Two faculty members and one administrator from the College of Professional Education (COPE) were recently recognized with awards at the annual Consortium of State Organizations for Texas Teacher Education (CSOTTE) conference.

CSOTTE serves as an umbrella organization encompassing nine professional associations across Texas, each dedicated to advancing educator preparation and development. The annual conference brings together university-based educator preparation programs, alternative certification programs, community colleges, and P–12 partners to celebrate excellence and innovation in teacher education statewide.

Rebecca Fredrickson, EdD, Professor of Educational Leadership, was honored by the Texas Association of Community College Teacher Education Programs (TACCTEP) with the Doug Hamman Partnership Award. This recognition celebrates her extensive leadership in partnership development that bridges educator preparation among community colleges, school districts, and four-year universities. Her work has strengthened collaborative pipelines that expand access and opportunity for future educators across Texas.

Sarah McMahan, PhD, Professor of Teacher Education, received the Ben E. Coody Distinguished Service Award from the Texas Association of Teacher Educators (TxATE). This honor acknowledges her outstanding service to the field of teacher education and her leadership in field-based experiences and clinical practice. Dr. McMahan’s expertise has shaped countless teacher candidates and continues to influence best practices across the state.

Gina Anderson, EdD, Associate Dean for Educator Preparation and Partnerships, was recognized by the Associate and Assistant Deans and Directors of Texas Colleges of Education (ADoT) with the Excellence in Mentoring Award. This award celebrates her enduring commitment to fostering professional growth, leadership, and collaboration among colleagues. Dr. Anderson’s mentoring has cultivated a positive, supportive culture for learning that impacts faculty, staff, and students alike.

Each of these statewide honors required a formal nomination and two letters of recommendation, underscoring the distinguished contributions of COPE’s awardees and their impact on educator preparation across Texas.