Dr. Elisabeth Luévanos ’18
(1979–2025)
Dr. Elisabeth Avila Luévanos dedicated her life to education and leadership,
serving as superintendent of Milano Independent School District and as an
adjunct professor at Texas A&M, where she earned her Ph.D. in Educational
Leadership and Administration.
She championed innovative strategies to improve student success and foster
cultures of belonging and trust. Under her leadership, Milano Elementary
earned the 2023 National Blue Ribbon Award for academic excellence.
Dr. William “Bill” Nash
(1943–2024)
Dr. Nash served in our Department of Educational Psychology for 36 years,
where he mentored generations of graduate students and served as
Coordinator of Graduate Studies.
He founded the Galveston Island Adventure/Gifted and Talented Institute,
which later evolved into Sea Camp and the Youth Adventure Program, and
helped establish statewide training programs for teachers of the gifted.
He served as President of the National Association for Gifted Children in 1987.
Dr. Hersholt “Hersh” Waxman
(1951–2025)
Dr. Waxman served as a professor in our Department of Teaching, Learning and
Culture, where he founded the Education Research Center and co-directed the
Center for Mathematics and Science Education.
He was instrumental in developing the Teaching and Teacher Education program
and mentoring graduate students throughout his career. His research secured
millions in funding and earned national recognition. He is remembered as a
visionary leader, principled colleague and devoted mentor.