Alumni Success

East Texas A&M Alumnus Named Dean of TJC North
Adam Palacios, a graduate of East Texas A&M University, has been named dean of Tyler Junior College North (TJC North) in Lindale.

World-Renowned Artist & Alum’s Artwork Featured in Texas Art Museum
Artwork by Lion Alumna Robyn O'Neil was recently acquired for display by the McNay Art Museum in San Antonio, Texas.

Lion Alum Starring as Titular Character in Shakespeare Dallas’ Production of ‘Othello’
Alum Henry Okigbo is leading the cast of Shakespeare Dallas' latest production of "Othello," which is currently running until July 20.

Recent ETAMU Music Graduate Wins National Competition
East Texas A&M University alum and percussionist DJ Talbot recently took first place at the Black Swamp Percussion Solo & Ensemble Showcase.

East Texas A&M Alumnus Named Seguin ISD Superintendent
Dr. Jack Lee, a 2020 graduate of East Texas A&M University’s Ed.D. in Educational Administration program, has been named the lone finalist for superintendent of Seguin ISD.

Lion Alumna Featured in Dallas Observer for Former Athlete Advocacy
The Dallas Observer newspaper recently published a profile on East Texas A&M University alumna Acheil Tac.

A Lambskin Legacy: What a 19th-Century Diploma Reveals About East Texas A&M’s Early Days
An alumnus recently discovered a rare diploma from 1897 and brought it back to East Texas A&M. The artifact provides a fascinating glimpse into the earliest days of our university.

Paris Police Department Swears in East Texas A&M Graduate
East Texas A&M University’s Law Enforcement Training Academy (AMLETA) celebrates another successful graduate as Austin Garrison was sworn in as a new officer with the Paris Police Department.

Photography Alum and National Academy Director Publishes New Book
A Lion Alum recently published a book examining the dynamic relationship between contemporary art and scientific inquiry.

ETAMU Adjunct Professor Desiree Stephens Featured in Voyage Dallas Interview
Dr. Desiree Stephens, adjunct professor of counseling at East Texas A&M University, was recently featured in Voyage Dallas, a regional publication known for spotlighting the stories of local entrepreneurs, creatives and community leaders.

Alum to Lead Prestigious Percussion Research Center
ETAMU alum Dr. Andrew Veit was recently named the new managing director for the Wells-Rapp Center for Mallet Percussion Research at Kutztown University.

East Texas A&M Alum Lands Position Working For U.S. Congress
East Texas A&M University alum Emau Stephen Petaia has been appointed to the position of digital engagement manager for United States Congresswoman Aumua Amata Coleman Radewagen.

East Texas A&M Alum Named Plano ISD Principal
Jean Laswell, a 2007 graduate from East Texas A&M University, has been named the first-ever principal of the newly established Plano ISD Career and Technical Education (CTE) Center.

Outstanding Alumni Honored at East Texas A&M Awards Gala
The Alumni Association hosted the 2025 Alumni Awards Gala on April 26 to honor six exceptional Lions whose lives reflect a deep commitment to service, leadership and the university community.

Alum Named Southlake Fire Chief
A Lion alum with more than 30 years of experience in fire and emergency medical services was recently appointed to lead the Southlake, Texas Fire Department.

ETAMU Alum Celebrates 101st Birthday
Alum J.B. McNatt is a WWII veteran and businessman who recently celebrated his 101st birthday April 18, 2025.

East Texas A&M Alum Kraig Knight Named EVP of Global Data Center Operations at Goodman Group
Goodman Group owns, develops, and manages logistics properties and data centers in major international cities.

Alum, Former Coach Tabbed to Lead West Virginia Men’s Basketball Program
Lion alum and former assistant basketball coach Ross Hodge was recently announced as the new head coach of the West Virginia University Men's Basketball team.

Alumna and ‘Days of Our Lives’ Actress’ Podcast Nominated for Webby Award
A Lion alumna who starred in the long-running soap opera "Days of Our Lives" currently hosts a podcast that was recently nominated for a Webby Award by the International Academy of Digital Arts and Sciences.

Principal of the Year Awarded to ETAMU Alum
Alumna Dr. Jericah Jackson is the Secondary Principal of the Year in Aldine ISD for her outstanding work.