Dr. LaVelle Hendricks, professor of counseling at East Texas A&M University, has been named a 2026 Authors’ Park Brick Recipient by the Commerce Public Library, recognizing his contributions as an author, educator and community leader. A commemorative brick bearing his name was installed in Authors’ Park, located adjacent to the library in downtown Commerce.

Authors’ Park celebrates local writers and artists whose work has enriched the creative and cultural life of Commerce and the surrounding area. Recipients are selected by the Friends of the Commerce Public Library Board.

“Authors' Park celebrates the local writers and artists who help shape our community through creativity, learning and storytelling,” said Library Director Ashley Bryan. “Dr. Hendricks is a wonderful example of that spirit, and we are proud to recognize his contributions in a space dedicated to literacy and local voices.”

Hendricks has authored and coauthored numerous books spanning leadership, counseling, higher education and personal growth. Among his most notable works are the children’s books “Survival: Even After the Hurts,” “Stan the Can Has No Magic,” and “Bouncy Finds His Bounce: A Story About the Power of Believing in Yourself.”

Many of Hendricks' publications were written with frequent collaborator and fellow ETAMU faculty member Dr. Dimitra Smith, assistant professor of higher education and learning technologies.

“It is a tremendous honor to be recognized alongside individuals who have helped inspire a love of reading and storytelling in our community,” Hendricks said. “If my books encourage even one child or family to find hope, healing or a new perspective, then I feel I’ve accomplished something meaningful.”

As a faculty member in the Department of Counseling, Hendricks teaches future counselors while continuing to write books that explore resilience, compassion and the challenges people face throughout life.