In their first year in the classroom, five recent University of Houston College of Education graduates are already making a lasting difference for students and school communities.

The University of Houston College of Education spotlighted six students in honor of Graduate Student Appreciation Week. The honorees were 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 doctoral student Xincui Zhang.

The spring 2026 graduates from the UH College of Education have turned their passions into purpose, ready to make their mark in the fields of K-12 and higher education, health and wellness, research and beyond. "The College of Education helped me grow both academically and personally," said Soraya Sato, a health major graduating with a 4.0 GPA. Read more about the College's top graduates.