Graduate College of Social Work (GCSW) PhD candidate Chelsea Sanchez is one of four winners of the Graduate Teaching Assistant Award. 

The Graduate Teaching Assistant Award is given by the University of Houston's Graduate School. Winners are selected based on excellence in innovative teaching practices. 

When asked what it means to recognized for her teaching, she said "I am deeply honored to have been nominated the Graduate College of Social Work and selected by the UH Graduate School for a Teaching Excellence Award as a graduate teaching fellow. To be recognized by a community that I respect so deeply means more to me that I can fully express. The GCSW has been a place that has challenged me, supported me, and helped shape both my professional and personal growth as an educator, scholar, and clinician."

In the classroom, Chelsea strongly emphasizes reflection and discussion. She challenges her students to apply trauma-informed and justice-informed frameworks as they take on their coursework. "Through guided reflection exercises, collaborative conversations, and ethical case analysis, students are encouraged to examine their own assumptions, values, and professional identities. These approaches help create engaging and psychologically safe learning environments, where students can connect personally and professionally to the material while developing greater self-awareness and cultural responsiveness."

Prior to receiving this honor, Chelsea was also a two-time recipient of the CSWE Fellowship Program Award. Congratulations, Chelsea! We applaud your meaningful achievements – and applaud your drive to shape the next generation of social workers. This honor is proof of how GCSW students are charting their path towards excellence.