by Gabriela Garcia

Baylor School of Education (SOE) recognized nine new or soon-to-be graduates as outstanding students at the 40th annual Recognition Banquet on May 15, 2025. Seniors were honored for their excellence in academics and fieldwork in education programs and their readiness to impact the world.

Baylor SOE senior award recipients (biographies below) for 2025 are:

• Navy Casady – EDICUT Preservice Educator of the Year Award
• Kaitlyn Genzer – Dolores Coker Phi Delta Kappa Award: Outstanding Student in Education
• Samantha Jones – Lorena B. Stretch Award: Outstanding Student in Elementary Education
• Will McNierney – M. L. Goetting Award: Outstanding Student in Secondary Education
• Amy Heick – Outstanding Student in Middle Grades Education
• Laura Workman – Outstanding Student in EC-12 Special Education
• Anna Garner – Outstanding Student in Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT)
• Ellie Ramsey – Outstanding Student in English as a Second Language (ESL)
• Audrey Nolen – Outstanding Student in Gifted and Talented Education

EDICUT Preservice Educator of the Year Award

Navy Casady, an elementary education major from Los Angeles, Calif., and cum laude BSEd graduate, received the 2025 EDICUT Preservice Educator of the Year Award. Known as the “Dean’s Award,” the honor is presented at each private university education program in Texas by the Education Deans of Independent Colleges and Universities of Texas (EDICUT).

During her senior year, Casady was a student teacher at La Vega Elementary in La Vega ISD, serving in a paid residency in the second-grade classrooms of Erica Abel (math) and Alyssa Gorby (ELAR). Her SOE intern supervisor was Lea Kee.

Casady said she chose teaching because, “I want to become the teacher I always wanted but never had.” She stated that she would not be the person she is today without Baylor University and the School of Education.

Mentor teacher Erica Abel said that Casady’s passion for teaching and commitment to creating a supportive and inclusive learning environment set her apart. “She is an outstanding role model for her students, and her enthusiasm and energy are contagious,” she said.

Intern supervisor Lea Kee said Casady is a skilled young teacher with remarkable planning and organizational skills. “She is student focused, detail-oriented, and strives to plan and deliver the best lessons possible,” she said.

While at Baylor, Casady served as a student ambassador for the SOE Student Advisory Council, where she helped plan the SOE’s first civil discourse event. She also worked with Dr. Karon LeCompte in the iEngage Summer Civics Institute as a counselor. In her spare time, Casady tutors a few of her neighbor’s children in the South Waco Elementary community.

One of Casady’s favorite teaching memories was “when my students cried when they learned I would be teaching in another district next year, which meant they couldn’t have me as a teacher again.” She said this memory showed her how far she’s come as a teacher.

Casady will be the sixth-grade math teacher at Rapoport Academy: Quinn Middle School in Waco, Texas.

Dolores Coker Phi Delta Kappa Award: Outstanding Student in Education

Kaitlyn Genzer, an all-level special education major from Colleyville, Texas, and summa cum laude BSEd graduate, received the 2025 Delores Coker Phi Delta Kappa Award for Outstanding Student in Education. Phi Delta Kappa is a professional education association for educators around the world, and Dr. Coker was a longtime faculty member in Baylor SOE.

Genzer was a student teaching intern at Park Hill Elementary in Midway ISD, serving in the K-5 Dyslexia Intervention classroom of Frederick Herrera, with Lisa Plemons and Lindy Ermoian as her SOE intern supervisors.

Genzer said she is passionate about advocating for every student so they can reach their full potential. “I want to be an educator to support students with dyslexia, like me, and ensure they feel seen and capable,” she said.

Mentor teacher Frederick Herrera said, “She excels in building positive relationships within the classroom, fostering a collaborative and supportive environment. Her natural ability to engage with others ensures that students feel valued and understood, enhancing their educational experience.”

Lisa Plemons, intern supervisor, said Genzer works with her students in a calm and confident manner, making sure to focus on the whole child and not just their reading ability. “She’s the knowledgeable, focused, driven teacher that I would want to teach with or have working with my grandchildren.”

At Baylor, Genzer served on the Student Advisory Council as a student ambassador. She was a member Kappa Alpha Theta and of Baylor honor societies Kappa Delta Pi, Alpha Lambda Delta, and Delta Alpha Pi, along with being a Provost’s Scholar.

Genzer will be teaching in Denison ISD as a Dyslexia teacher for K-4.

Lorena B. Stretch Award: Outstanding Student in Elementary Education

Samantha Jones, an elementary education major with ESL certification from Mammoth Lakes, Calif., and summa cum laude BSEd graduate, received the 2025 Lorena B. Stretch Award for Outstanding Student in Elementary Education. The award’s namesake, Dr. Lorena Stretch, was dean of the Baylor School of Education from 1935-1957, the school’s longest serving dean.

Jones was a student teaching intern in the kindergarten classroom of Kristi Fajardo at Spring Valley Elementary School in Midway ISD. Her intern supervisor was Melissa Cates.

Jones said she chose teaching because, “I believe creating a safe and loving environment while holding students to high standards will spark students’ passions and open doors for them to change the world.”

Mentor teacher Kristi Fajardo said, “One of Samantha’s greatest strengths is her ability to build strong, trusting relationships with students. She has a warm, patient demeanor that makes every child feel valued and understood.”

Intern supervisor Melissa Cates said, “With each lesson, Sami is collaborating with her peers, professors, and cooperating teachers in meaningful ways to learn, prepare, and deliver effective and engaging instruction.”

At Baylor, Jones was a member of Baylor honor societies Kappa Delta Pi and Alpha Lambda Delta. She was also a member of Chi Omega where she volunteered for the Make-A-Wish Foundation.

Jones will be teaching fourth-grade English, language arts, and reading along with social studies at Spring Valley Elementary School in Waco, Texas.

M.L. Goetting Award: Outstanding Student in Secondary Education

Will McNierney, a secondary social studies major from San Antonio and magna cum laude BSEd graduate, received the 2025 M.L. Goetting Award for Outstanding Student in Secondary Education. The award is named after Dr. M.L. Goetting, dean of the School of Education from 1957–1971.

McNierney was a student teaching intern at University High School in Waco ISD, serving in the 12^th grade AP Government, AP Economics, and On-level Government classes of Nicholas Davoust. His intern supervisor was Alexis Hooker.

McNierney said he dreamed of being a teacher because his teachers were inspirations who helped him develop a love of learning and history. “I want to be able to share that experience with my future students to help them excel,” he said.

Mentor teacher Nicholas Davoust said McNierney naturally relates to the students. “Will’s highly organized tendencies have been significantly helpful to me this year. The written work he does — in lessons plans and correspondence — is of the highest quality,” he said.

Intern supervisor Alexis Hooker said that McNierney embodies the mission of the Baylor University School of Education to develop innovative educational leaders. “He not only cares about student success on assessments but also works passionately to ensure content is relatable and that students develop critical thinking skills,” she said. “He affirms and celebrates their efforts both in academics and beyond.”

At Baylor, McNierney was a six-time Dean’s List honoree and member of the Student Advisory Council. He was also a member of Baylor honor societies Kappa Delta Pi and Eta Sigma Phi.

McNierney served as the President of Baylor University Golden Wave Band where he received the President’s Award for Leadership.

He will be staying at Baylor this upcoming year to get his master’s degree in curriculum and instruction.

Outstanding Student in Middle Grades Education

Amy Heick, middle-grades mathematics major from Fort Worth and magna cum laude BSEd graduate, received the 2025 Outstanding Student in Middle Grades Education Award.

Heick was a student teaching intern at Robinson Intermediate School in the sixth-grade math classrooms of Rachel Rudloff, with intern supervisor Dr. Stacey Voigt.

Heick said she chose teaching because most students have a negative perception of math, and she wants to change that by making strong connections and lesson plans that build confidence in her students. “I teach so I can see the proud smiles on my students’ faces when they finally master a difficult concept they have been working hard to understand,” Heick said.

Mentor teacher Rachel Rudloff said, “Amy has shown a willingness to learn and grow as an educator during her time in the classroom. She has actively engaged with students, collaborated with colleagues, and reflected on her teaching practices to improve her instructional skills.”

Intern supervisor Dr. Stacey Voight said Heick’s greatest attribute is her ability to establish rapport with students. “She takes a genuine interest in every student and makes each one feel valued,” she said.

Heick was a six-time Dean’s List honoree and a member of Alpha Lambda Delta Honor Society. She was also a student ambassador for the Student Activities Council and the Student Involvement Specialist’s Print Publicity Manager during her time at Baylor.

“I couldn’t have made it through this year without Dr. Voigt and my cohort. They have always been there for me,” Heick said. “Teaching is never an easy thing, but when you have a strong community and you build relationships it because so much easier.”

Heick will be teaching math at Stripling Middle School in Fort Worth ISD.

Outstanding Student in EC-12 Special Education

Laura Workman, all-level special education major from Phnom Penh, Cambodia, and summa cum laude BSEd graduate, received the Outstanding Student in EC-12 Special Education award.

Workman was a student teacher serving in a paid residency at Robinson Intermediate School in the fifth-grade inclusion classroom of Lisa Houle. Her intern supervisor was Lisa Plemons.

Workman said she chose a career in education because, “Where I grew up overseas, education was valued, but special education was not. I think every student deserves equal access to education, and if that means providing extra support and accommodation, that is okay.”

Mentor teacher Lisa Houle said it was evident that Workman possesses a remarkable work ethic. “She consistently goes above and beyond her responsibilities, demonstrating a strong sense of initiative,” Houle said.

Lisa Plemons, intern supervisor, said Workman is an extremely hard worker who meets or exceeds expectations from her district, mentor teacher, and coursework. “When working with students, Laura focuses on building relationships quickly. She responds to her students calmly, confidently, and with high expectations.” Plemons said.

Workman said she is thankful for her special education cohort and the support from Lisa Plemons. “It has been such an amazing experience,” she said.

At Baylor, Workman was a member of the Alpha Lambda Delta and Kappa Delta Pi honor societies.  She was also a six-time Dean’s List honoree.

Workman will be teaching in Colombus, Ohio, supporting students with emotional disturbance in an inclusion role.

Outstanding Student in Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT)

Anna Garner, secondary mathematics major from Waco, received the 2025 Outstanding Student in Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT) award.

Garner was a student teaching intern at Midway High School, teaching sophomores and juniors in the Algebra 2 classrooms of Joshua Dietert; her intern supervisor was Margeaux Smith.

Garner said her dream of becoming a math teacher started because she loves math and knows that not all students feel the same way. “I want to help them discover the beauty and fun that math can be,” she said.

Mentor teacher Joshua Dietert, a 2016 Baylor BSEd graduate who received the Goetting Award, said, “Her lesson planning is well thought out, creative, and student-centered, ensuring that all students – regardless of background – are given the opportunities to succeed. She consistently adapts instruction to meet the needs of diverse learners while maintaining high standards of academic growth.”

Margeaux Smith, intern supervisor, said it was a privilege to witness Garner’s love for mathematics, passion for teaching, and dedication to fostering her students’ confidence in their mathematical abilities and themselves. “She advocates for her students by incorporating their interests and engagement levels into her planning, providing opportunities for them to collaborate and develop personal skills,” Smith said.

Garner is a member of Baylor’s National Council of Teachers of Mathematics and a student athlete for Baylor’s cross country and track and field teams.

Garner is a 2020 Baylor graduate with a BS in math and will graduate this August with the MAT and plans to teach in the Waco area.

Outstanding Student in English as a Second Language (ESL)

Ellie Ramsey, elementary education major with ESL certification from Austin and cum laude BSEd graduate, received the Outstanding Student in English as a Second Language (ESL) award.

Ramsey was a student teaching intern at Bell’s Hill Elementary in Waco ISD, instructing in the third-grade classroom of Shelby Killen; her intern supervisor was Dr. Jill Underwood.

Ramsey said she wants to teach not only because it is her passion, but because she had amazing teachers growing up. “I hope I can be a teacher that my students look up to, just like my teachers were for me,” she said.

Jill Underwood, intern supervisor, said Ramsey possesses a rare combination of enthusiasm, intellect, and dedication to the craft of teaching. “One of Ellie’s most outstanding qualities is her adaptability,” she said. “Whether faced with a new curriculum, diverse student needs, or unexpected challenges, Ellie approaches every situation with a growth mindset, always seeking solutions and learning from experiences.”

Mentor teacher Shelby Killen said Ramsey establishes incredible connections with her students. “She builds relationships based on trust and respect, allowing her students to thrive academically and emotionally under her guidance,” Killen said.

Ramsey said the Baylor School of Education has been her home for the last four years, and all her professors have poured into her and helped her succeed. “Baylor SOE has made my love for teaching even bigger, and I feel so prepared for my first year of teaching because of this program and its community,” she said.

Ramsey was a part of the Kappa Chi Alpha sorority which is a Christian service-based organization where they partner with Mission Waco to serve the Waco community.

This fall she will be staying at her student-teaching site, Bell’s Hill Elementary in Waco ISD, as a third-grade teacher.

Outstanding Student in Gifted and Talented Education

Audrey Nolen, an elementary education major with gifted and talented concentration and ESL certification, received the award for Outstanding Student in Gifted and Talented Education. She is from White Rock, New Mexico, and summa cum laude BSEd graduate.

Nolen was a student teaching intern at Woodway Elementary, serving in the fifth-grade classrooms of Pamela Blair, Dr. Shanna Attai, and Suzanna Kelley. Her intern supervisor was Jina Clemons.

Nolen chose teaching because she thinks it is the strongest way to make a difference in the lives of children and in society. “We might not be able to change the world, but we can change someone’s world,” she said.

Mentor teacher Pamela Blair said Nolen may be one of the most personable, relationship-driven, and task-oriented student teaching interns she has ever had. “She has connections with each student in our homeroom and personally speaks to them each day,” Blair said. “I have enjoyed watching her teach as she always had a personal touch, background story, or intriguing fact to share with the class.”

Jina Clemons, intern supervisor, said Nolen has demonstrated a profound understanding of effective teaching practices, engaging her students with interactive lessons that meet diverse learning needs. “Her ability to connect with both high-achieving students and struggling students highlights her adaptability. Audrey is intelligent and curious, and these traits help her relate especially well to her gifted learners,” Clemons said.

At Baylor, Nolen was a member of the Baylor Chamber of Commerce, serving as the secretary, chaplain, and recruitment chair throughout her four years. She was also a student ambassador for the Student Advisory Council.

Nolen will be staying at Baylor to pursue a PhD in Educational Psychology.

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For more than 100 years, the School of Education has advanced Baylor’s mission across the globe while preparing students for a range of careers focused on education, leadership, and human development. With more than 65 full-time faculty members, the school’s growing research portfolio complements its long-standing commitment to excellence in teaching and student mentoring. Baylor’s undergraduate program in teacher education has earned national distinction for innovative partnerships with local schools that provide future teachers deep clinical preparation. Likewise, the School of Education’s graduate programs have attained national recognition for their exemplary preparation of research scholars, educational leaders, innovators, and clinicians. Visit the School of Education website to learn more.

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Baylor University is a private Christian University and a nationally ranked Research 1 institution. The University provides a vibrant campus community for more than 20,000 students by blending interdisciplinary research with an international reputation for educational excellence and a faculty commitment to teaching and scholarship. Chartered in 1845 by the Republic of Texas through the efforts of Baptist pioneers, Baylor is the oldest continually operating University in Texas. Located in Waco, Baylor welcomes students from all 50 states and more than 90 countries to study a broad range of degrees among its 12 nationally recognized academic divisions.