald earned her doctorate in supervision, curriculum and instruction from A&M-Commerce. She also holds a bachelor’s degree from Texas A&M University, a master’s degree from Prairie View A&M University and a master’s degree from Texas A&M University-Texarkana. McDonald has 21 years’ experience in the Texas education system as a teacher at four different school districts, an assistant principal and principal. She most recently served as director of social-emotional learning at Mansfield ISD. The A&M-Commerce Department of Physics and Astronomy is the recipient of a National Science Foundation grant intended to fund a summer Research Experience for Undergraduates (REU) for community college students interested in physics and astronomy. The 10-week REU program—which runs from June 6 through August 12—will host six students from community colleges in the mid-south region near Northeast Texas, which borders the neighboring states of Oklahoma, Arkansas and Louisiana. The grant will provide each participant with a $6,000 stipend, housing and travel support to and from Commerce, as well as an observing run at McDonald Observatory in Fort Davis, Texas. Selected participants will work directly with a faculty mentor on a collaborative research project matching the student’s specific interests. Additionally, students will attend several social events and field trips to research and industrial institutions in North and East Texas. Learn more about the summer 2021 physics and astronomy REU. Application deadline is March 31. Dallas Regional Chamber recently published an article that examines how area universities have responded to the COVID-19 pandemic. The article highlights A&M-Commerce, Austin College, Dallas Baptist University, Texas Woman’s University, and the University of North Texas. According to the article, “Texas A&M University-Commerce (TAMUC) was one of the few institutions that didn’t miss a beat, beginning online instruction immediately following the university’s regularly scheduled spring break, largely thanks to the school’s robust catalog of online classes and widespread use of learning management systems in traditional courses.” The article notes that A&M-Commerce has recorded growth in graduate enrollment, partly due to a slower job market. Additionally, the article points out that the pandemic has accelerated innovation in higher education, including online programming. “…TAMUC is nationally recognized for its non-traditional, competency-based education programs, which grant credit for an individual’s prior work experience,” the article states. “Presently, TAMUC offers the program in criminal justice and organizational leadership, but is preparing tracks in health services administration, safety and health, and other fields to respond to emergent workforce needs stemming from COVID-19.” Read the Dallas Regional Chamber article. Faculty at Texas A&M University-Commerce now have free access to a suite of powerful tools thanks to a recent partnership between the university and Oracle Academy. Programs for use include cloud technologies, software, support and professional certification resources. The Oracle Academy touts itself as a platform for “advanc(ing) computing education around the world to increase knowledge, innovation, skills development, and diversity in technology fields.” The partnership is similar to the university’s inclusion in the SAP University Alliance, which allows A&M-Commerce faculty to embed appropriate SAP transactions within selected courses. As of the end of Fall 2020, A&M-Commerce had awarded 11 SAP UA Student Recognition Awards to students for completing three or more courses, and has 511 students who have taken at least one SAP course. A recent graduate went so far as to receive certification as an SAP application developer. Interested faculty can learn more about Oracle Academy and sign up for free at the academy website. The Center for Business Excellence at A&M-Commerce is available to provide organizations with customized business training programs and consulting services. Visit the Center for Excellence web page to learn more about the services they provide. View the Center for Excellence promotional video. The A&M-Commerce Sport and Recreation Management program recently released a promotional video touting the purpose and benefit of its undergraduate degree offering. “A lot of times, if we’re doing our job correctly in sport and recreation, you never see us,” said Dr. Clay Bolton, assistant professor in the Department of Health and Human Performance. “We’re not the athletes, we’re not the coaches. In a lot of cases, we’re not even the owners. We’re all the people in between those.” Assistant Professor Samantha Roberts states in the video, “The undergraduate Sport and [Recreation] Management program gives you the opportunity to experience professional sport, but also campus recreation, athletics here on campus, city parks and [recreation], and really opens your eyes to the plethora of opportunities that are available to you in the sport industry more broadly.” Watch the video. In 2020, Texas A&M University-Commerce received approval from the Texas A&M University System and the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board to begin offering a Bachelor of Science in Sustainable Agriculture and Food Systems. This makes A&M-Commerce only the second university in the state of Texas to offer an undergraduate degree in sustainable agriculture. The degree affords students an opportunity to work hands-on in a variety of settings discovering the processes that keep our food systems running smoothly, and work with people, plants and animals to improve our planet and feed a growing world. The curriculum for this 120-hour program is varied, with students taking courses in natural resources management, animal science, urban agriculture and agricultural economics, among others. Dr. Bob Williams, professor of agriculture, food and family at A&M-Commerce, stated that programs like these benefit us all in the future. “We have finite natural resources, and food insecurity is a worldwide issue,” Williams said. “This program aims to give students the tools to address these issues while at the same time leaving the planet in good shape for future generations.” The program has already seen interest, with 34 students enrolled in the Introduction to Sustainable Agriculture course during fall 2020. “I hope that this program will be attractive to not just traditional ag students but those interested in gardening, self-sufficiency and a wide range of topics,” Williams said. To learn more about the B.S. in Sustainable Agriculture and Food Systems, visit the program webpage. In a recent ranking from GreatBusinessSchools.org, the B.S. in Technology Management at Texas A&M University-Commerce was named one of the most affordable degrees in engineering management in the nation. A&M-Commerce’s program, which integrates technology, applied engineering, project management, and leadership, was ranked the third-most affordable. GreatBusinessSchools.com is an independent, third-party site that ranks schools and provides detailed information about institutions of higher education. See the ranking and learn more about our Technology Management program. The Meadows Principal Leadership Institute presented the Meadows Law Conference on October 28 at the McKinney ISD Community Event Center. Dr. Nathan Templeton, associate professor in the Department of Educational Leadership at A&M-Commerce, serves as director of the institute. The Meadows Principal Improvement Program offers a series of professional development opportunities for professional educators in Northeast Texas. More than 100 administrators from campuses and districts across Northeast Texas attended the conference. Sponsored by a grant from the Meadows Foundation, the conference addressed special education issues and changing 504 laws. Renowned legal scholar Jim Walsh facilitated the conference, which focused on creating developmental opportunities for school administrators and policymakers. Attendees also learned methods of improving their campus’s ability to provide special education services. “This was an incredibly successful event that keeps our practitioners abreast of changing laws and policies regarding educating our children with special needs,” Templeton said. The Mexia High School Class of 1959 presented $45,000 to Texas A&M University-Commerce in June 2019 to establish an endowed scholarship fund. This fall, the new scholarship will be available to a deserving A&M-Commerce student for the first time. The scholarship is open to Mexia High School graduates of any age who are pursuing an undergraduate or graduate degree at A&M-Commerce. The scholarship recipient must be a sophomore or above, and students who are enrolled at A&M-Commerce at Navarro College will receive priority consideration. The Mexia High School Class of 1959 has a history of giving. For decades, the class members have enjoyed a close bond as they work together to provide educational opportunities to Mexia graduates. In 2019, the class was gifted a portion of the Ina Cooper estate. With this gift, the group agreed to establish the Mexia High School Class of 1959 Scholarship at A&M-Commerce. April Carl, director of development for Institutional Advancement at A&M-Commerce, expressed gratitude on behalf of the university. “We are honored to be a part of the legacy created by the Mexia Class of 1959 and truly appreciate their generosity in giving so others may succeed,” Carl said. The scholarship application deadline is November 1, 2020, and full scholarship details are available at https://tamu-commerce.academicworks.com. The Planetarium at Texas A&M University-Commerce is reopening with new seats and a few new requirements. Reservations are now available for shows beginning November 13 and running through December 18. Seating is limited. The feature presentation will be Mystery of the Christmas Star. Shows will start at 7 p.m. Reservations are required in order to practice safe distancing. All visitors, regardless of age, are required to wear a face covering for the duration of their visit. Tickets are $5 per person, payable at the facility. Reservations can be made by calling 903.468.8650. Learn more about the A&M-Commerce Planetarium. The Office of Latinx Engagement and Outreach (LEO) at A&M-Commerce is facilitating the creation of a Latino Staff and Faculty Association at the university. This first-of-its-kind group for the campus’ Latino population was established to provide representation of diverse staff and faculty at key decision and stakeholder opportunities, empower Latino/Hispanic professionals, assist the university in becoming a federally recognized Hispanic Serving Institution, and aid the university with its diversity, equity and inclusion goals. This group has been a long time coming, with talks beginning almost eight years ago. Association founders shared that more than 50 interested university members attended the first official meeting on October 8. The association anticipates monthly meetings to begin in November, and interested parties can contact them at [email protected] After a deadly amoeba was discovered in the water supply of Lake Jackson in Brazoria County, Texas, A&M-Commerce is joining with other universities in the A&M System to help improve the water quality in Texas. Texas A&M AgriLife is creating a network across Texas to improve water programs in communities throughout the state. A&M-Commerce will assist with scientific investigations as well as educational outreach. Read the full story. “What Truth Sounds Like,” a recent online symposium hosted by the College of Education and Human Services at A&M-Commerce, addressed systemic racism, trauma in the Black American community and the call for equity. Professor Donna Ford of Ohio State University was a keynote speaker at the event. Her address was quoted in a recent article in The Dallas Examiner. “We are living in more than one pandemic. So we have COVID-19 but I want to claim the other pandemic. The other pandemic is racism from 1619 to the present,” Ford said. In her speech, Ford discussed a white monopoly in the education system and called for more diversity in education. Several locations on the campus of Texas A&M University-Commerce will be lit up in an array of colors in recognition of National Coming Out Day on Oct. 11 in support of the university’s LGBTQ community. National Coming Out Day has been recognized in the United States since 1988 and is aimed at bringing awareness to important LGBTQ issues. The Department of Victim’s Advocacy and Support at Texas A&M University-Commerce is encouraging the university community to wear purple on Oct. 14 to raise awareness of Domestic Violence. October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month in America, and the community is invited to swap out their blue and gold attire on this upcoming Blue and Gold Wednesday for purple as a symbol of survivors and those who lost their lives due to domestic violence. In addition, select locations on campus will be lit up purple for the occasion. People are asked to share their purple looks on Facebook on Oct. 14 and tag @TAMUCAdvocacy in their photos. The Department of Nursing at Texas A&M University-Commerce recently received a grant totaling $98,960 from the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board (THECB) Nursing Shortage Reduction Program. The program provides grants to professional nursing programs at public and private higher education institutions in order to combat nursing shortages and meet the need for registered nurses in the state of Texas. The university was selected for the award based on enrollment and graduation numbers in the undergraduate nursing program over a two-year period, as reported to THECB by the registrar’s office. The Texas A&M University-Commerce College of Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources was awarded $50,400 by the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo to fund four graduate assistant positions within the college. This continues a long-standing partnership between HLSR and A&M-Commerce, with the organization donating more than $450,000 in scholarships to A&M-Commerce agricultural students to date. The recent funding from HLSR marks an increase in their commitment to agricultural education, as the amount was increased by $12,600 this year in order to add another GA position. The four graduate students that will benefit from this funding are Kaylee Kipp, Shannon Park, Sofia Martinez and Courtney Baldwin. The Department of Biological and Environmental Sciences at Texas A&M University-Commerce received grant funding as part of the university’s ongoing affiliation with the Joint Admission Medical Program (JAMP). JAMP is a partnership between 11 medical schools in Texas and 70 public and private four-year undergraduate institutions. The program provides financial and academic support for qualifying pre-med students, as well as guaranteed admission to a medical school in Texas upon completing all requirements at graduation. Dr. John Slovak, assistant professor in the department reports most funds from the grant will be used to provide tutors in the JAMP room located within the McFarland Science Building at A&M-Commerce. Learn about JAMP. The Department of Nursing at Texas A&M-Commerce is featured in a recent article from the Herald-Banner newspaper in Greenville, Texas, for its efforts to train nursing students amid the challenges of the COVID-19 era. “Since March, so many things have changed, everything from pedagogy to budget,” said A&M-Commerce Department of Nursing Head Denise Neill in the story. “Statewide, the rules have been changing daily, so when we’re just about to get the hang of new procedures, new changes come in.” Left to right: Dr. Monica Tenhunen, Hannah Dixon, Dr. Denise Neill and Camila Brown of the Texas A&M University-Commerce Nursing Department. Photo courtesy of Herald-Banner. Neill said the pandemic has forced faculty to be creative and reconsider how they approach the role of teaching students. “It’s all made us reevaluate re-evaluate what’s essential,” Neill said. Professor Monica Tenhunen agrees. “People are a lot more adaptable than they’re often given credit for,” said Tenhunen. “Innovation isn’t just an academic buzzword. It can mean nursing done a lot better.” Read the full story. A&M-Commerce received approval from the Texas A&M University System and the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board to offer the Master of Public Health degree program with face-to-face instruction or fully-online learning, beginning fall 2020. “The College of Education and Human Services is preparing future leaders today,” said Dr. Kimberly McLeod, dean of the college. “We continue to respond to current and future workforce demands by offering degree programs that prepare our students to contribute professionally to local, state, national and global needs.” Dr. Elizabeth Wachira, director of the public health program at A&M-Commerce, said the new program comes at a pivotal time, considering the dramatic increase in demand for public health professionals amid the COVID-19 pandemic. “The fully-online format is accessible for working professionals,” said Wachira. “Graduates of the program will be equipped with the knowledge and skills necessary to address public health issues from an evidence-based, multidisciplinary approach.” The graduate program is 42 credit hours. 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The A&M-Commerce chapter of the Society of Physics Students (SPS) has been chosen as a Distinguished Chapter for the 2019-2020 academic year. The honor marks the sixth consecutive year the group has received the designation. SPS is an organization of the American Institute of Physics. Officers for the 2019-2020 academic year include Keely Scott, president; Madison Smith, vice president; Flint Morgan, secretary; Allan Teer, historian; and Jaden Hart, treasurer. “We, at the SPS national office, want to take this opportunity to commend and applaud you for your tireless efforts to enrich the SPS community,” said Brad R. Conrad, SPS director. “It is because of your dedication and commitment to the SPS mission and vision that we are able to foster such a strong SPS community.” Learn more about the Society of Physics Students.
Students in the College of Humanities, Social Sciences & Arts at Texas A&M University-Commerce teamed up to create a film that took second place in the Broadcast Education Association’s Film 168 Student Film Competition. The students’ film, “Soda Boy,” finished second out of 10 submissions from universities nationwide. Those who worked on the project include: • Producer and Editor: Ashley Fordinal • Director, Editor and Writer: Molly Chavez • Writer: Paisley Jacques • Crew: Aliyah Sabir and Beamer Murphy • Actors: Daryl Brown and Casey Bass • Faculty Advisor: Dr. Tony DeMars See the film.
Texas A&M University-Commerce doctoral student Pearlie Lubin was recently selected for a fellowship project by the United States Department of State. She will be teaching English in Costa Rica. In a press release, it was announced that Lubin is one of 170 people selected for the 2020-2021 Virtual English Language Fellow Program. Lubin received her graduate certificate as a Teacher of English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL) from A&M-Commerce and is currently pursuing her doctorate in Higher Education with an emphasis in TESOL from A&M-Commerce. As part of the fellowship, she will teach training courses to improve the communicative language ability of in-service teachers and enhance their teaching practices at Instituto Nacional de Aprendizaje (INA). She is also facilitating a virtual English conversation club at INA and enhancement activities at the FundaTec Virtual Access program. Read the official release.
A&M-Commerce student Tabitha Smith was featured in the Texarkana FYI News Hub for her recent recognition as Texarkana Texas Police Department 2020 Officer of the Year. Mother of four and wife to Sgt. Kristopher Smith, Detective Smith is currently pursuing a criminal justice degree at A&M-Commerce. Honored for her esteemed work and long-term service to TTPD, Detective Smith first worked as a patrol officer, member of the Special Investigation Unit, juvenile detective, and now as a detective assigned to handle crimes against persons. According to the News Hub article, Detective Smith has received the Certificate of Merit twice, was recognized as Officer of the Quarter earlier this year, and has earned numerous letters of commendation. Smith is currently assigned to the Investigative Services section where she is a dedicated advocate for victims of sexual assault. In the article, Chief Schutte of TTPD said, “Tabitha is one of the most hard working and dedicated employees of the Texarkana Texas Police Department who is known for her compassion for the victims and their families. She is guided by two principles in her daily work: To find the truth and ensure that the victim’s voice is heard through her investigation. I’m very proud to get to work with her.” Read the full article.
Members of the Texas A&M University-Commerce Fishing Team competed in the Carhartt Bassmaster College Series National Tournament, held in Leesburg, Florida, on Oct. 29. Out of 150 competing teams, the two-person tandem of Lions, Augustus McLarry and Dawson Cassidy, finished 27th. This is the first time A&M-Commerce has been represented in the national tournament since the team was formed in 2017. To qualify, a team must either finish in the top 10 at an officially sanctioned tournament or be ranked in the top 25 nationally, based off of points earned in tournaments. The 16-person team competes in about a dozen tournaments per year.
The Texas A&M University-Commerce Meat Judging Team continued its run of success in 2020 with an overall victory in the first-ever virtual contest held by the American Meat Science Association. All four team members swept the top four individual scores. Madison Wynne, Colleen Hooge, Katherine Bivens and Kris Barr finished first through fourth place, respectively.
A&M-Commerce doctoral student Marquita McCullum was featured in a recent article in the Dallas-based publication, Focus Daily News. The article highlights McCullum’s exemplary leadership during COVID-19 as principal of Lake Ridge Elementary School in Cedar Hill, Texas. In the article, McCullum said collaboration has been key as the school attempts to provide a sense of normalcy to its students throughout the pandemic. “Being a principal during this time is ever-changing,” McCullum said. “We have to be aware of any new information and then communicate that to our parents, scholars and staff.” The article states that McCullum is getting creative in her district with new ways to continue fun and interactive events while incorporating CDC guidelines and maintaining a safe campus. “We are working on creative ways for parental involvement activities, so we can still be connected,” McCullum said, whether that be virtual or socially distanced activities. According to the article, Lake Ridge has worked to assure parents that safety comes first in the district. Faculty and staff training has been administered and procedures are in place to see that the campus remains a safe place. Students are socially distanced in their classrooms, and masks are required at all times, except when eating. Read the full Focus Daily News Article.
Rocio Almanza, a teacher at Mesquite Independent School District, recently received a one-year scholarship from the district toward her doctorate at Texas A&M University-Commerce. Almanza is pursuing a doctorate in curriculum and instruction through the Excellence in Teaching Incentive Program (ETIP), a partnership between A&M-Commerce and Mesquite ISD. ETIP encourages the district’s teachers to pursue master’s and doctorate degrees by offering significant earnings increases for teachers who complete the program and maintain certain quality standards in the classroom. Dr. David Vroonland, superintendent for Mesquite ISD, created the scholarship to inspire participation in the ETIP initiative. The scholarship is awarded annually to a teacher pursuing a doctorate through the program.
Texas A&M University-Commerce honors student Emma Anderson recently completed a sizable art installation at the Commerce Post Office, located at 1300 Park Street. The wood design bears the resemblance of a USA Forever Stamp emblazoned with a Lion, the mascot of A&M-Commerce. The entire project, which was part of Anderson’s honors thesis, took more than a year to complete. Anderson also intends to petition the United States Postal Service to turn her design into a real Forever Stamp. Read the KETR story on this achievement.
A group of A&M-Commerce engineering and physics students recently designed and built a Rube Goldberg machine in the Jimmy and Sherrol Shirley Makerspace on campus, under the direction of A&M-Commerce engineering faculty members Dr. Perry Moler and Patrick Carter. The group included electrical engineering students Caleb Otte, Devin Beamon and Rhiannon Roberts, and physics student Flint Morgan. The students and their machine were featured in a lighthearted video produced by A&M-Commerce alumna Rebekah Grey and distributed by The Texas A&M University System to highlight safety precautions for students during the COVID-19 pandemic. Rube Goldberg was an American cartoonist known for his illustrations depicting devices performing simple tasks in indirect, overly complicated ways. Such devices have gained increased interest thanks to Rube Goldberg competitions and references in pop-culture. View the video.
A&M-Commerce student Omar Ramirez’s research study, “Using Fitbit Competitions to Increase Physical Activity in College Students,” has been accepted for publication in The Macksey Journal. The journal is a collection of articles based on presentations given at the annual Richard Macksey National Undergraduate Research Symposium at Johns Hopkins University. Ramirez’s study found that students who use a Fitbit device and app to compete in weekly competitions logged more steps than students wearing a simple pedometer. The results suggest that adding the social and competitive aspects of a mobile app can be a powerful motivator for college students seeking to increase physical activity. Under guidance from Dr. Vipa Bernhardt in the Department of Health and Human Performance, Ramirez conducted the study as part of the McNair Scholars Program. He graduated in May with a double major in human performance and biological sciences. Ramirez is currently a graduate assistant pursuing his master’s degree in the Health, Kinesiology and Sports Studies program.
Kelli Lahman, a graduate student in the Specialist in School Psychology program at A&M-Commerce, recently received a scholarship from the Miller-DeLange Education Foundation. The foundation provides scholarships for graduate students who are enrolled in programs to become licensed school psychologists, counselors, speech therapists, dyslexia specialists, occupational therapists and physical therapists who intend to work in educational settings upon graduation. Learn more about the Miller-Delange Education Foundation.
(from left) Cierra Hatch of Rockwall, Karlie Self of Sulphur Bluff, Cheyenne Gray of Cumby, Hannah Wright of Omaha, Madison Wynne of Garland and Taylor Gilcrest of Campbell. Seven Texas A&M University-Commerce students were the recipients of scholarships from the Northeast Texas Beef Improvement Organization at its July Cattle Sale in Sulphur Springs, Texas. NETBIO awards these scholarships each year to young students from the Northeast Texas area who are interested in completing their degrees and returning to the area to practice their agriculture-related trades. The scholarship recipients are as follows: • J. D. Norris Scholarship: Taylor Gilcrest (Campbell, Texas) majoring in Animal Science/Pre-Vet •NETBIO Jacobs scholarship: Madison Wynne (Garland, Texas) majoring in Agricultural Science/Education; Hannah Wright (Omaha, Texas) majoring in Animal Science; Cheyenne Gray (Cumby, Texas) majoring in Agricultural Science; Karlie Self (Sulphur Bluff, Texas) majoring in Agriculture Education; and Cierra Hatch (Rockwall, Texas) majoring in Agricultural Science. Also receiving a scholarship but unable to attend the event was Ann-Marie Robinson (Seagoville, Texas) a graduate student earning a degree in Animal Science. Read the Sulphur Springs News-Telegram story.
Two A&M-Commerce nursing classes working through their clinicals at Baylor Scott & White Medical Center – Lake Pointe, in Rockwall, Texas, recently received high praise from their host. A&M-Commerce junior nursing students with clinical instructor Crystal Brakefield.A&M-Commerce senior nursing students with clinical instructor Modester Gemas. Vice president of patient care services, Joni Watson, said she’s heard highly-positive feedback about the junior nursing students taught by clinical instructor Crystal Brakefield and the senior nursing students taught by clinical instructor Modester Gemas. “I just want to thank you for letting us serve your students in our hospital,” said Watson. “I have recently heard how helpful your current student cohort has been with patient care.” Watson said the students are always smiling and pleasant. “Your students are serving as strong partners in care,” she continued. “That’s pretty spectacular feedback to hear from my nurse leaders. Thank you for growing our profession and letting us serve them in growth.” Brakefield and her students are grateful for their clinical experience at the hospital. She said clinicals allow nursing students to have real-world experiences caring for actual patients in a hospital setting alongside seasoned medical professionals. “All of the staff have been so helpful and supportive of the students’ learning experiences,” said Brakefield. “They have been so gracious with sharing their knowledge and time to help train our future nurses.”
Texas A&M University-Commerce Studio Art graduate student Alexia Mentzel was recently featured in an episode of “Celebrate Hunt County,” a video series that aims to capture everything great about Hunt County. In addition to her studies at A&M-Commerce, Mentzel also teaches at Red Oak High School. Watch her video below. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NJWOrxezuXQ&feature=emb_title
Dr. Jim Hamill, head of the Department of Accounting and Finance at Texas A&M University-Commerce, recently announced that accounting student Maxwell Perez has received a $10,000 scholarship from the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (PCAOB). The PCAOB is a non-profit corporation established by Congress to oversee audits of public companies. The PCAOB Scholars Program awards merit-based scholarships to exemplary undergraduate and graduate accounting students. In order to be awarded this scholarship students must have an outstanding academic record and department faculty must advocate heavily for the student. “It’s an honor for Maxwell and for the A&M-Commerce College of Business for one of our students to be selected,” said Hamill. Perez is from Denison, Texas where he graduated eighth in his class.
Senior students in the Texas A&M University-Commerce Visual Communications Program hosted their exit showcase “Expressive Minds” in a virtual format starting May 8. In the weeks leading up to the showcase, students posted teaser content to a new Instagram account “ExpressiveMinds2020.” Follow the account @ExpressiveMinds2020 to see the showcase.
A&M-Commerce graduate Ashlyn Jones was featured in an article on myparistexas.com for her one-of-a-kind graduation ceremony. Since commencement ceremonies at A&M-Commerce have been postponed, Ashlyn’s husband, Derek Jones, decided to hold a graduation ceremony for his wife in their own back yard. According to the article, he turned the deck into a stage and a ladder into a podium; the karaoke machine served as the sound system, and a printed banner proudly announced graduation 2020 at A&M-Commerce. Four family members attended the ceremony, and Ashlyn walked down the “aisle” to “Pomp and Circumstance” in her high school cap and gown. Ashlyn described the event as “a special moment because Derek worked really hard to make it perfect for me.” “I had to hold back the tears because, honestly, if it weren’t for him I don’t know where I would be. I definitely probably wouldn’t be reaching my dreams of becoming a teacher. I got the degree, but he put in the sacrifices of long work hours, watching the kiddos so I could attend classes, helping me study…,” Ashlyn said. According to Derek, it may not have been the graduation ceremony of Ashlyn’s dreams, but it’s a memory they will never forget. “I am so proud of her,” said Derek. Read the entire myparistexas article.
A&M-Commerce graduate student Stephanie Talley has been inducted into Marquis Who’s Who. According to an article about Talley at 24-7pressrelease.com, “Factors such as position, noteworthy accomplishments, visibility, and prominence in a field are all taken into account during the selection process.”Talley holds a Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education from Brigham Young University and is currently pursuing her doctorate in educational psychology at A&M-Commerce. Read the full article.
Several Texas A&M University-Commerce students were honored by the Lone Star Conference this month for their work in sports medicine and athletic communications. Each academic year, the LSC recognizes student athletic trainers and athletic communications students who devote several hours to assist with the operation of the athletics department while also finding the time to excel in the classroom. To be eligible for LSC academic honors, these students must carry at least a 3.30 grade point average with a minimum of 24 semester hours at the nominating institution. The qualifications mirror those required of student-athletes to gain LSC All-Academic recognition. The students are: Sports Medicine Katherine Daniels, Sr., Winnsboro, TexasCesar Torres, Sr., Dallas, TexasHyaznarely Ramirez, Sr., Greenville, TexasDejhia Taylor, Jr., McKinney, TexasShelby Gerner, Jr., Whitewright, Texas Athletic Communications Cameron Justice, Sr., Sunnyvale, TexasJun Lee, Grad., Daejeon, South KoreaTyler McDonough, Sr., Horseshoe Bay, TexasAshley Tuppen, Sr., De Kalb, Texas
The College of Education and Human Services at A&M-Commerce recently announced the appointment of three new department heads. Laura Isbell, Ph.D.Dimitra Smith, Ph.D.LaVelle Hendricks, Ed.D Dean Kimberly McLeod named Dr. Laura Isbell as head of the Department of Curriculum and Instruction, Dr. Dimitra Smith as head of the Department of Higher Education and Learning Technologies and Dr. LaVelle Hendricks as head of the Department of Counseling.
Dr. Kimberly McLeod, dean of the A&M-Commerce College of Education and Human Services, is slated to speak at the upcoming 2021 Texas Women in Higher Education annual conference on March 22-23. The virtual event is themed, “Showcasing Your Professional Portfolio.” Leaders from across The Texas A&M University System will present on the topic of “Leadership Tools and Activities for Developing Your Leadership Skills.” Learn more and register for the event.
Dr. Ayal Feinberg, assistant professor of political science at Texas A&M University-Commerce, received a $3,000 grant from the Academic Engagement Network (AEN). The grant comes as part of Feinberg’s appointment as the Junior Faculty Selection Chair of AEN. Feinberg utilizes his position to organize networking events and professional opportunities for scholars that share the missions of AEN. The organization is an independently run nonprofit that seeks to promote campus free expression and academic freedom, support research, education and robust dialogue about Israel, and counter antisemitism. The grant funding will be used to provide innovative on-campus programming including the webinar “Future of Bigotry: Racism & Extremism in America,” which is being hosted by the A&M-Commerce Department of Political Science on February 18. Learn more about AEN and the webinar.
Dr. Kimberly McLeod, dean of the College of Education and Human Services at A&M-Commerce, will be keynote speaker at IgNite II: Leading and Learning Through the Pandemic and Beyond, presented by the Fort Worth Area Alliance of Black School Educators. The online event is February 6, from 9:00 am to noon. All proceeds from the $20 registration fee will fund scholarships for the class of 2021. The annual leadership institute provides educators necessary tools to become principals and assistant principals, central office personnel, instructional coaches, head coaches and athletic directors who are able to create viable pathways to success for Black students. Learn more at the event’s registration page.
The State Senator for District 13, Borris L. Miles, recently issued a resolution congratulating Dr. Kimberly McLeod on her appointment as dean of the College of Education and Human Services at Texas A&M University-Commerce. McLeod began her role as dean in May 2020. The resolution highlights McLeod’s numerous academic accomplishments and service to the field of higher education. The author of 12 books and 20 peer-reviewed articles, McLeod has raised more than $20 million in government and philanthropic grants. McLeod is one of only 17 individuals recently selected for the fifth cohort of the prestigious Impact Academy Fellowship from Deans for Impact. “Dr. McLeod brings to all her endeavors a wealth of knowledge and experience, and she may indeed reflect with pride on her many impressive achievements as she takes on the challenges and opportunities of her new role,” the resolution states. Learn more about Dean McLeod.
Dr. Erin A. Harper, assistant professor in the Department of Psychology and Special Education at A&M-Commerce, is quoted in a recent article from realsimple.com titled “How to Give Back on Martin Luther King Jr. Day.” The article outlines the benefits of volunteerism to physical and mental health, and the community. Harper is a nationally certified school psychologist. Read the article.
The Texas State Board of Social Worker Examiners recently elected A&M-Commerce employee, Brian Brumley, to the Texas Behavioral Health Executive Council (BHEC). The council is charged with oversight of Licensed Marriage and Family Therapists, Licensed Professional Counselors, Psychologists and Social Workers in the state. Brumley is a Licensed Master Social Worker and director of field education for the School of Social Work at A&M-Commerce. He is a member of the National Association of Social Workers, Association of Social Boards, Red River Valley Fair Association, and the Council on Social Work Education. Brumley earned his Bachelor of Science in Political Science and Economics from East Texas State University (now A&M-Commerce). He received a Master of Science in Social Work from The University of Texas at Arlington. Learn more about BHEC.
The Texas Association for Health, Physical Education, Recreation and Dance (TAHPERD) recently selected Dr. Sandy Kimbrough, professor in the Department of Health and Human Performance at Texas A&M University-Commerce, as president-elect for 2021. The professional group is one of the largest membership-driven organizations in the state of Texas. After her time as president-elect, Kimbrough will join the ranks of several A&M-Commerce faculty who have served as president of the organization. Learn more about TAHPERD.
Dr. Eman Hammad, assistant professor in the Department of Computer Science and Information Systems at Texas A&M University-Commerce, received grant funding from the U.S. Department of Defense Air Force Research Laboratory. The grant will fund Hammad’s research project, “Government Secure Voice Architecture.” Hammad is a faculty member in the A&M-Commerce cybersecurity program located at The RELLIS Campus in Bryan, Texas.
Texas Governor Greg Abbott recently appointed Brian Brumley, an employee and alum of Texas A&M University-Commerce, as chair of the Texas State Board of Social Worker Examiners. Brumley has served on the board—which regulates the practice of social work in Texas—since 2016. Brumley is a Licensed Master Social Worker and director of field education for the School of Social Work at A&M-Commerce. He is a member of the National Association of Social Workers, Association of Social Boards, Red River Valley Fair Association, and the Council on Social Work Education. Brumley earned his Bachelor of Science in Political Science and Economics from East Texas State University (now A&M-Commerce). He received a Master of Science in Social Work from The University of Texas at Arlington.
The American Association of Hispanics in Higher Education (AAHHE) selected Dr. Sarah Rodriguez to receive the 2021 AAHHE Early Career Award. The award recognizes faculty and staff members who demonstrate commitment and promise in their scholarship and service to the Latinx higher education community. Rodriguez is an associate professor in the Department of Higher Education and Learning Technologies at Texas A&M University-Commerce. The award will be presented virtually at the 2021 AAHHE National Conference on Thursday, March 4.
Dr. Gil Naizer, professor in the Department of Curriculum and Instruction at Texas A&M University-Commerce, received the George G. Mallinson Distinguished Service Award, presented by the School Science and Mathematics Association (SSMA). The award recognizes notable service to the organization, including substantial participation and leadership in SSMA activities such as paper presentations, committee and membership work, and reviewing for the organization’s journal. Nominations come from current SSMA members. Awardees receive a one-year SSMA membership and are invited to address the membership at the organization’s annual conference. Learn more about the SSMA.
Five faculty members from the College of Humanities, Social Sciences and Arts at A&M-Commerce were awarded Global Human Rights fellowships. These awards are meant to sponsor the research of faculty members whose subject areas engage with global human rights, and supports the college’s Global Human Rights Initiative, a concerted effort to incorporate themes involving global human rights and social justice questions into research and classroom content. The awarded faculty are: Jeffrey Baker, Associate Professor of Music—Research: “Sinfonia Migrante: Musician Networks Forged Through Migration Ayal Feinberg, Assistant Professor of Political Science—Research: “Hate Beyond the State: Hate Crimes and Minority Insecurity Ashanka Kumari, Assistant Professor of English—Research: “Let’s Not Forget the Next Wave of Leaders: Mentoring Graduate Students, Supporting Global Human Rights Emily Newman, Associate Professor of Liberal Studies—Research: “Burn Your Bras: Feminist Fashion and Art in United States Protests Ozum Yesiltas, Assistant Professor of Political Science—Research: “Orientalism Interrupted: A Critical Examination of Media Representations of Kurdish Female Fighters in the US
Dr. Nate Templeton, associate professor in the Department of Educational Leadership at A&M-Commerce, has been selected as the 2020 Texas Council of Professors of Educational Administration (TCPEA) Researcher of the Year based on his contributions to the field of educational research and inquiry. Templeton said he’s grateful for the support of peers within his department and from Dr. Kimberly McLeod, dean of the College of Education and Human Services. He expressed great appreciation for TCPEA’s recognition of his work’s positive impact. “I am deeply honored to be selected by my peers as the recipient for this prestigious award,” Templeton said. “I am also excited that my research continues to contribute to the body of knowledge in the field of educational administration and, more specifically, toward building administrative capacity for improving teaching and learning practices which forge the narrowing of achievement gaps for marginalized student populations.”
Dr. Maia Lamarque, professor in the Texas A&M University-Commerce Department of Literature and Languages, recently published a new book, “Fairy Tales and its Adaptations in Spanish,” which focuses on how fairy tale analysis is the paradigm of globalization. Lamarque posits that fairy tales are the emblem of the human condition, global awareness, and offer a picture and understanding of how the world is shaped by ideas and a variety of performances. This is the second book written by Lamarque in the last year. She also released “Cinderella in Spain: Variations of the Story as Socio-Ethical Texts” in 2019.
Adam Metts, a staff member with the A&M-Commerce Counseling Center, was recently appointed to the Unemployment Transition Program for COVID-19 Job Loss, which has been implemented by “Because I said I would,” a social movement and 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to the betterment of humanity through promises made and kept. The organization was founded by Alex Sheen, who appeared at A&M-Commerce as a featured speaker in 2019. Metts currently serves as assistant director of training and supervision at the Counseling Center. For more information, visit the organization’s website.
Dr. Teresa Farler, assistant professor of educational leadership at A&M-Commerce, recently secured additional funding for the university’s partnership with Region 10 Educational Service Center. Dr. Pam Winn, head of the Department of Educational Leadership at A&M-Commerce, reports corporate sponsorships for the three-year agreement now total $45,000. The partnership will develop 15 to 20 aspiring superintendents in the Dallas-Fort Worth area. “As their positive experience with A&M-Commerce increases our presence in the area, our recruiting efforts will become more fruitful,” Winn said. “This is an amazing win for the College of Education and Human Services and for the university.” Learn more about Region 10 ESC.
Dr. Mylynka Cardona, assistant professor of history at A&M-Commerce, was recently featured in an episode of “This Week in Texas History,” where she discussed what it is like teaching Texas history and some interesting historical figures from her research. “This Week” is produced by Save Texas History, an organization run by the state of Texas that seeks to rally public support and private funding for the preservation and promotion of the historic maps and documents housed in the General Land Office Archives. See the episode.
Dr. Jose Lopez, associate professor of agribusiness at Texas A&M University-Commerce, recently received a grant totaling $400,435 from the United States Department of Agriculture’s National Institute of Food and Agriculture. The grant will fund Lopez’ research project, titled “Texas Farm Business Management and Benchmarking Education and Outreach Alliance,” which proposes an interdisciplinary and multi-institutional alliance among A&M-Commerce, West Texas A&M University and regional Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service agencies. This partnership seeks to support the intellectual and collaborative efforts of regional farm institutions by supporting Texas farm management producers to solve agricultural and educational challenges. If you are an Agricultural Producer and would like to learn more about what this project may do for you, please submit your contact information in this form. Read more on the USDA website.
Texas A&M University-Commerce Professor Dr. Maia Lamarque was crowned champion of the A&M-Commerce Intramural Tennis Tournament on Oct. 22. Lamarque, who teaches in the Department of Literature and Languages, won in straight sets against Kinesiology student Hyaznarely Ramirez. Lamarque stated that the tournament was a great opportunity to engage with students and the university community.
A&M-Commerce alumna Tiffany Ricks was recognized by Our Community Now (OCN) as one of 10 Inspiring Female Founders in Dallas-Fort Worth. According to OCN, Ricks has been recognized for her contributions to software engineering as a 2021 Innovator in Cybersecurity finalist by D CEO and Dallas Innovates, 2020 Top 50 Innovator by Dallas Innovates, and Top Woman in Technology by the National Society of Black Engineers (NSBE).Ricks is the founder and CEO of HacWare, a phishing-simulation technology that protects organizations against data breaches. Ricks received her Bachelor of Science in computer science at Texas Christian University and Master of Science in management from A&M-Commerce. Read the full article.
Texas Governor Greg Abbott recently appointed A&M-Commerce alumna Jodie Elder, Ph.D., to the Texas State Board of Examiners of Marriage and Family Therapists for a term set to expire in 2027. The board licenses and regulates Marriage and Family Therapists in Texas. The appointment is subject to Senate confirmation. Elder is a member of the Texas Counseling Association, Texas Association of Marriage and Family Counselors, American Counseling Association, Relational Therapists of Dallas, and the International Association of Marriage and Family Therapists. She earned her Doctor of Philosophy in Counselor Education and Supervision from A&M-Commerce. She is now an adjunct professor of counseling at Southern Methodist University. She is a Licensed Professional Counselor supervisor and a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, as well as a speaker and presenter. Photo credit: Southern Methodist University
A recent article in the The Oklahoman announced that A&M-Commerce alumna Dr. Charlotte Simmons has been named provost and vice president for Academic Affairs at the University of Central Oklahoma. Previously, Simmons served as the co-interim vice president for Academic Affairs. Simmons holds bachelor’s degrees in English and mathematics from A&M-Commerce, where she is a distinguished alumna. She also earned a master’s degree in mathematics from the University of North Texas and a doctorate in mathematics from the University of Oklahoma. Read The Oklahoman article. Photo credit: University of Central Oklahoma
A Cleburne Times Review article announced that Kimberly D. Mathis, author and A&M-Commerce alumna, was a featured presenter at a virtual Martin Luther King Jr. program at East Cleburne Community Center in Cleburne, Texas. Mathis discussed her book, “Dope Girl,” the story of a mother’s addiction and struggles. In addition to writing, Mathis owns a Wings-To-Go franchise as well as The Tax Lady, an income tax preparation service. As wife of former NFL defensive back Kevin Mathis, she also serves as vice president of the Kevin Mathis Foundation, a nonprofit charity focused on youth empowerment, building strong communities and supporting families affected by drug addiction. Mathis graduated from A&M-Commerce with a degree in business. The Cleburne MLK program is available to view on ECCC’s Facebook page. Read the Cleburne Times Review article.
Texas Governor Greg Abbott recently appointed A&M-Commerce alumna, Sanjeeta Singg, Ph.D., to the Texas State Board of Examiners of Psychologists for a term set to expire in 2025. The board regulates the practice of psychology in the state of Texas. Singg is a past president of the Psychological Association of Greater West Texas and served as president on the board of the American Heart Association, Tom Green Division. She is an avid researcher with 45 publications and more than 120 presentations. Singg earned her master’s and doctorate degrees in psychology from A&M-Commerce. She is now a professor of psychology at Angelo State University and director of the graduate level counseling psychology program. Photo credit: Angelo State University
Texas A&M University-Commerce alum Ben Scholz was recently named a recipient of the Pioneer Award from Texas Farm Bureau. Scholz received the award along with 13 others across the state for their contributions to agriculture and the organization, through service and leadership. Scholz graduated from East Texas State University in 1969 with a bachelor’s degree in agricultural sciences, and currently serves as president of the National Association of Wheat Growers. He also previously served as president of the Collin County Farm Bureau and several other high-ranking positions in the agriculture and food industry.
North Garland High School head coach Joe Castillo was recognized in a recent Garland ISD newsletter as a local leader who is raising awareness for Latinos seeking leadership roles. Castillo serves as vice-president of the Hispanic TXHSFB Coaches Association, which works to provide opportunities for Hispanic coaches. Castillo is one of three Garland ISD head coaches involved in the organization, including Naaman Forest High School head coach Jesse Perales and South Garland High School head coach Damaso Martinez. “It’s awesome to be able to mentor younger coaches and help them become more qualified and prepared,” Castillo says. “We are able to give them examples of what we had to go through, and it gives them the opportunity to ask questions and build leadership skills.” Castillo made history when he became the first Hispanic head coach and campus athletic director at GISD. He is an inspiration and leader in his community. Castillo received his Master of Science and Bachelor of Science degrees from A&M-Commerce. Read the full story on the Garland ISD web page.
The Science Teachers Association of Texas (STAT) recently named Cheyenne Hunter as its Rookie Science Teacher of the Year. Hunter earned her bachelor’s degree from Texas A&M University-Commerce, specializing in mathematics and science. Hunter teaches sixth-grade science at O. Henry Elementary School in Richardson, Texas. In her first year at the school, she hosted the campus science fair. Her peers describe Hunter as diverse and inclusive, reporting that she strives to make every student feel like a distinguished scientist. She inspires students to be curious and encourages them to ask questions about science in everyday life. Hunter plans to pursue her master’s degree in spring 2021. View the announcement at the STAT website.
WLUC-TV in Michigan featured a story about A&M-Commerce alum Kia Jane Richmond, Ph.D. Richmond is an English professor at Northern Michigan University who has been selected as the faculty speaker for NMU’s virtual commencement ceremonies on December 6. According to the WLUC-TV article, Richmond practices “care before content” in her classrooms. In 2019, she published “Mental Illness in Young Adult Literature: Exploring Real Struggles through Fictional Characters”. This year, Richmond is celebrating 20 years as an NMU faculty member. Richmond earned a master’s degree in English composition and rhetoric from Texas A&M University-Commerce and a doctorate from Illinois State University. Read the WLUC-TV article.
A&M-Commerce alum Michael Glas was named deputy CEO of Carevide on October 1, 2020. According to an article at EGreenvilleExtra.com, Glas has worked with Carevide for more than eight years in employee and consulting roles. Glas graduated from A&M-Commerce in 2007 with a Bachelor of Science degree and in 2010 with an MBA. Carevide is a local non-profit health center serving Northeast Texas. Read the EGreenvillelExtra article.
Local author Jim Ainsworth recently published a new book, “His Way.” The novel is set in a small Texas town that is shrouded in mystery. A book launch celebration is planned at Mugs on the Square in Commerce, Texas, on December 3, 2020, from 4 to 6 p.m. Ainsworth received his B.B.A. from East Texas State University (now A&M-Commerce). He is a Distinguished Alumnus and Gold Blazer recipient. Ainsworth has published nine novels. For more information on his newest book, visit the author’s website.
A&M-Commerce alum Codie Hedge was recently promoted to president of Graham Savings and Loan SSB, a bank in Graham, Texas. In his new role, he will oversee management and lending operations. Hedge is a Graham Chamber of Commerce ambassador and has completed multiple training programs from banking associations in Texas. Hedge obtained his bachelor’s degree in business management from A&M-Commerce and has worked at Graham Savings and Loan since 2011. He served as vice president of Graham Savings and Loan SSB prior to his promotion. Read the full story.
Texas A&M University-Commerce alum Erin “Amanda” Bowdoin was recently appointed to the Rehabilitation Council of Texas by Governor Greg Abbott, along with three others. The Rehabilitation Council works under the Texas Workforce Commission to advocate for Texans with disabilities in the vocational rehabilitation process. Bowdoin graduated from A&M-Commerce with a Bachelor of Arts in Elementary Education. Bowdoin and the other appointees, Emily Robinson, Roderick Robinson and Lindsey Geeslin, will serve their terms until October 29, 2023.
Melva Henderson, a graduate of Texas A&M University-Commerce, was recently appointed by Texas Governor Greg Abbott to the State Independent Living Council. The council, founded in 1989, is tasked with partnering, developing and monitoring a comprehensive state plan that develops goals and funding for independent living services in Texas. Other roles of the Texas State Independent Living Council are systems advocacy and public education on disability-related topics. Henderson earned her master’s degree in social work from A&M-Commerce. She and three other appointees will serve on the council until October 24, 2023.
A significant number of Texas A&M University-Commerce alumni have been placed in some of the top doctoral programs in the nation. Five recent A&M-Commerce Agribusiness graduates are currently continuing their studies in the field. The recent graduates include: • Artak Meloyan (A&M-Commerce class of 2017) is currently pursuing a Ph.D. at the University of Wisconsin-Madison • Hovhannes Mnatsakanyan (A&M-Commerce class of 2017) is currently pursuing a Ph.D. at the University of California-Davis. • Chelsea Arnold (A&M-Commerce class of 2018) is currently pursuing a Ph.D. at Kansas State University • Armine Poghosyan (A&M-Commerce class of 2018) is currently pursuing a Ph.D. at Virginia Tech University • Samuel Uche (A&M-Commerce class of 2019) is currently pursuing a Ph.D. at Texas Tech University
Tatiana Chamorro was recently featured on The Digital Hacker Agency Podcast, a digital marketing podcast. Chamorro graduated from A&M-Commerce in May 2020 with a master’s degree in marketing. The Nicaraguan native described her path to founding Hyvemark, an innovative marketing agency that she launched after her graduation from A&M-Commerce. Chamorro also offered tips for success that include finding your passion and setting intentional goals. Listen to the full feature.
Matthew Richardson, a graduate of Texas A&M University-Commerce, has joined the campus Counseling Center as a physician assistant. He is a part of the interdisciplinary team that provides compassionate and caring mental health services to A&M-Commerce students. Richardson began working in this position in September 2020.
A recent article at NFL Draft Diamonds reported that Texas A&M University-Commerce alum Mike Onuoha is expected to work out with the Indianapolis Colts. Onuoha was recently released by the Baltimore Ravens. The football standout graduated from A&M-Commerce in 2017 with a Bachelor of Science in General Studies.
Dr. Dawn Weatherford recently sat for an interview with All Things Cognitive, a podcast produced by the prestigious Psychonomic Society. She discussed her recently published paper in the Psychonomic Society journal Cognitive Research: Principles and Implications. Her paper, “You shall not pass: how facial variability and feedback affect the detection of low prevalence fake IDs,” discusses the cognitive abilities of security screeners to detect fake IDs. Weatherford earned her doctorate in educational psychology from Texas A&M University-Commerce in 2013. Listen to the interview.
Dr. Kisha McDonald, a graduate of Texas A&M University-Commerce, took over a newly-created role with Cedar Hill Independent School District in June. As executive director of school leadership for grades six through twelve, McDonald oversees secondary education at five schools in the Cedar Hill district. McDonald earned her doctorate in supervision, curriculum and instruction from A&M-Commerce. She also holds a bachelor’s degree from Texas A&M University, a master’s degree from Prairie View A&M University and a master’s degree from Texas A&M University-Texarkana. McDonald has 21 years’ experience in the Texas education system as a teacher at four different school districts, an assistant principal and principal. She most recently served as director of social-emotional learning at Mansfield ISD.
The A&M-Commerce Department of Physics and Astronomy is the recipient of a National Science Foundation grant intended to fund a summer Research Experience for Undergraduates (REU) for community college students interested in physics and astronomy. The 10-week REU program—which runs from June 6 through August 12—will host six students from community colleges in the mid-south region near Northeast Texas, which borders the neighboring states of Oklahoma, Arkansas and Louisiana. The grant will provide each participant with a $6,000 stipend, housing and travel support to and from Commerce, as well as an observing run at McDonald Observatory in Fort Davis, Texas. Selected participants will work directly with a faculty mentor on a collaborative research project matching the student’s specific interests. Additionally, students will attend several social events and field trips to research and industrial institutions in North and East Texas. Learn more about the summer 2021 physics and astronomy REU. Application deadline is March 31.
Dallas Regional Chamber recently published an article that examines how area universities have responded to the COVID-19 pandemic. The article highlights A&M-Commerce, Austin College, Dallas Baptist University, Texas Woman’s University, and the University of North Texas. According to the article, “Texas A&M University-Commerce (TAMUC) was one of the few institutions that didn’t miss a beat, beginning online instruction immediately following the university’s regularly scheduled spring break, largely thanks to the school’s robust catalog of online classes and widespread use of learning management systems in traditional courses.” The article notes that A&M-Commerce has recorded growth in graduate enrollment, partly due to a slower job market. Additionally, the article points out that the pandemic has accelerated innovation in higher education, including online programming. “…TAMUC is nationally recognized for its non-traditional, competency-based education programs, which grant credit for an individual’s prior work experience,” the article states. “Presently, TAMUC offers the program in criminal justice and organizational leadership, but is preparing tracks in health services administration, safety and health, and other fields to respond to emergent workforce needs stemming from COVID-19.” Read the Dallas Regional Chamber article.
Faculty at Texas A&M University-Commerce now have free access to a suite of powerful tools thanks to a recent partnership between the university and Oracle Academy. Programs for use include cloud technologies, software, support and professional certification resources. The Oracle Academy touts itself as a platform for “advanc(ing) computing education around the world to increase knowledge, innovation, skills development, and diversity in technology fields.” The partnership is similar to the university’s inclusion in the SAP University Alliance, which allows A&M-Commerce faculty to embed appropriate SAP transactions within selected courses. As of the end of Fall 2020, A&M-Commerce had awarded 11 SAP UA Student Recognition Awards to students for completing three or more courses, and has 511 students who have taken at least one SAP course. A recent graduate went so far as to receive certification as an SAP application developer. Interested faculty can learn more about Oracle Academy and sign up for free at the academy website.
The Center for Business Excellence at A&M-Commerce is available to provide organizations with customized business training programs and consulting services. Visit the Center for Excellence web page to learn more about the services they provide. View the Center for Excellence promotional video.
The A&M-Commerce Sport and Recreation Management program recently released a promotional video touting the purpose and benefit of its undergraduate degree offering. “A lot of times, if we’re doing our job correctly in sport and recreation, you never see us,” said Dr. Clay Bolton, assistant professor in the Department of Health and Human Performance. “We’re not the athletes, we’re not the coaches. In a lot of cases, we’re not even the owners. We’re all the people in between those.” Assistant Professor Samantha Roberts states in the video, “The undergraduate Sport and [Recreation] Management program gives you the opportunity to experience professional sport, but also campus recreation, athletics here on campus, city parks and [recreation], and really opens your eyes to the plethora of opportunities that are available to you in the sport industry more broadly.” Watch the video.
In 2020, Texas A&M University-Commerce received approval from the Texas A&M University System and the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board to begin offering a Bachelor of Science in Sustainable Agriculture and Food Systems. This makes A&M-Commerce only the second university in the state of Texas to offer an undergraduate degree in sustainable agriculture. The degree affords students an opportunity to work hands-on in a variety of settings discovering the processes that keep our food systems running smoothly, and work with people, plants and animals to improve our planet and feed a growing world. The curriculum for this 120-hour program is varied, with students taking courses in natural resources management, animal science, urban agriculture and agricultural economics, among others. Dr. Bob Williams, professor of agriculture, food and family at A&M-Commerce, stated that programs like these benefit us all in the future. “We have finite natural resources, and food insecurity is a worldwide issue,” Williams said. “This program aims to give students the tools to address these issues while at the same time leaving the planet in good shape for future generations.” The program has already seen interest, with 34 students enrolled in the Introduction to Sustainable Agriculture course during fall 2020. “I hope that this program will be attractive to not just traditional ag students but those interested in gardening, self-sufficiency and a wide range of topics,” Williams said. To learn more about the B.S. in Sustainable Agriculture and Food Systems, visit the program webpage.
In a recent ranking from GreatBusinessSchools.org, the B.S. in Technology Management at Texas A&M University-Commerce was named one of the most affordable degrees in engineering management in the nation. A&M-Commerce’s program, which integrates technology, applied engineering, project management, and leadership, was ranked the third-most affordable. GreatBusinessSchools.com is an independent, third-party site that ranks schools and provides detailed information about institutions of higher education. See the ranking and learn more about our Technology Management program.
The Meadows Principal Leadership Institute presented the Meadows Law Conference on October 28 at the McKinney ISD Community Event Center. Dr. Nathan Templeton, associate professor in the Department of Educational Leadership at A&M-Commerce, serves as director of the institute. The Meadows Principal Improvement Program offers a series of professional development opportunities for professional educators in Northeast Texas. More than 100 administrators from campuses and districts across Northeast Texas attended the conference. Sponsored by a grant from the Meadows Foundation, the conference addressed special education issues and changing 504 laws. Renowned legal scholar Jim Walsh facilitated the conference, which focused on creating developmental opportunities for school administrators and policymakers. Attendees also learned methods of improving their campus’s ability to provide special education services. “This was an incredibly successful event that keeps our practitioners abreast of changing laws and policies regarding educating our children with special needs,” Templeton said.
The Mexia High School Class of 1959 presented $45,000 to Texas A&M University-Commerce in June 2019 to establish an endowed scholarship fund. This fall, the new scholarship will be available to a deserving A&M-Commerce student for the first time. The scholarship is open to Mexia High School graduates of any age who are pursuing an undergraduate or graduate degree at A&M-Commerce. The scholarship recipient must be a sophomore or above, and students who are enrolled at A&M-Commerce at Navarro College will receive priority consideration. The Mexia High School Class of 1959 has a history of giving. For decades, the class members have enjoyed a close bond as they work together to provide educational opportunities to Mexia graduates. In 2019, the class was gifted a portion of the Ina Cooper estate. With this gift, the group agreed to establish the Mexia High School Class of 1959 Scholarship at A&M-Commerce. April Carl, director of development for Institutional Advancement at A&M-Commerce, expressed gratitude on behalf of the university. “We are honored to be a part of the legacy created by the Mexia Class of 1959 and truly appreciate their generosity in giving so others may succeed,” Carl said. The scholarship application deadline is November 1, 2020, and full scholarship details are available at https://tamu-commerce.academicworks.com.
The Planetarium at Texas A&M University-Commerce is reopening with new seats and a few new requirements. Reservations are now available for shows beginning November 13 and running through December 18. Seating is limited. The feature presentation will be Mystery of the Christmas Star. Shows will start at 7 p.m. Reservations are required in order to practice safe distancing. All visitors, regardless of age, are required to wear a face covering for the duration of their visit. Tickets are $5 per person, payable at the facility. Reservations can be made by calling 903.468.8650. Learn more about the A&M-Commerce Planetarium.
The Office of Latinx Engagement and Outreach (LEO) at A&M-Commerce is facilitating the creation of a Latino Staff and Faculty Association at the university. This first-of-its-kind group for the campus’ Latino population was established to provide representation of diverse staff and faculty at key decision and stakeholder opportunities, empower Latino/Hispanic professionals, assist the university in becoming a federally recognized Hispanic Serving Institution, and aid the university with its diversity, equity and inclusion goals. This group has been a long time coming, with talks beginning almost eight years ago. Association founders shared that more than 50 interested university members attended the first official meeting on October 8. The association anticipates monthly meetings to begin in November, and interested parties can contact them at [email protected]
After a deadly amoeba was discovered in the water supply of Lake Jackson in Brazoria County, Texas, A&M-Commerce is joining with other universities in the A&M System to help improve the water quality in Texas. Texas A&M AgriLife is creating a network across Texas to improve water programs in communities throughout the state. A&M-Commerce will assist with scientific investigations as well as educational outreach. Read the full story.
“What Truth Sounds Like,” a recent online symposium hosted by the College of Education and Human Services at A&M-Commerce, addressed systemic racism, trauma in the Black American community and the call for equity. Professor Donna Ford of Ohio State University was a keynote speaker at the event. Her address was quoted in a recent article in The Dallas Examiner. “We are living in more than one pandemic. So we have COVID-19 but I want to claim the other pandemic. The other pandemic is racism from 1619 to the present,” Ford said. In her speech, Ford discussed a white monopoly in the education system and called for more diversity in education.
Several locations on the campus of Texas A&M University-Commerce will be lit up in an array of colors in recognition of National Coming Out Day on Oct. 11 in support of the university’s LGBTQ community. National Coming Out Day has been recognized in the United States since 1988 and is aimed at bringing awareness to important LGBTQ issues.
The Department of Victim’s Advocacy and Support at Texas A&M University-Commerce is encouraging the university community to wear purple on Oct. 14 to raise awareness of Domestic Violence. October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month in America, and the community is invited to swap out their blue and gold attire on this upcoming Blue and Gold Wednesday for purple as a symbol of survivors and those who lost their lives due to domestic violence. In addition, select locations on campus will be lit up purple for the occasion. People are asked to share their purple looks on Facebook on Oct. 14 and tag @TAMUCAdvocacy in their photos.
The Department of Nursing at Texas A&M University-Commerce recently received a grant totaling $98,960 from the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board (THECB) Nursing Shortage Reduction Program. The program provides grants to professional nursing programs at public and private higher education institutions in order to combat nursing shortages and meet the need for registered nurses in the state of Texas. The university was selected for the award based on enrollment and graduation numbers in the undergraduate nursing program over a two-year period, as reported to THECB by the registrar’s office.
The Texas A&M University-Commerce College of Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources was awarded $50,400 by the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo to fund four graduate assistant positions within the college. This continues a long-standing partnership between HLSR and A&M-Commerce, with the organization donating more than $450,000 in scholarships to A&M-Commerce agricultural students to date. The recent funding from HLSR marks an increase in their commitment to agricultural education, as the amount was increased by $12,600 this year in order to add another GA position. The four graduate students that will benefit from this funding are Kaylee Kipp, Shannon Park, Sofia Martinez and Courtney Baldwin.
The Department of Biological and Environmental Sciences at Texas A&M University-Commerce received grant funding as part of the university’s ongoing affiliation with the Joint Admission Medical Program (JAMP). JAMP is a partnership between 11 medical schools in Texas and 70 public and private four-year undergraduate institutions. The program provides financial and academic support for qualifying pre-med students, as well as guaranteed admission to a medical school in Texas upon completing all requirements at graduation. Dr. John Slovak, assistant professor in the department reports most funds from the grant will be used to provide tutors in the JAMP room located within the McFarland Science Building at A&M-Commerce. Learn about JAMP.
The Department of Nursing at Texas A&M-Commerce is featured in a recent article from the Herald-Banner newspaper in Greenville, Texas, for its efforts to train nursing students amid the challenges of the COVID-19 era. “Since March, so many things have changed, everything from pedagogy to budget,” said A&M-Commerce Department of Nursing Head Denise Neill in the story. “Statewide, the rules have been changing daily, so when we’re just about to get the hang of new procedures, new changes come in.” Left to right: Dr. Monica Tenhunen, Hannah Dixon, Dr. Denise Neill and Camila Brown of the Texas A&M University-Commerce Nursing Department. Photo courtesy of Herald-Banner. Neill said the pandemic has forced faculty to be creative and reconsider how they approach the role of teaching students. “It’s all made us reevaluate re-evaluate what’s essential,” Neill said. Professor Monica Tenhunen agrees. “People are a lot more adaptable than they’re often given credit for,” said Tenhunen. “Innovation isn’t just an academic buzzword. It can mean nursing done a lot better.” Read the full story.
A&M-Commerce received approval from the Texas A&M University System and the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board to offer the Master of Public Health degree program with face-to-face instruction or fully-online learning, beginning fall 2020. “The College of Education and Human Services is preparing future leaders today,” said Dr. Kimberly McLeod, dean of the college. “We continue to respond to current and future workforce demands by offering degree programs that prepare our students to contribute professionally to local, state, national and global needs.” Dr. Elizabeth Wachira, director of the public health program at A&M-Commerce, said the new program comes at a pivotal time, considering the dramatic increase in demand for public health professionals amid the COVID-19 pandemic. “The fully-online format is accessible for working professionals,” said Wachira. “Graduates of the program will be equipped with the knowledge and skills necessary to address public health issues from an evidence-based, multidisciplinary approach.” The graduate program is 42 credit hours.
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Degree Program Accounting (BBA) This program provides you with the ability to achieve competency in internal control systems, managerial accounting, income tax accounting, financial accounting and not-for-profit accounting.
Degree Program Accounting (MSA) This program is designed for those who want to specialize in accounting at the graduate level. The MSA is excellent preparation if you are planning a career in public accounting, industry or government.
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Administration The Administrative Offices of Texas A&M University-Commerce are the heartbeat of our campus. Dedication to assuring a quality educational experience for all students is their ongoing mission. Administrative Office
Degree Program Agribusiness (BS) This program of study is designed to prepare students for careers in various businesses or government agencies associated with the production, processing and distribution of agricultural products.
Degree Program Agricultural Sciences (BS) Our program will give you the opportunity to learn basic economics, management, plant and animal operations, pest control, food sciences as well as production and utilization of agricultural products and marketing.
Degree Program Agricultural Sciences (MS) Acquire a competitive edge with this advanced degree that allows you the choice to dig deeper into agricultural economics, agricultural mechanization, animal science, plant and soil science or horticulture.
Degree Program Agricultural Sciences & Technology (BS) This program will provide a comprehensive look at these new techniques and technologies to create ideal environments for animal and plant production.
College of Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources Our college is small enough to be a family yet large enough to provide you learning and career opportunities you need. Come and learn alongside us! coasnr casnr casanr casnar Agricultural food farming husbandry
Degree Program Agriculture, Food and Natural Resources Alternative Teacher Certification Use your practical experience with animals, crops, greenhouses and the environment to educate our secondary school students. At A&M-Commerce, you can earn your Agriculture, Food and Natural Resources Educator Certificate. In your new career as a teacher, you will prepare the next generation of agriculture and natural resources professionals.
Degree Program Alternative Teacher Certifications Our online teacher certification at A&M-Commerce is uniquely designed for those of you who have previously earned a bachelor’s degree and now seek to transition into a career in the teaching profession without pursuing a master’s degree. The program requires 18 hours of online coursework along with field-based work and student teaching.
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Degree Program Animal Science (BS) This program prepares students with a firm understanding of agribusiness, livestock culture and the preparation of animals for food production purposes.
Degree Program Animal Science Pre-Veterinary Medicine option (BS) Through the pre-veterinary medicine concentration, you’ll be able to explore and develop knowledge in animal science, nutrition, physiology and other vital information you can use as you continue your studies and later work in the field.
Annual Research Symposium Discover a great opportunity to showcase your student research for the university!
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Degree Program Applied Arts and Sciences (BAAS) Our BAAS program is flexible, affordable and 100 percent online. If you have earned or worked toward an Associate of Applied Science (A.A.S.) degree, our innovative BAAS program will provide you with a cost-effective pathway to earning your Bachelor degree. We will accept up to 85 hours of your previous coursework from an accredited institution, which means you are only 37 hours away from earning your degree!
Degree Program Applied Criminology (MS) The entirely online Master of Science in Applied Criminology degree meets the needs of traditional students preparing to embark on new careers, as well as those currently working in the criminal justice field and those wishing to pursue professional advancement..
Degree Program Applied Criminology (MS) The entirely online Master of Science in Applied Criminology degree meets the needs of traditional students preparing to embark on new careers, as well as those currently working in the criminal justice field and those wishing to pursue professional advancement..
Degree Program Applied Linguistics with an Emphasis in TESOL (MA/MS) As a student in the Applied Linguistics program, you will engage in cutting-edge pedagogical and research strategies with others who are pursuing careers in teaching English to speakers of other languages. Whether you choose this field as a primary or complementary discipline, this program will prepare you for a variety of careers including teaching at the university level or teaching English as a second language abroad.
Degree Program Applied Linguistics with an Emphasis in TESOL (MA/MS) As a student in the Applied Linguistics program, you will engage in cutting-edge pedagogical and research strategies with others who are pursuing careers in teaching English to speakers of other languages. Whether you choose this field as a primary or complementary discipline, this program will prepare you for a variety of careers including teaching at the university level or teaching English as a second language abroad.
Department of Art Excel in a variety of art professions and engage in a life-long appreciation of the visual arts. photography history ceramics design communication studio new media sculpture painting
Degree Program Art (BFA/BA) Our Bachelor of Fine Arts and our Bachelor of Arts (BFA/BA) in Studio Art programs provide an intensive foundation in theoretical knowledge and professional skills. Develop a personal vision, high-level techniques and the ability to make sound artistic decisions.
Degree Program Art (MA) Studio Art Emphasis This master’s degree may be pursued either for personal enrichment or to advance one’s professional standings and credentials. Courses for the degree include painting, sculpture, photography, drawing, ceramics and mixed and multi-media art.
Degree Program Art (MA) Visual Communication Emphasis The advanced degree with an emphasis in visual communication centers on meeting the needs of practicing professionals in the expanding field of visual communication who aspire to achieve a higher level of proficiency in creative innovation, design professional practice and design leadership. The program explores creative process innovation; design professional practice leadership, strategy, process and product; and creative marketing promotion grounded in a social and business perspective. Courses for this degree are taught at Universities Center at Dallas (UCD) in Downtown Dallas.
Degree Program Art (MFA) Studio Art Emphasis This degree is built from the ground up to meet the artist where they are and enhance every level of their artistic ability through intensive study and hands on training.
Degree Program Art (MFA) Visual Communication Emphasis The advanced degree with an emphasis in visual communication centers on meeting the needs of practicing professionals in the expanding field of visual communication who aspire to achieve a higher level of proficiency in creative innovation, design professional practice and design leadership. The program explores creative process innovation; design professional practice leadership, strategy, process and product; and creative marketing promotion grounded in a social and business perspective. Courses for this degree are taught at Universities Center at Dallas (UCD) in Downtown Dallas.
Behavior Intervention Team BIT serves as a central network focused on preventative and timely intervention before crisis arises. Learn more about our services here. bit
Degree Program Bilingual Education/English as a Second Language (ESL) Minor Become specialized in bilingual education. You'll the foundation of bilingual/ESL education and how to assess, create and deliver specialized content for bilingual students. It is highly recommended for you to know Spanish.
Degree Program Bilingual or ESL Teacher (BAIS/BSIS) Develop in-depth understanding of multicultural learning environments and learn to meet the needs of culturally and linguistically diverse students with our interdisciplinary studies bachelor’s degree program. If you seek to become a bilingual teacher, who provides instruction in both Spanish and English, this program requires Spanish literacy. If you seek to become an ESL teacher, who provides instruction in English, you do not need foreign language literacy.
Department of Biological and Environmental Science Our programs encompass biological sciences, environmental sciences, wildlife conservation science and teacher certification.
Degree Program Biological Sciences (BA/BS) The BA or BS degree provides a comprehensive overview of biological sciences, working from the molecular level up through ecosystems. The programs are suited for you if you are interested in the biological sciences, a career in biological research or applying for candidacy in medicine, dentistry, physical therapy or other allied health sciences fields.
Degree Program Biological Sciences (BS) Teaching Emphasis There is a growing need for science teachers in high school. A degree in biology along with a teacher certification will allow you to combine your interest and passion for biology with influencing and shaping the lives of the next generation.
Degree Program Biological Sciences (MS) If you are interested in furthering your studies in biological sciences, this program will enable you to work closely with faculty members with similar research interests. Faculty research interests within the department include behavioral ecology, environmental science, microbiology, neuroscience, molecular, cellular and developmental biology, as well as wildlife ecology and conservation.
Department of Biomedical Institute for Regenerative Research BIRR is a new venture focused on the development of a world-class innovative research institute. We are located in the new Nursing and Health Sciences Building.
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A&M Commerce at Bryan (RELLIS) Located in Bryan, Texas, the RELLIS campus is a collaborative space for innovative research. RELLIS, locations, Bryan Texas, Extended University
Degree Program Business Administration (BSBA) The B.S. degree with a major in business administration provides you with a broad-based business major and affords you an opportunity to select elective courses to complete an interdisciplinary studies minor. Graduates of this program would qualify for entry-level management or management trainee positions in marketing, finance, real estate, retailing and wholesaling, as well as positions in government or hospital administration.
Degree Program Business Administration (MBA with Minor) Strengthen your MBA with a minor to building your niche in the business world that will put you ahead of your peers in the competitive job market.
Degree Program Business Administration (MBA) This program will prepare you for advanced management positions that demand analytic and strategic leadership solutions for an interrelated set of economic, ethical and environmental issues.
Degree Program Business Analytics (BBA) Big Data has become big business, and professionals with the ability to identify opportunity and solve problems from this data are in demand across diverse industries. Prepare for a career as a computer systems analyst, management analyst, business analyst, process analyst, market research analyst, operations research analyst or cyber-security analyst.
Degree Program Business Analytics (MS) The Master of Science in Business Analytics program will prepare you to enter the workforce in the rapidly emerging field of business analytics, which involves collecting, organizing, analyzing, optimizing and interpreting Big Data for problem solving and decision making.
Degree Program Business Analytics Graduate Certificate The Business Analytics Graduate Certificate is a 12 semester hour (4 courses) certificate. All courses are currently being taught and eligible to help meet the requirements for the Master of Science in Business Analytics (MS-BUSA) program.
Department of Campus Life and Student Development This is where the fun begins. Our main focus is enriching your student experience. Campus life, student development, student organizations, activities, events
Department of Campus Operations and Safety It is paramount that we keep our campus a safe space for our Lion community. Learn more about our operations and safety strategy here. fire health environmental chemical risk management event assessment emergency
Campus Recreation Active adventure awaits you, from the heated leisure pool to the 45-foot climbing wall. See a full list of the amenities Campus Rec has to offer you. bike, swim, pool, wall, climbing wall, sports, fitness Facilities Fitness Personal Training Wellness Intramural Sports Club Sports Outdoor Adventure Aquatics Active Anywhere Certifications and Safety Courses
Degree Program Career and Technology Teacher Certifications We offer eight Career and Technical Education certificates designed to prepare candidates for a career as a Texas certified teacher: Trades and Industrial Education, Health Science Technology, Marketing all which require work experience plus, Agricultural, Food and Natural Resources; Family and Consumer Sciences Composite; Human Development and Family Studies; Hospitality, Nutrition and Food Sciences, Technology Education.
Degree Program Chemical Dependency Counseling Graduate Certificate This certificate will prepare professionals with the necessary theories, assessments and modalities to counsel, prepare, and implement treatment plans for substance abuse clients, their families, and co-workers.
Department of Chemistry We discover scientific knowledge, communicate and advance innovation together. Join us!
Degree Program Chemistry (BS) Whether your interest is in the structure and chemical reactions in living systems, properties and reactions of organic or inorganic minerals and compounds, or how matter behaves on a molecular level, a degree in chemistry will prepare you for industry career or graduate studies. A wide variety of careers are available to chemists in industry, the government or academia. Options include, but are not limited to, chemical health and safety, toxicology, oil and petroleum, forensics, textiles, agriculture and food, polymers, environmental protection, and research.
Degree Program Chemistry (BS) Teaching Emphasis There is a growing need for STEM educators. A degree in chemistry with a teacher certification will allow you to combine your passion for chemistry and the classroom. You'll take courses in general and organic chemistry, physics, and biology. Our program offers specialized teaching courses for chemistry teachers including roles and responsibilities for STEM educators, technology-infused curriculum, and project-based learning in STEM. You'll be required to complete a teaching residency senior year. After graduating, you'll be certified to teach science at the secondary level (grades 7-12).
Degree Program Chemistry (MS) You can select a thesis study and a professional master degree. If you are interested in furthering your studies in chemistry, this program will enable you to work closely with faculty members with similar research interests. Faculty research interests within the department include metal binding, surface chemistry for industrially-important catalysts, ionic liquids as catalysts in organic reactions, porphyrin-based anion receptors, bacterial nucleic acid metabolism and green chemistry approaches. The non-thesis options include a professional master degree in chemistry, professional chemical business degree, or professional chemical education degree.
Children’s Learning Center We are a nationally accredited, 4-star program serving students and faculty/staff of the university as well as families from our community from the A&M-Commerce campus.
Degree Program Christianity in History Graduate Certificate This certificate is an interdisciplinary program designed to allow you to specialize in the subject and gain a particular depth of knowledge in it while pursuing an MA/MS in History at A&M-Commerce.
Campus Map Commerce This gorgeous historic campus is our home base. We hope you will visit soon! Check out the campus map. Map, Campus map
Degree Program Communication Studies (BA/BS) The Communication Studies program produces graduates who understand and can solve communication problems, making them uniquely qualified to contribute to the growth and betterment of any team.
Office of Compliance We ensure the institution is following federal and state regulations as well as the A&M System standards. Please tell us you see something that is not right!
Degree Program Computational Linguistics Graduate Certificate This program offers a 15-credit hour graduate certificate intended to document foundational skills and expertise in computational linguistics and natural language processing (NLP). The coursework for the certificate aims to overcome the common lack of foundational knowledge in both pillars of this multidisciplinary field, computer science and linguistics, introducing the basic issues in these fields as they are relevant to computational linguistics.
Degree Program Computational Science (MS) Computational Science is a field that utilizes computing capabilities to understand and/or solve complex problems within other disciplines. You can select a thesis or non-thesis option for your graduate work in computational science. This program is an interdisciplinary program involving various subject areas, including computer science, linguistics, business analytics, biological sciences and physics. In this program you will deal with complex real-world problems with solutions that can only be found through a multidisciplinary approach.
Degree Program Computer Information Systems (BSCIS) This program will prepare you for a wide variety of applications found in the diverse computing and information technology fields. With a strong foundation in programming, database technology, data structures, computer networks and application program development you will have the skills and knowledge you need to succeed as an application analyst, data analyst, data scientist, information systems management and other information technology fields.
Degree Program Computer Information Systems (BSCIS) Teaching Emphasis copied not edited This program will prepare you for a wide variety of applications found in the diverse computing and information technology fields. With a strong foundation in programming, database technology, data structures, computer networks and application program development you will have the skills and knowledge you need to succeed as an application analyst, data analyst, data scientist, information systems management and other information technology fields.
Degree Program Computer Science (BS) A degree in computer science will equip you with the essential skills for a modern world. Career fields include, but not limited to, cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, programming/coding, computer networks, cyber physical systems, digital forensics, operating systems, mobile programming, data analytics, database systems, machine learning and research.
Degree Program Computer Science (MS) You can select a thesis or non-thesis option for your graduate work in Computer Science. Based upon your interest and/or career goals, you will select a track in databases, computer networks, security, artificial intelligence, data science, image processing, or software engineering to complement the core comprised of data structures, algorithm design, operating systems, computer architecture and automation theory.
Department of Computer Science and Information System If you are excited by new technology and creative analytical problem solving, consider our programs!
Degree Program Construction Engineering (BS) Construction engineering is involved in the planning, management and building of structures and facilities essential to societies and communities, as well as the overall improvement in the standard of living. If you are interested in rebuilding and maintaining the current infrastructure in the United States and/or developing the new infrastructure needed to support population growth, this is your degree.
Coronavirus The health and safety of our students, faculty and staff are our top priorities. We are doing everything we can to stay updated and keep our university protected. We encourage you to remain informed and use precaution when traveling. Stay Healthy Lions! outbreak cdc cancelation closure close corona virus carona carrona corrona corronna coronna viras lions
Department of Counseling Prepare for careers in community agencies, schools, student affairs, higher education, private practice and more.
Degree Program Counseling (MED/MS) The Master of Education in Counseling is a 36-semester hour program designed for those students who plan to work in college and university student affairs, but prefer a counseling foundation in their preparation. Graduates of this program typically seek employment in student activities, career services, academic advising, Greek affairs, recruiting and admissions, residence life, and other departments and offices within the student affairs division of community colleges and four-year colleges and universities. The Master of Science in Counseling offers an emphasis in School Counseling (51 semester hours) for those students seeking certification as a professional school counselor and an emphasis in Clinical Mental Health Counseling (60 semester hours) for those students desiring licensure as a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC). Both programs include a common core as well as courses specific to each emphasis. Students now can obtain School Counselor + LPC.
Counseling Center Visit us for counseling services and helpful resources. Your health and success is our priority.
Degree Program Counselor Education and Supervision (PHD) The Ph.D. in Counseling includes 69-72 hours of coursework in the classroom and online. This total includes field experience, advanced courses, research tools and finally, a dissertation.
Degree Program Criminal Justice (BACJ/BSCJ) The broad field major in criminal justice is designed for students who wish to receive the Bachelor of Arts or Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice. The curriculum has a multi-disciplinary foundation, is social science oriented, is academic in content and emphasizes the development of knowledge and skills essential for a broad understanding of the criminal justice system. The objective of the major is to prepare you for entry-level positions in law enforcement, juvenile justice, courts, community-based corrections, institutional corrections and other related fields.
Degree Program Criminal Justice (BS) Law Enforcement Leadership Emphasis, Competency-Based The Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice with an emphasis in Law Enforcement Leadership (BSCJ-CJCB) at Texas A&M University-Commerce is a 100% online, competency-based program designed specifically for first responders: law enforcement, peace officers and military personnel with existing work experience, police academy training, or other certifications. Courses are offered in an accelerated format, so students can move swiftly through material they already have mastery over, and focus more attention on topics that are new and challenging to their existing knowledge base. The courses are self-paced, so students can work according to their own schedule. Students in the BSCJ-CJCB program develop practical workplace competencies that meet current and future challenges facing first responders today.
Degree Program Criminal Justice Management Graduate Certificate This certificate is designed to attract student practitioners seeking to advance within the decision-making and leadership roles within their field. The courses in this plan focus on management and policy issues. This certificate is ideal for you if you wish to specialize in management issues, such as evaluating, planning, organizing, staffing, directing, coordinating, reporting and budgeting.
Degree Program Criminal Justice Studies Graduate Certificate If you are seeking to gain general knowledge in the field, whether you are new to concepts in criminal justice or are currently working in the criminal justice field, this might be the best fit for you. The flexibility of this certificate allows for a great deal of latitude in customizing courses to suit individual professional interests.
Degree Program Curriculum & Instruction (MED/MS) This degree involves 18 hours of study in the major and 18 hours of electives which allows students to take additional courses in the major, focus on an area of interest, or qualify to teach high school dual credit classes or at the community college level.
Department of Curriculum and Instruction Learn about pedagogy, instruction design and more. teaching education teacher elementary school middle level certification secondary all level all-level bilingual special education sped
Degree Program Cybersecurity (BS) Earn your bachelor’s degree in cybersecurity from our extended instruction site at The RELLIS Campus in Bryan, Texas. Demand for a qualified cybersecurity workforce is outpacing the supply of trained professionals in Texas and beyond! Expand your knowledge of computer and network systems security and prepare to join one of the fastest growing cyber-related job markets in the nation.
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Dissertation Thesis & Dissertation Services provides support, resources and oversight as you work on your research project.
A&M Commerce at Downtown Dallas Downtown Dallas is the place to be. Now you can live there while earning a degree. UCD, Universities Center at Dallas, El Centro, locations, extended university
Degree Program Early Childhood Education (MED/MA/MS) The major in early childhood education prepares graduates for careers in both public and private educational settings in which the primary focus is young children. A graduate with a major in early childhood education should possess competencies in the knowledge of physiological and psychological development of children birth through fourth grade, curriculum theory and development, effective instructional strategies for young children, and the administration and management of classrooms and facilities for young children.
Degree Program Economics of U.S. Healthcare Graduate Certificate This certificate provides you with a better understanding of the U.S. healthcare system and prepares the students for careers as healthcare executives.
College of Education and Human Services We’re improving the quality of life in Texas and beyond by educating teachers, administrators and human services professionals. Join us! coehs cehs
Degree Program Educational Administration (EDD) The Doctor of Education degree in Educational Administration emphasizes K-12 public school administration. This program is one of the only online doctoral programs in the state.
Degree Program Educational Administration (MED) The Master of Educational Administration allows students the ability to become great administors as well as knowledgeable principles. Students will learn skills in leadership, financial and administrative.
Department of Educational Leadership Our programs are designed for the working practitioner who wishes to continue his or her education in leadership.
Degree Program Educational Psychology (PHD) The Ph.D. in Educational Psychology offers an interdisciplinary perspective on education. In this program, you will interact with a variety of sub-disciplines and grow your confidence in statistics and writing for publication.
Degree Program Educational Technology Leadership (MS) Educational Technology-Leadership is an online program designed to prepare students for leadership roles in K-16 education, training, service, industry and government and corporate settings. Specifically, the program focuses on the development of a philosophy of educational technology that incorporates literacy, integration and research related to best practices in the use of current and emerging technological trends.
Degree Program Educational Technology Library Science (MS/MED) The masters in Educational Technology Library Science at A&M-Commerce combines the core coursework for the masters in Educational Technology with the coursework required for School Librarian Certification in Texas. Students engage in experiential, project-and problem-based learning opportunities to create an e-portfolio of work to share with colleagues and future employers. Graduates of the program earn credentials to become certified Texas School Librarians or Library Media Specialists.
Educator Certifications Offering a broad selection of educator certification programs approved by the Texas Education Agency. Teacher Teaching alternative certification principal principle school librarian superintendent reading specialist school counseling Teacher Certification Teacher Certification Alternative Alternative Certification Field Based Tk20 Principal Superintendent Counselor Diagnostician Reading Specialist Master Reading School Librarian
Degree Program Electrical Engineering (BS) With instruction in circuits, electronics, digital systems, electrical networks, antenna design, electromagnetism, embedded control, signal analysis and programming, this degree will prepare you with the skills and knowledge needed to plan, design and evaluate electrical and electronic systems and their components.
Degree Program Elementary School Teacher (BAIS/BSIS) Choose from ECE Generalist, Bilingual Generalist, or ECE Special Education.
Department of Engineering and Technology Our programs are built upon instruction, research and infusion of real-world experiences. See for yourself!
Degree Program English (BA) This 120 hour program is flexible and accommodates students with a wide variety of interests and career goals.
Degree Program English (BA) Teaching Emphasis This program offers three specialized tracks all designed to immerse you in the world of English and equip you to pass on your knowledge to the next generation of writers.
Degree Program English (MA/MS) Our Master of Arts in English is designed for students who, upon completion, demonstrate a foreign language proficiency while the Master of Science in English is for students without foreign language focus.
Degree Program English (PHD) The Ph.D. in English is designed for students wishing to teach in community or four-year colleges and universities. It stresses both substantive knowledge of the various divisions within the field of English and an extensive introduction to the profession, including classroom teaching, tutoring and computer-assisted instruction. The degree requires that each candidate serve as a teaching assistant.
Degree Program English as a Second Language Specialization (ESL) The ESL specialization equips students with skills to strengthen instructional deliver for individuals who are learning English. Learn the affects of cognitive, linguistic and social needs in the ability to learn and foster a new language.
Degree Program Environmental Science (BS) If you are interested in the growing field of environmental science, this degree is for you. As a graduate you will be able to work for private environmental companies, corporations or federal, state, county or civic governments in positions that will impact air quality, water quality, hazard mitigation and other environmental challenges. Career fields include, but are not limited to, pollution remediation, environmental impact assessment, regulation enforcement and research.
Degree Program Environmental Sciences Graduate Certificate Our fully online, thirteen hour program prepares you for careers in conservation and sustainability. You will be able to work for private environmental companies, corporations or federal, state, county or civic governments in positions that will impact air quality, water quality, hazard mitigation and other environmental challenges. Career fields include, but are not limited to, pollution remediation, environmental impact assessment, regulation enforcement and research.
Degree Program Equine Studies (BS) Equine Studies majors at A&M-Commerce prepare for careers in the equine industry with hands-on courses in horsemanship, equine health, reproduction, and nutrition.
Degree Program Exercise Science Graduate Certificate If you are interested in helping others gain or regain fitness, strength and mobility due to injury, illness or aging; or you simply enjoy exercise and movement for fun, our graduate certificate in exercise science is the route for you. With topics including exercise physiology, personal and performance training, nutrition, and psychology, this 15-credit hour program is a great way to achieve a deeper understanding of the body’s responses to exercise and training. This curriculum will be taught using both face-to-face and online instruction.
Extended University We’re proud to bring the Lion spirit across Texas. Find a location near you. Locations, extended university
Externally Funded Projects Explore funding opportunities for your research project and gain the support you need to move it forward.
Facilities Management Facilities Management provides campus maintenance services. Authorized personnel can submit work orders from their site. Facilities Management
Faculty Handbook Everything you need to know as a faculty member. Push this to the top of your reading list.
Faculty Ombuds This group assists faculty with work-related difficulties, including interpersonal conflict and administrative concerns
Faculty Senate The voice of the faculty that makes recommendations on policy matters to the university president. Faculty Senate, Academic Resources
Degree Program Family and Consumer Sciences Alternative Teacher Certification Your life-long experience gives you the unique ability to teach family and consumer science to high school students. All you need now is a teaching certificate to begin imparting your knowledge to future family and consumer science professionals.
Degree Program Finance (BBA) This program will give you tangible and market-demanded skills related to capital management, investment and portfolio management, financial institutions, and personal finance.
Degree Program Finance (MSF) This program will give you a solid understanding of finance theory as well as the practical applications of theory to real-world problems to prepare you to meet the financial, managerial and global economic challenges of the 21st century and beyond.
Financial Services Get with us for assistance with accounts payable, budgets, bursar’s office, business services, fund accounting, grants and contracts, property management, reporting, and travel. Financial Services accounts payable, budgets, fund accounting, grants contracts, property management
Giving through the Foundation Ways to Give Endowed Gifts Donor Recognition Faculty Support Current Immediate Use Gifts
Fraternity & Sorority Life Greek Standards of Excellence Interfraternity Council Multicultural Greek Council National Pan-Hellenic Council College Panhellenic Council Order of Omega
A&M Commerce at Frisco Explore what undergraduate degrees we offer at our Frisco campus. Collin, Frisco, Preston, Ridge, locations, extended university
Degree Program General Business (BBA) The BBA in General Business degree is intended for students who desire a broad-based business curriculum. A major in general business will prepare you for a wide variety of employment options in business, industry and government.
Degree Program General Studies (BGS) The BGS degree will allow you to explore multiple areas of study, satisfying personal interests, aligning to career goals, or simply helping you wrap up the college education you might have started long ago.
Degree Program Gifted and Talented Certification (All-level) Develop academic excellence for students in Texas! Our All Level Gifted and Talented Certification teaches you how to identify students who display qualities that outshine others and create relevant content that challenges them. Courses can be used towards a master’s degree in Secondary Education and Curriculum and Instruction. Our program also prepares you for the TExES exam.
Graduate Faculty Membership The graduate faculty membership page outlines the standards and requirements for graduate faculty selection.
Graduate School Advance your career with one of our 40+ accredited and nationally recognized programs. graduate students, student
Graduation Information Even incoming freshmen are looking forward to this information! Get grad ready here. graduation ceremony, dates, commencement, diploma
Greek Life Scholarly success. Community service. Campus leadership. Fraternal friendship. Intrigued? Learn more
Greek Standards of Excellence Academic Chapter Management Leadership and Development Membership Recruitment Service Philanthropy
Degree Program Health, Kinesiology & Sports Studies (MS) – Athletic Administration Concentration Take a walk on the business side of sports and athletics. Our master’s program is specifically designed for full-time teachers and coaches who are interested in advancing their careers within athletic administration. As you pursue your degree, you will be challenged to apply concepts like sport psychology, finance and facilities operation to real-world problems and find feasible solutions. In one year, you can be prepared for such positions as high school/college athletic director or campus coordinator through our 100% online health, kinesiology and sports studies program.
Degree Program Health, Kinesiology & Sports Studies (MS) – Exercise Science Concentration Prepare for a rewarding career in athletic administration, exercise science, health promotion or sport and recreation management with a Master of Science in Health, Kinesiology and Sports Studies. With two concentrations offered 100% online, our affordable, convenient and practical degree programs are an ideal solution for working professionals like you to enhance your career.
Degree Program Health, Kinesiology & Sports Studies (MS) – International Sport Management Emphasis Do you want to make a difference as a leader in the world of sports? Our master’s degree in international sport management is for you. Sporting events all over the world are big business. Globally, they are part of life and cultural identities. With our 36-credit hour program, you will hone your leadership skills and international sport knowledge. Take the next step to influencing the global arena of sport by entering our program.
Degree Program Health, Kinesiology & Sports Studies (MS) – Sports Coaching Concentration Do you want to sharpen your skills as a coach? Our 30-credit hour master’s program is designed for you. It addresses the needs and goals of both pre-service and veteran coaches. You will enhance your skills and knowledge within the four essential areas of coaching which are tactical, technical, psychological and physical. Begin today.
Degree Program High School Teacher Our bachelor’s degree program in secondary education prepares you to teach at the high school level in public and private schools throughout Texas while coursework deepens knowledge of your chosen discipline. You will apply your knowledge and skills during residency with a local, partnering school district as part of your degree. Upon successful completion of the program, student teaching and passing all TExES exams, you will be eligible to work as a certified high school teacher.
Degree Program Higher Education (EDD) The Doctor of Education is designed for future leaders in higher education. Upon completion of the doctoral program, graduates will assume educational leadership roles in a variety of contexts. Graduates can also qualify to teach at colleges and universities.
Degree Program Higher Education (MS) Our vision is you! Let your passion for higher education improve the lives of others. At A&M Commerce, we offer one of the nation’s largest Higher Education programs, giving you excellence in education and endless opportunities. Our flexible degree prepares you for a wide-range of careers in academic counseling, college teaching, educational policymaking, or nonprofit organizations. You’ll examine a broad curriculum that explores how American colleges function in the 21st century. Experience higher education firsthand through internships and field teaching experiences. Learn at one of the leading institutions in Texas. Start your journey at A&M-Commerce!
Department of Higher Education and Learning Technology Work with us to prepare for your career in higher education.
Degree Program Higher Education Student Affairs Graduate Certificate This certificate prepares you to work in higher educational institutions with an emphasis on students. When you complete the certificate, careers related to student affairs will be the right place for you.
Login to Hire a Lion Launch the next step in your career or hire the next generation of talent. higher a Lion career student jobs
Department of History Through our program you will become trained in the discipline of history, acquainting yourself with the human past while learning to analyze historical works and think critically.
Degree Program History (BA/BS) Through this degree you will become trained in the discipline of history. Students will gain knowledge of the human past, practice historical research and writing, and learn to analyze and interpret evidence and historical interpretations. This program is a good selection if you plan to pursue advanced degrees in history or a career in public history, historic preservation, or government service.
Degree Program History (BA/BS) Teaching Emphasis Through this degree you will become trained in the discipline of history. Students will gain knowledge of the human past, practice historical research and writing, and learn to analyze and interpret evidence and historical interpretations. This program orients these skills toward the knowledge needed to teach history at the 7-12 grade levels.
Degree Program History (MA/MS) This degree offers students the opportunity for advanced study in historical interpretation, historical theory and research methods. For this option, students complete a Master’s Thesis under the direction of a faculty member selected according to student interest. ->(Non-thesis)o This degree offers students the opportunity for advanced study in historical interpretation, historical theory and research methods. For this option, students complete additional coursework to ensure broader content knowledge.
Degree Program Holocaust Studies Graduate Certificate This graduate certificate is designed to be interdisciplinary and to meet the needs of educators in Texas who offer curriculum components on the Holocaust and other genocides.
Degree Program Homeland Security Graduate Certificate This certificate is designed to attract members outside traditional criminal justice fields. Through this program, you will gain a broad understanding of homeland security issues while enhancing leadership capabilities among those who currently work in local, state and federal government and others who are interested in gaining greater knowledge about the field of homeland security. This certificate focuses on homeland security concepts, applicable management principles, policy analysis and the enhancement of critical thinking skills necessary to successfully address security challenges within the United States.
Honors Programs We have multiple honors programs that provide supplemental education and enrich the student experience. Read up on requirements here. Honors Programs, Special programs
Human Resources If you have a question or concern regarding your workplace or need information regarding your employee status or benefits, please contact the Office of Human Resources here. Employment Training Development Benefits Retirement Time Leave Wellness Workday
College of Humanities Social Sciences and Arts Explore the array of programs we have to offer! cohssa chssa
Degree Program Industrial Engineering (BS) As an industrial engineer, you will be counted upon to solve complex problems in a technological world. Industrial engineering is concerned with the design, improvement, and installation of integrated systems of people, materials, information, equipment and energy. You will have an opportunity to work in a variety of organizations, including but not limited to, hospitals, engineering firms, petrochemical companies, government agencies and manufacturing.
Center for Information Technology (CITE) Need technology help? Give us a call! IT, CITE, Accessibility, Cascade, CMS, Software, Hardware, technical support, password account
College of Innovation and Design Online degree options perfect for working adults. coid cid tab competency-based competency based
Office of Institutional Effectiveness & Research Ensures student success and promotes strategic planning, including reporting and analyzing institutional data, administering university surveys, and managing assessment and accreditation processes. WebFOCUS Dashboard Data Viewer IPEDS Fact Book Fast Facts Graduation Exit Survey Reporting Assessment Strategic planning Institutional effectiveness Accreditation SACSCOC Program review Program approvals IE plan IE results IE forms Planning for the pride Goals
Degree Program Instructional Design Graduate Certificate This certificate will teach you how to create top-notch curricula. Once you complete this certificate, you will find a career as an instructional designer, training coach and many other related careers.
Inter-Fraternity Council Alpha Gamma Rho Fraternity Delta Tau Delta International Kappa Sigma Pi Kappa Alpha Sigma Chi Delta Sigma Phi
Office of International Programs Contact your friends in the Office of International Programs for help with immigration advising, cultural adjustment and much more.
International Student & Scholar Services ISSS celebrates cultural diversity on campus. Check out their menu of events!
Office of International Student & Scholar Services Office ISSS celebrates cultural diversity on campus. Check out their menu of events! foreign, international office
iThenticate iThenticate helps ensure academic integrity. Faculty can submit theses and dissertations to iThenticate to check citation methods.
KETR Radio Your Station, 88.9 KETR is a 100kW FM radio station featuring news, sports, music and talk for Northeast Texas, operated by Texas A&M University-Commerce.
Degree Program Kinesiology & Sports Studies (BS) What’s even better than living a healthy life? Helping others do the same. Learning how to design exercise programs to optimize the human body for health and performance is what the bachelor’s degree in kinesiology and sports studies with human performance emphasis is all about. This major provides a broad and scientific education about the human body, how it performs during exercise and how it adapts to various training programs. Students will not only learn how to apply these principles to their own exercise regimen but also how to teach others. Become educated on a variety of topics such as exercise physiology, motor learning and biomechanics. Learn from award-winning faculty and instructors as you prepare for graduate school or careers in health-related fields. Take the next step and apply today!
Degree Program Kinesiology & Sports Studies (BS) Teaching Emphasis Physical Education Teacher Education - all-level certification is designed to prepare teachers for early childhood through grade twelve in physical education.
Degree Program Latin American and U.S. Latino Studies Minor The interdisciplinary minor in Latin American & U.S. Latino Studies (LALS) is designed to introduce undergraduates at A&M-Commerce to the histories, cultures, politics, and societies in Latin America, as well as the descendants of Latin Americans who reside in the United States (U.S. Latinos). This minor is open to all majors and requires students to select courses in various departments to maximize their academic understanding of the region. Students who complete LALS coursework will be well-equipped to understand and relate to this vibrant community in the United States and abroad, and LALS minors who self-identify as U.S. Latinos or Latin Americans will gain a more thorough understanding of their own identities and cultural backgrounds.
Degree Program Learning & Technology (BS) The Bachelor of Science in Learning and Technology equips entry-level personnel in the field of eLearning (adult training and development) for practice in public education, private education, business, industry and non-profit organizations. Learning and technology are intertwined to develop next-generation trainers and leaders who implement technology and learning strategies across a variety of curricula and classrooms.
Department of Liberal Studies Build the degree that best suits your interests and ambitions with the Department of Liberal Studies.
Degree Program Liberal Studies (BA/BS) The Liberal Studies program educates the whole person. Learn what it means to become a responsible citizen and globally-minded scholar with our diverse program.
Velma K. Waters Library We love to learn! The library houses a coffee shop, computer lab, print services, private study rooms and…books! Library, Books, Study, gee, waters, coffee, food, research
Lion Card Office Your Lion Card is your photo ID, which gives you access to a variety of locations and amenities on campus. Our best advice: Don’t lose it! Lion Card, ID card
Lion Champions Fund The Lion Champions Fund supports Lion Athletics and helps champion success in the classroom and on the field.
Lion’s Innovation Showcase Where you can exhibit your creativity, innovation and entrepreneurial spirit to the community. Lion's Innovation, Lion's Innovation Showcase, Innovation Showcase, Innovation, Venture, Venture College
Department of Literature and Languages We are a multidisciplinary department with programs in English, linguistics, foreign languages and philosophy. Explore more!
Maestro Research Portal Maestro is an enterprise-wide system that supports researchers and research administration.
Mail Services University mail is collected from U.S. Post Office daily and distributed to departmental mailboxes accordingly. University Business Campus Mail
Degree Program Management (BBA) The BBA in Management degree offers students a solid general business foundation with an emphasis in opportunity recognition and value creation. You will learn to lead people and manage resources. You will also build a repertoire of relevant managerial tools and techniques using case studies and experiential learning methods.
Degree Program Management (MS) This program will help you build a repertoire of relevant managerial tools and techniques using case studies and experiential learning methods.
Map Plan your campus visit or take virtual tour through the Lion life. Campus map, map, tour, interactive
Degree Program Marketing (BBA) The BBA in Marketing program will teach you how organizations plan, organize, administer and achieve their business objectives through effective marketing. You will learn to develop and deploy strategic marketing plans based on creativity and analytics that help drive market success.
Degree Program Marketing (MS) The Master of Science in Marketing program will help you develop the fundamental marketing knowledge and skills associated with market analysis, digital marketing and decision making via cutting-edge analytics. This program will help you expand your professional horizons whether you are an experienced marketing professional or want to add a marketing edge to your portfolio.
Department of Mathematics Our 19 full-time faculty members are dedicated to excellent teaching, quality research and professional service to our students. We can’t wait to learn with you!
Degree Program Mathematics (BS) A degree in mathematics will develop your analytical, statistical and computational skills preparing you for careers in industry, government, business, scientific and technological fields, computing and information science, actuarial work and education.
Degree Program Mathematics (BS) Teaching Emphasis A degree in mathematics along with a teacher certification will allow you to combine your interest and passion for mathematics with influencing and shaping the lives of the next generation.
Degree Program Mathematics (MS) The graduate program in mathematics prepares you for employment as an educator on various levels, additional study at the doctoral level or one of the many non-academic areas in which mathematicians work. Graduate work in mathematics leading to the master's degree is offered with an emphasis in actuarial science, algebra, analysis, biological mathematics, combinatorics, coding theory, differential equations, differential geometry, image analysis and processing, or probability-statistics.
Degree Program Mathematics (MS) Teaching Emphasis The graduate program in mathematics prepares you for employment as an educator on various levels, additional study at the doctoral level or one of the many non-academic areas in which mathematicians work. Graduate work in mathematics leading to the master's degree is offered with an emphasis in actuarial science, algebra, analysis, biological mathematics, combinatorics, coding theory, differential equations, differential geometry, image analysis and processing, or probability-statistics.
A&M Commerce at McKinney (CHEC) Earning a degree just got easier in Collin County. CHEC, McKinney, Collin Higher Education Center, locations, extended university
A&M Commerce at Mesquite Calling all teachers! Our Mesquite Metroplex center offers degrees designed for educators. Mesquite Metroplex Center, Mesquite, locations, Extended University
Degree Program Middle School Teacher (BAIS/BSIS) Grades 4 through 8 mark a period of transition and transformation in young children. Help students develop mental, social, personal and intellectual growth as an upper elementary or middle school teacher. Our bachelor’s degree with middle school certification offers a number of specialties, allowing you to concentrate on specific interests. Learn to design engaging lessons, develop curriculum for diverse students and foster an inclusive learning environment. Work with exemplary faculty as they equip you with subject-matter knowledge and practical skills to excel in the classroom. Enroll today to become part of our nationally-recognized education program
Department of Music Fostering intellectual curiosity, creativity and aesthetic awareness while refining and expanding skill development. Intrigued?
Degree Program Music (BA/BM) The Bachelor of Music (BM) degree designates an emphasis in performance (piano, voice, winds or percussion) and prepares students for careers as professional musicians in an orchestra, opera, ballet, recording studio, private studio or military organization.
Degree Program Music (MM) Students in the Master of Music program choose either an emphasis in performance (applied music or conducting) or music education. The M.M. with an emphasis in performance develops specific music skills and abilities to a high degree in the fields of instrumental and vocal performance and conducting. The M.M. with an emphasis in music education focuses on teacher training at the elementary and secondary levels.
Login to myLeo Where the important stuff lives -- email, registration, grades and more. leo portal, my leo, student email
National Pan-Hellenic Council Alpha Phi Alpha Kappa Alpha Psi Omega Psi Phi Phi Beta Sigma Zeta Phi Beta Delta Sigma Theta Sigma Gamma Rho Alpha Kappa Alpha
New Student Orientation Freshmen-New Student Orientation Freshmen, New Student, New Student Orientation, Freshmen Orientation, Freshmen New Student Orientation
Department of Nursing Nursing is a calling, and we want to help you fulfill it. Learn more about out programs!
Degree Program Nursing (BSN) Pre-Licensure This program is designed for those students wishing to enter the medical field with Bachelor of Science in Nursing degrees, who currently are not registered nurses.
Degree Program Nursing Family Nurse Practitioner (MSN) Nurse Practitioners (NPs) are the providers of choice for millions of Americans due to their track record of providing quality care to persons of all ages and walks of life. NPs bring a unique perspective to healthcare with an emphasis on both caring and curing. NPs diagnose and manage acute, episodic and chronic illness. NPs also focus on health promotion, disease prevention and health education and counseling, helping guide patients and their families to make smarter health and lifestyle choices.
Office of the President The office of University President, Dr. Mark Rudin. President Office, Administration
Online Courses & Degrees We understand that life is busy and a degree isn’t one size fits all -- that’s why we’ve gone online. Online Degree Programs, Online Courses
Degree Program Operational Excellence Graduate Certificate This certificate helps you develop graduate-level working knowledge of important tools (e.g., SAP, Six Sigma and project management software) for successful application in supply chain and project management.
Degree Program Organization Development Graduate Certificate If you are passionate about helping organizations thrive, this certificate is for you. With this certificate, you will find a career in organization development, change management and other careers related to organization development.
Degree Program Organization, Learning & Technology (MS) The Master of Science in Organization, Learning & Technology (OLT) program is a multidisciplinary study of human resource development, organizational leadership, and organizational change in a variety of organizational settings. This program is particularly aimed at students and working professionals aspiring to learn or improve themselves as leaders, trainers, and organizational improvement specialists.
Degree Program Organizational Leadership (BAAS-ORGL) Competency-Based This competency-based program prepares innovative leaders for employment in an increasingly technological and global society. Receive credit for what you know and can do. Competency based, Organizational, Leadership, Innovation and design
Degree Program Paralegal Studies (BA/BS) Paralegal studies provides specialized classes to prepare you to work in law offices as a paralegal. Practicing attorneys teach courses in family law, real estate law, business law, probate, legal research and other areas. This is definitely a growing field with a promising job market.
Parents Association Building and sustaining community among the parents, families, friends, students, faculty, staff and alumni.
Division of Philanthropy and Engagement Oversees university advancement, involving donor relations and university gifts. Alumni Annual Giving advancement
Degree Program Photography (BFA) Students can choose to focus on fine art or commercial photography, the latter encompassing advertising-purposed material.
Degree Program Physics (BA/BS) Explore the world from the atomic to the universal level with a degree in physics. While here, you'll investigate the structure of matter and how it functions across space and time. You'll have the opportunity to study asteroids, white dwarfs and binary stars with our state-of-the-art observatory and research laboratories. Our programs prepare you for graduate work or employment as professional physicists. Utilize your skills in engineering, law and medicine.
Degree Program Physics (BA/BS) Entrepreneurship Emphasis Interested in launching a tech company? This program is designed for you. Our entrepreneurship emphasis partners with the College of Business to give you the tools needed for managing a successful company. You’ll take additional courses in finance and venture capital, project management, and marketing. With this emphasis, you’ll be ready for the business world.
Degree Program Physics (BA/BS) Teaching Emphasis There is a growing need for STEM educators. A degree in physics with a teaching emphasis takes your knowledge to the high-school classroom. You'll take courses in electricity and magnetism, quantum mechanics and modern physics. Our program offers specialized education classes in teaching and learning physics, science and math education theory, and project-based learning in STEM. Once graduated, you'll be certified to teach physics at the secondary level (grades 7-12).
Degree Program Physics (MS) Our program prepares you for industrial employment, college teaching or for further graduate study leading to the Ph.D. degree. We offer a thesis and non-thesis track to suit your academic and professional goals. Choose our teaching emphasis if you want to teach at a community college or dual credit program.
Degree Program Physics (MS) Teaching Emphasis The Master of Science in Physics with a Physics Teaching Emphasis caters to middle and high school physics teachers or for people with a Bachelor’s in a science who wish to begin teaching at the secondary level.
Department of Physics and Astronomy Physics and astronomy explore the behavior and structure of matter and energy at all levels to help describe our world and our universe.
Department of Political Science Our programs are research-intensive, aimed at improving your analytical abilities in addition to developing a greater understanding of the diversity and interconnectedness of our world.
Degree Program Political Science (BA/BS) The undergraduate bachelor’s degree programs in political science are intended to introduce students to key concepts and methods used in the study of politics and government. Through courses in American politics, comparative politics, international relations, political philosophy and public policy, students develop skills in communication, critical and analytical thinking, and a deeper understanding of their personal and social responsibilities.
Degree Program Political Science (MA/MS) Learn what it means to become an engaged citizen. Our master’s degree in Political Science expands your knowledge in government, political theory, foreign policy and international relations.
Degree Program Principal Certification The Principal Certification program is designed for potential principals, assistant principals, administrators of curriculum and instruction, and all school administrators holding a position below that of superintendent.
Print Shop Professional printing, design, and advertising. A resources for students and staff! pride shop printing design
Degree Program Professional Advancement in English Studies Graduate Certificate The Professional Advancement in English Studies Graduate Certificate provides students with the necessary English hours for students who wish to teach dual-credit or college-level courses in a field other than English. Students who pursue this certificate should already have a bachelor's, master's or PHD in a discipline other than English.
Degree Program Professional Counseling Licensure (LPC) This certificate will prepare professionals with the necessary theories, assessments and modalities to counsel, prepare, and implement treatment plans for substance abuse clients, their families, and co-workers.
Promotional Photography Database We keep extensive archives of professional photos for Lions to use for promotional purposes. Access them here.
Degree Program Psychology (BS) Humans are complex beings with complex minds. Learn more about the behavior and cognition of the human mind with a Bachelor of Science in Psychology. Our accomplished faculty and fascinating courses will equip you with valuable tools for success in multiple fields. Dive into psychological development, lifespan development and much more. Apply today!
Degree Program Psychology (MS) Ever wonder why people behave the way they do? What we feel, think and remember begins in the brain. Study the mind in all its fullness and complexity at A&M-Commerce. You’ll learn the latest psychological research and theories that affect our understanding of the world. From eye-tracking to educational psychology and clinical to school psychology, discover the innovative research happening here. Our graduate program prepares you for a wide variety of careers in education, business, government and further graduate work. You can also become a Licensed Psychological Associate through our Applied Psychology track or Licensed Specialist in School Psychology (only for students re-specializing) through our Specialist in School Psychology program.
Department of Psychology and Special Education Get started on the path to a career helping others today.
Degree Program Psychology of Gerontology and Positive Aging Graduate Certificate This certificate will enhance skills for persons working with older adults in business, medical or social settings. You will have a better understanding of physical, psychological and developmental impacts of aging and an enhanced understanding of ethical principles of dealing with potentially vulnerable population.
Degree Program Public Health (BSPH) Public health is designed to prepare students for the CHES exam and careers in biostatistics, epidemiology and environmental health.
Degree Program Public Health (MPH) The masters of Public Health program provides advanced studies in public health (health behavior, epidemiology, policy and management, environmental health and biostatistics).
Degree Program Public History Graduate Certificate This certificate develops specific skills related to public history among students who are interested in public history and practitioners who are already in the field. The practical, theoretical, and analytical training provided in the certificate program will enhance your ability to compete for jobs in museums, historical societies, cultural resource centers, parks, and historic preservation.
Purchasing Information and contacts involving university-approved purchases Procurement Vendor Purchasing Card Shipping Receiving HUB
Quality Enhancement Plan Learn about our principles and objectives for growth and student success as well as annual university reports. quality enhancement plan, annual report, qep annual report
Rayburn Student Center The Student Center is the hub of campus life, from dining and entertainment to meeting and conference space. Learn more! Student Organizations Pride Shop Student Activities Campus Activities Board Student Government Association
Degree Program Reading (MA/MED/MS) The major in reading prepares graduates for careers in both public and private educational settings in which the primary focus is to address the needs of students in the context of reading
Degree Program Reading Specialist Certificate Many children struggle with reading at a basic level and often need individualized instruction. You can help improve their literacy skills by becoming a licensed Reading Specialist. Your role includes assessing, diagnosing and instructing students in their reading and writing skills. Reading Specialists work alongside K-12 educators and often provide one-on-one instruction for students struggling in their reading and writing comprehension. You’ll develop individualized plans for addressing their reading difficulties. Offered as part of the master’s in reading program, you can earn your certificate in no time.
Records & Statistics The University Police Department publishes a press log each day. This log is available to members of the press and public. This log identifies the type, location and time of each criminal incident reported. Crime report, Incidents, UPD, University Police
Office of the Registrar Keeper of student academic records, available for assistance with registration, transcript requests, enrollment verification, grading and graduation. Registrar, Office of Registrar, Registration, Transcripts, Graduation, academic records
Department of Residential Living & Learning There’s no place like home! Browse our housing facilities and requirements. Housing, On-Campus, Off Campus, Residential living, accommodation, meal plans
Safe Spaces Ally Project This foundation supports the Safe Spaces national training program that is designed to foster an environment of respect and understanding for all regardless of sexual orientation or gender identification. LGBTQ, Safe Space, ally
Degree Program School Librarian Certification Discover ways of integrating literacy and technology into the classroom. Offered fully online, our 21-hour certification prepares you to work as a School Librarian or Library Media Specialist in Texas. Learn the basic skills in cataloging, classification, referencing and information organization for print and non-print sources. Explore literature for children and young adults, curate digital and print materials, and gain familiarity in a practicum with policies and procedures in school library administration. Interested in earning your master’s degree? We also offer a 36-hour online master’s in Educational Technology Library Science.
College of Science and Engineering Interested in the way things around you work? Check out our programs! cose
Degree Program Secondary Education (MED/MS) Students who are interested in developing depth and breadth of expertise in curriculum and instructional leadership at the secondary school level should choose the major in secondary education. The secondary education curriculum will equip graduates with proficiency in designing and conducting action research to improve classroom and school practices, the design, implementation and evaluation of secondary school curriculum, the selection of teaching models to address the learning and achievement of secondary school students, and the selection and design of curriculum and instruction reflecting philosophical systems in the middle school and high school environments.
Department of Social Work Develop knowledge and skills to help people solve problems across all system levels.
Degree Program Social Work (BSW) Our faculty will provide you with the vast knowledge of expertise, research and practice experience in the social work field including areas of social welfare, social justice and diversity. You will have an opportunity to take a variety of courses from instructors who have a strong desire and commitment to social work education and further advancement of the social work profession.
Degree Program Social Work (MSW) Our advanced generalist perspective provides an overall understanding of the many areas of social work and prepares you for LMSW practice. Our selection of courses is eclectic and student centered, and our field education program works with hundreds of agencies in a variety of social work settings. Degree programs are flexible with full-time and part-time options available ensuring that you can progress at your own pace that best suits your lifestyle.
Degree Program Sociology (BA/BS) Sociology (BS) develops your cultural awareness and understanding of human behavior, organizational dynamics, social and people skills, cultural diversity and analytical skills.
Degree Program Sociology (MS) The Master's in Sociology at A&M-Commerce is designed to meet the needs of those pursuing public service careers, community college teaching opportunities, careers in research, administrative careers in both the public and private sectors, as well as preparing students for more advanced graduate work in sociology.
Department of Sociology & Criminal Justice A major in sociology or criminal justice will prepare you to enter careers in business, education, government, industry and some social services.
Degree Program Spanish (BA) The undergraduate Spanish program is dedicated to the study of languages and literatures of Latin America, Spain and the United States. The department offers a wide range and variety of courses, including beginners, intermediate and advanced courses in Spanish language and culture as well as courses designed for heritage speakers and native speakers.
Degree Program Spanish (BA) Teaching Emphasis Our program encourages and equips Spanish educators. No matter your proficiency level, we have language courses designed for you. You'll study the history, politics, social structures and traditions of Spain and Latin America. Our combined Spanish and teaching program prepares you for the high school classroom. You'll take courses in methods for teaching Spanish, issues in Spanish literature and culture, and Hispanic linguistics. After graduating, you'll be certified to teach Spanish at the secondary level (grades 7-12).
Degree Program Spanish (MA) The main goals of this degree program are to prepare Spanish language professionals who will become language instructors in high schools and/or community colleges, and to provide a strong foundation in Spanish literature and linguistics for those interested in pursuing a PhD in the areas of Spanish literature or Hispanic linguistics. Some of the classes we offer include: foreign language methodology, advanced writing, children’s literature, and Spanish and Latin American literature and cinema.
Degree Program Special Education (BS) The Department of Psychology and Special Education offers an all-level generic special education certification program as a major area for the Bachelor of Science degree in Interdisciplinary Studies (BSIS). A graduate with all-level Generic Special Education certification should possess the following competencies: knowledge of disabling conditions; knowledge of professional roles, strategies for promoting learning and development; and techniques to promote achievement in English language arts, reading and math.
Degree Program Special Education (MED/MS) Exceptional learners need your support and advocacy. You can make this happen through our Special Education program. At A&M-Commerce, we turn your passion for teaching into a reality. Our master’s degree prepares you for a rewarding career as an educator or as an educational diagnostician. You’ll learn the characteristics of mild to severe disabilities, application of assessments and development of diverse learners. Gain the opportunity to interact first-hand with assistive technologies that you’ll use in the classroom. You can make a difference in the lives of exceptional learners. Are you ready to respond to the call?
Degree Program Specialist in School Psychology (SSP) Local students need your guidance and support. Help educators create a safe, welcoming and inclusive learning environment by earning your specialist degree in School Psychology. You’ll work alongside teachers, administrators, students and their families as you promote mental health within the school district. Our program is consistent with the requirements published by the Texas State Board of Examiners of Psychologists for the Licensed Specialist in School Psychology (LSSP) and is fully approved by the National Association of School Psychologists (NASP). Help children and youth succeed academically, socially, behaviorally and emotionally. Join our program today!
Office of Sponsored Programs Assists faculty and staff in identifying and applying for external funding opportunities.
Degree Program Sport & Recreation Management (BS) Sport and recreation management is designed to prepare future administrators, event coordinators and marketers for a career in the sport and recreation industry.
Degree Program Sports Coaching Graduate Certificate Are you a current or aspiring coach? Do you want to positively impact your athletes? Expand your knowledge and skills with our Sports Coaching Graduate Certificate. This online program covers all four areas of coaching: physical, psychological, tactical and technical. The mix of theory and practice will give you the ability to impact your athletes’ mental and physical performance. The content of the courses is designed to help you apply your knowledge to a variety of sports and activities.
Student Concerns Have a concern you want to discuss? Your voice matters! Student Concerns, UPD, police, issues
Student Government Student Government communicates with faculty and administration on behalf of students. Find a meeting or learn how to join here!
Student Health Services Feeling a little under the weather? Visit our on-campus practice and get on the road to recovery. Services Emergencies Appointment After Hour Service Area Clinics
Student Jobs & Careers We’re here to help you prepare for your next steps after graduation. Career Development, Handshake, Resume, Hiring, Networking, Interviews
Office of Student Rights & Responsibilities Our goal is to educate the campus community on standards for student conduct and to foster a community of civility, integrity, dignity, respect for others and appreciation for diversity.
Degree Program Studies in Children’s & Adolescent Literature & Culture Graduate Certificate Rediscover your love for children’s and adolescent literature. From fairytales to graphic novels, these literary works speak to all ages. Our 15-hour graduate certificate prepares you to teach the cultural, ideological and historical nature of children’s and adolescent literature in the primary, secondary and collegiate setting. You can earn this certificate individually or as part of a master’s degree.
Degree Program Studio Art (BFA) Through this degree you will become trained in the discipline of history. Students will gain knowledge of the human past, practice historical research and writing, and learn to analyze and interpret evidence and historical interpretations. This program orients these skills toward the knowledge needed to teach history at the 7-12 grade levels.
Degree Program Studio Art (BFA) Teaching Emphasis This degree plan is ideal for art-focused students who wish to take their skillset into the classroom to educate others.
Summer Music Camps Summer Camps Leadership Drum Major flute symposium percussion drum line drumline marching band marchingband director highschool high school
Degree Program Superintendent Certification The Superintendent Certification program will equip you for key administrative roles. The program includes a practicum where you will put theory into practice as you work closely with your mentor/site supervisor in active leadership situations.
Degree Program Supervision, Curriculum & Instruction (EDD) This degree prepares graduate students for careers in K-12 public and private schools, regional educational training facilities, college and university settings, and research and development centers. A graduate with the Doctor of Education degree should possess competencies in research methods, statistics, curriculum, instructional design, learning, instructional strategies and effective teaching.
Degree Program Talent Development Graduate Certificate This certificate prepares you to train employees to be leaders in the workplace. With this certificate you will be able to find careers in and related to human resource development.
Degree Program Tax Accounting Graduate Certificate This certificate is a 12 semester hour (4 course) program. The certificate may be applied to the Master of Science in Accounting (MSA) program with two of the courses ACCT 538 & ACCT 540 required as part of the core and advanced core.
Degree Program Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL) Graduate Certificate This certificate is ideal for students who either already hold a completed graduate degree or are actively in the process of earning a graduate degree and wish to earn this certificate in conjunction with their degree. In addition to the enhanced professional status that the Certificate in the Teaching of English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL) brings, this Certificate will enable the holder to meet the 18-hour SACS requirement to teach at the College level.
Degree Program Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL) Minor Become specialized in bilingual education. You'll the foundation of bilingual/ESL education and how to assess, create and deliver specialized content for bilingual students. It is highly recommended for you to know Spanish.
Degree Program Teaching History Graduate Certificate Local school districts continue to expand their offerings of early college and dual credit history courses. There is a growing need for qualified teachers who can meet this need. You can become a certified early college or dual credit instructor with our Teaching History graduate certificate.
Degree Program Technology Management (BS) The Technology Management degree integrates technology, applied engineering, project management, cost engineering, construction and industrial management, and leadership. As a technology management graduate, you will be prepared to problem solve, manage a construction and/or industrial work environment, optimize processes, ensure a safe workplace, and manage a technological project.
Degree Program Technology Management (MS) The graduate program in technology management is a fully online program designed to prepare you for career advancement and career enhancement in domestic and global technology-intensive businesses and industrial enterprises. The program focuses on leadership, organizational strategies, knowledge management, management of technology, applied research and project management.
Testing Center SAT Admissions Exam Placement Graduate Professional Credit by Exam Proctoring Services Nursing Exams
Department of Theatre Our programs allow you to take center stage in planning your future and to focus on learning the parts of theatre production that interest you most.
Degree Program Theatre (BA/BS) Our program equips you with acting techniques and skills, theatrical presentation, direction, production and management of theatre operations and insight on modern theatre and theatre of varying cultures which will prepare you for careers in acting, design, technology management, production, theatre management, education and sound management.
Degree Program Theatre (BA/BS) Teaching Emphasis Our program equips you with the acting, directing and production skills needed for the high school classroom. You'll take courses in stage management, theatre operations, costume design and lighting. Gain insight into modern theatre and theatre of varying cultures through our course offerings. Our combined theatre and education program prepares you for a career in teaching. You'll take courses in pedagogy, learning processes and development, and classroom management. After completing a teaching residency, you'll be certified to teach theatrical arts at the secondary level (grades 7-12).
Degree Program Theatre (MA/MS) Students can focus on the following topics: acting, lighting, modern theatre, theatre history, theatrical design, directing, management, playwriting, theatre pedagogy and theory. We provide our students with an easy admission process, access to scholarships and graduate assistantships, individualized attention from award-winning faculty and a flexible combination of online and face-to-face instruction. A&M-Commerce is the only A&M System university that offers this degree.
Thesis & Dissertation Services Thesis & Dissertation Services provides support, resources and oversight as you work on your research project.
Training & Development Information on faculty and staff trainings and professional development workshops
Trio Discover educational opportunities and access for low-income and first-generation students, and students with disabilities.
University Councils and Committees A comprehensive list of standing university councils and administrative committees University Councils Committees, Administration
University Organizational Charts View how our administrative offices, councils and committees are organized. Administration, University Organizational Charts
University Police They keep us safe, day and night. Learn about our UPD here. UPD, University Police, Law
Venture College We're bringing our business plans to life, one venture at a time. The Aurora Initiative, venture, college, Lion's Innovation Showcase
Veterans and Military You served. You sacrificed. For that, we thank you. Investigate benefits, services and programs for veterans. Veterans, Military, Soldier, Sailor, Airmen, Marine
Degree Program Visual Communication (BFA), Art Direction Emphasis The concentration in Art Direction prepares students for professional positions as creative team leaders who target specific market audiences and produce client branding, single ads or campaigns in print, broadcast and interactive media.
Degree Program Visual Communication (BFA), Design Emphasis The concentration in Design focuses on an applied conceptual skill set through the development and application of the creative process, conceptual thinking, and visual problem-solving.
Degree Program Visual Communication (BFA), New Media Emphasis The concentration in New Media pairs creative thinking and refined design skills with computer-based multimedia and motion design.
What Truth Sounds Like Hear leading voices in multiple disciplines on systemic racism, trauma in the African American community, and the call for for equity.
Degree Program Wildlife & Conservation Science (BS) This program is designed for students interested in wildlife management, ecology or the preservation of biodiversity.
Degree Program Wildlife & Conservation Science (BS) Biology Track This program is for students interested in wildlife management, ecology or the preservation of biodiversity. Designed around the requirements established by The Wildlife Society and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, upon completion of this program you will be able to pursue a variety of careers in fields such as wildlife ecology, game managers, wildlife biologists, park rangers and park managers.
Degree Programs Women’s & Gender Studies Graduate Certificate and Minor The Graduate Minor and Graduate Certificate in Gender Studies provide the opportunity for students to focus on the interdisciplinary study of issues that shape and define our understandings of masculinity, femininity and sexuality. Gender, Graduate Certificate, Minor
Degree Program World History Graduate Certificate This graduate certificate program provides training for the study of global connections and cultures. You can complete the certificate independently or as part of your graduate degree.
Writing Center Become a stronger writer with help from the knowledgeable tutoring staff at the Writing Center tutoring essay language help