2022 Distinguished Educators of the Year
2022 Honorees
Mel Basham - President, Texas Art Education Association (TAEA)
Rhoda Mason - Executive Director of Elementary Schools, Fort Bend ISD
Dominique Odom - Teacher, Huntsville ISD
Dr. Alton Smith - Professor, Lone Star College
Kelsey Amaya
Kelsey Amaya started her teaching career in Klein ISD as a fifth grade ELA teacher after her graduation from the College of Education. Since that point, she has made a lasting impact on her students, colleagues, and Klein ISD. Her energy, kindness, and innovation enable her to make a difference in the lives of her students. The College of Education is honored to give Mrs. Kelsey Amaya the Distinguished Educator of the Year award.
Mel Basham
Mel Basham has gone above and beyond in her dedication to art education. Ms. Basham earned her B.F.A. in Studio Art and teaching certification from SHSU. Her teaching philosophy helped her be successful in the classroom and in the creation and development of programs. The College of Education is honored to name Ms. Mel Basham as Distinguished Educator of the Year.
Rhonda Mason
Rhonda Mason’s love for educational leadership and community service goes back to her father and grandmother. Mrs. Mason graduated with her bachelor’s degree from Sam Houston State and is now pursuing her doctoral degree in Educational Leadership. It is with great honor that the College of Education awards Mrs. Rhonda Mason as Distinguished Educator of the Year.
Dominique Odom
Dominique Odom teaches third grade math and science at Stewart Elementary in Huntsville ISD. She graduated from SHSU with her bachelor’s in Education. Throughout her teaching career, Mrs. Odom has made an impact for her students, colleagues, and her district. It is with great honor that the College of Education awards Distinguished Educator of the Year to Mrs. Dominique Odom.
Dr. Alton Smith
Not every teaching career starts right out of college. In Dr. Alton Smith’s case, it started when he left his job Human Resources at Shell Oil Company to become a Special Education teacher in Goose Creek ISD. He served as a teacher, principal, and adjunct professor and truly made an impact in each role. The College of Education is honored to give the Distinguished Educator of the Year award to Dr. Alton Smith.