Dr. LaVelle Hendricks, professor of counseling at East Texas A&M University, has been named the first recipient of the 2026 Peter Bell Premier Addictions Educator of the Year Award by the Museum of African American Addictions, Treatment and Recovery.

The national award recognizes outstanding leadership in addiction education, culturally responsive counseling, and community impact. Named in honor of Peter Bell, a prominent addictions educator during the height of the crack cocaine crisis in the 1980s and 90s, the award highlights professionals who are shaping the next generation of counselors and addressing substance use disorders in meaningful ways.

For students considering a career in counseling, Hendricks' work reflects the real-world impact of the profession. At East Texas A&M, he teaches and mentors students preparing for careers in clinical mental health counseling, school counseling and chemical dependency counseling. His scholarly work includes numerous journal articles and books, including “History of Crack Cocaine in America,” and his work extends beyond the classroom into communities across Texas.

“Receiving the Educator of the Year Award is an honor,” Hendricks said. “This award reflects the many lives touched in the classrooms at East Texas A&M University. I'm deeply humbled by this expression from the National Museum of African American Addiction, Treatment, and Recovery.”

The award comes at a time when communities nationwide continue to face significant challenges related to opioid overdoses, alcohol-related deaths, and substance misuse among youth. Hendricks' focus on culturally responsive counseling and community engagement can help East Texas A&M students to meet those challenges with competence and compassion.

For prospective students, the recognition underscores the strength of East Texas A&M's Department of Counseling, with opportunities to learn from nationally recognized faculty committed to making a difference in the field of addiction treatment and recovery.