After nearly three decades as a public school educator, Lee Glaesemann returned to the classroom — this time as a Ph.D. student. The school district ESL coordinator is pursuing his doctorate in curriculum and instruction, working to develop an instructional model to support neurodiverse multilingual learners.
“I am deeply passionate about creating equitable learning environments for elementary students who navigate both language acquisition and specialized learning needs,” he said. “This passion drives my doctoral research.”
Glaesemann was one of six University of Houston College of Education students spotlighted during Graduate Student Appreciation Week in April, nominated by faculty based on academic excellence, leadership and contributions to the College community.
“Being selected made me feel that the faculty and community genuinely valued my work,” said Xincui Zhang, who’s also pursuing her Ph.D. in curriculum and instruction. “This recognition not only affirmed my efforts but also motivated me to further connect my research with meaningful support for Chinese immigrant families.”
From teachers to school psychologists, the 2026 honorees reflect the many paths that lead to graduate study at the College of Education. Read more about the students’ motivations, research and favorite spots on campus.
Kelli Lahman
Ph.D. in School Psychology
Nominated by Professor Brad Smith and Associate Professor Virginia Snodgrass Rangel
Please share a little about yourself and your background.
I am a fourth-year doctoral candidate in the school psychology program, a specialist-level school psychologist and a nationally certified school psychologist. I have four years of training experience providing therapeutic services and conducting psychological assessments with highly diverse populations across the lifespan. When I am not working on manuscripts or upcoming presentations, I enjoy trail running, going to concerts/festivals, playing piano, watching movies, and hanging out with my family, friends and two German Shepherds, Charlie and Chase.
How do you hope to make an impact in your field?
I conceptualized the “MDR-7” for one of my dissertation papers — which is the first multimodal decision-making process for school psychologists to make disciplinary recommendations for K-12 students with disabilities in a standardized yet individualized manner. I’m hoping it helps address biased decision-making and reduce the longstanding issue of disciplinary disproportionality in education.
What’s a standout memory or moment from your time in the College of Education so far?
My best memory so far was attending the National Association of School Psychologists (NASP) annual conference in New Orleans with my advisor, Dr. Brad Smith, and his lab. We all had a blast presenting our work together and having fun in the city! Shout out to my peers, Mahnoor, Jeff and Steve, for making that week the best!
Favorite place to study on campus?
Depending on the day, I love studying at the reflection pool in front of SSC1, Legacy Lounge in Student Center South or Cougar Grounds.
Lauren Chapman
Ph.D. in School Psychology
Nominated by Clinical Associate Professor Rachael Whitaker
Please share a little about yourself and your background.
I’m a Ph.D. student in school psychology at the University of Houston and a Licensed Professional Counselor associate. I earned my bachelor’s degree from Texas A&M University and my M.Ed. in counseling from UH. My work across education, clinical practice and research has shaped my focus on adolescents and their families, particularly on how stress, identity development and community shape their experiences in school and at home. Outside of my studies, I enjoy spending time with loved ones, traveling and dance.
What are you most passionate about, and how does that show up in your work or research?
I am passionate about supporting the mental health and well-being of adolescents and their families through a strengths-based lens, emphasizing resilience, identity development and community influence rather than focusing solely on symptoms or diagnoses. This shows up in my work through leading group therapy for adolescent girls, facilitating psychoeducational programs, and engaging in research that centers on culturally responsive, ecologically informed approaches. I strive to bridge the gap between scholarship and accessible, relevant mental health care.
What’s a standout memory or moment from your time in the College of Education so far?
One of my favorite moments was walking across the stage at Fertitta Center alongside my close friends from my counseling cohort. This felt like full circle. We had grown so close throughout the program, so sharing that moment made it even more meaningful. I also remember seeing my program director, Dr. Whitaker, right before crossing, which made it feel even more personal. At that moment, I saw a chapter close that meant so much to me, one that represented years of personal growth, long days, shared experiences and the relationships that carried me through it all.
Favorite UH sports team?
I spent most of my life as a competitive dancer, so I’d have to say the Cougar Dolls and right after that, basketball, of course. Go Coogs!
Lee Glaesemann
Ph.D. in Curriculum and Instruction
Nominated by Associate Professor Miao Li
Please share a little about yourself and your background.
I am a veteran public educator with 27 years of experience, currently serving as the elementary ESL coordinator for Fort Bend ISD and pursuing my Ph.D. in curriculum and instruction at the University of Houston. My doctoral research focuses on developing an instructional model for elementary students, specifically dually identified neurodiverse multilingual learners. Outside of academia, I have been a devoted husband to my wife, Nurhida, since 2002. I am a proud father to a daughter who is also navigating her own college journey. To maintain balance, I am an active hybrid athlete and Ironman triathlete.
What are you most passionate about, and how does that show up in your work or research?
I am deeply passionate about creating equitable learning environments for elementary students who navigate both language acquisition and specialized learning needs. This passion drives my doctoral research, where I am developing an instructional model tailored for neurodiverse multilingual learners in the early grades. In my district role, this shows up as a commitment to ensuring every student has the tools they need to thrive during their most foundational years of schooling.
If you had one “pitch” for someone considering a graduate program at UH/the College of Education, what would you tell them?
I would tell them that UH provides a rare combination of rigorous academic challenge and a supportive, collaborative community that values your unique professional background. The faculty here don’t just want you to earn a degree; they want you to contribute meaningful work that solves real-world problems for students and teachers. It is an environment that pushes you to grow as a scholar while respecting the expertise you bring to the table.
Favorite place to eat on or near campus?
The Student Center is my favorite hub; I appreciate the variety of food options to fuel my research and training, but I also really enjoy that it has a bowling alley! It’s a great reminder of the vibrant student life we have here at UH.
Dandan Liang
Ph.D. in Curriculum and Instruction
Nominated by Assistant Professor Xin Li
Please share a little about yourself and your background.
I’m in the second year of my doctoral studies in early childhood education at UH. As a first-generation, transnational scholar, I bring a deeply grounded lens to my research on the intersection of language, social-emotional learning, identity and community spaces for young children. I am also grateful for opportunities to serve in professional and community spaces, including serving as the student representative on the American Educational Research Association (AERA) Division D Graduate Student Committee, and working with Children’s Museum Houston to translate research into engaging, family-friendly content.
What are you most passionate about, and how does that show up in your work or research?
I knew teaching would be my future career while in college. I spent four years teaching in an elementary school after earning my M.Ed. That experience deepened my love of working with young children. I’ve continued in the field of early childhood education by delving deeper into it through my Ph.D. studies. Sometimes on weekends, I also volunteer at a local community literacy center, where I get to connect with children and families firsthand and contribute something meaningful to their lives.
What’s a standout memory or moment from your time in the College of Education so far?
It has been the many moments of support from faculty and peers in the College of Education, which have been the most powerful source of strength as I adapt to this learning journey as an international student. Those moments of kindness and guidance are what I will always remember most.
Favorite place to study on campus?
I really enjoy relaxing and studying in Student Center South. There’s food, coffee and many cozy sofa areas where I can take a break and reset. I especially enjoy sitting near the large windows when the sunshine comes in. The greenery and warm Houston spring weather always give me extra energy.
Kimberly Nguyen
Specialist in School Psychology
Nominated by Clinical Associate Professor Shannon Viola
Please share a little about yourself and your background.
I’m currently finishing my second year in the Specialist in School Psychology (SSP) program. I earned my bachelor’s degree in psychology in 2021, and it’s amazing how quickly time has flown because I’ll be graduating next spring! When I’m not working or keeping up with school, I enjoy going to the gym, exploring new restaurants and coffee shops with friends, cooking, reading on my Kindle and traveling the world.
What are you most passionate about, and how does that show up in your work or research?
I am deeply passionate about advocating for students and their families, particularly those from minority backgrounds. As a Vietnamese-American, I experienced years of internal struggle. I often wished I had someone to support, educate and advocate for me during difficult times. This perspective shapes my work today. I strive to conduct thorough assessments and take the time to clearly explain results to parents, answer their questions and build understanding. My goal is to help remove barriers that may impact a student’s academic success and overall well-being while ensuring families feel supported and empowered throughout the process.
What inspired you to choose the University of Houston for your graduate studies?
I chose to stay in Houston for my graduate studies because I’ve already built my life here, with family and friends nearby. The SSP program at UH was especially appealing because it offers a hybrid format, with most classes online while still providing in-person opportunities. This flexibility allowed me to continue working while earning my degree. Additionally, I was inspired by the faculty. Dr. Hendricker and Dr. Viola are among the most knowledgeable, approachable and supportive educators I’ve had the pleasure of learning from, which made UH feel like the perfect place to further my education.
Favorite place to study on campus?
My favorite place to study on campus is the library.
Xincui Zhang
Ph.D. in Curriculum and Instruction
Nominated by Associate Professor Miao Li
Please share a little about yourself and your background.
I am a Ph.D. candidate in curriculum and instruction with a specialization in bilingual education at the University of Houston. I have extensive experience teaching Chinese to both heritage and non-heritage language learners at higher education institutions in China and the United States, including Arizona State University, the University of Houston and the Middlebury Chinese Language School. I serve as a board member of the Chinese Language Teachers Association of Texas, an AP Reader in Chinese language and culture for the College Board, and an evaluator for the Critical Language Scholarship Program of the U.S. Department of State.
What are you most passionate about, and how does that show up in your work or research?
I’m most passionate about advancing bilingualism and equity in education. This commitment drives my research on heritage language maintenance and bilingual development among Chinese immigrant communities in the U.S. My work advocates for inclusive school and community practices that honor home languages, including through culturally responsive support for Chinese immigrant families and children with special needs, such as autism. In my teaching, I develop effective strategies for both Chinese heritage and non-heritage learners, including project-based learning approaches that connect language learning to real-world cultural experiences.
What’s a standout memory or moment from your time in the College of Education so far?
I would say one of the most memorable moments during my time in the College of Education was being nominated [for Graduate Student Appreciation Week], in recognition of my contributions and engagement in the program. Being selected made me feel that the faculty and community genuinely valued my work. This recognition not only affirmed my efforts but also motivated me to further connect my research with meaningful support for Chinese immigrant families.
Favorite student event?
My favorite student events are the various UH performing arts productions. I especially enjoy attending shows at the Wortham Theatre and Moores Opera House, which is such a great way to experience the perfect blend of art and academic life at UH.
—Photos courtesy of the featured students