Healthyhorns Team Members Recognized in 2026 President’s Staff Service Awards

In her role at the Counseling and Mental Health Center, Alicia works closely with social work trainees as they learn to become counselors, guiding them as they build clinical skills and confidence in supporting students. “It is such a pleasure to see their excitement and to watch them be challenged as they learn how to support UT students who come in for counseling,” she shared.

Alicia began her journey at the then-named Counseling Center as a trainee in 1994 and was hired the following year as a counselor. Over the years, she has served in multiple leadership roles, including supervisor and training director, helping shape the next generation of mental health professionals. Her commitment to mentorship has had a lasting impact on both trainees and the students they serve.

Reflecting on her career, Alicia said, “I continue to enjoy seeing trainees graduate and grow into professional counselors.” After 50 years of service, her dedication to student well-being and professional development continues to strengthen the campus community.

Chris expressed gratitude for a role that allows him to mentor students, collaborate on research and support campus health and well-being initiatives. Reflecting on his time at UT, he shared a favorite memory from 1999 when he was a graduate student and his young daughter explored the Bridgeway Building while faculty and graduate students enjoyed the company of a toddling future Longhorn.

Looking ahead, he is excited to explore creative ways to expand the mental health workforce to better serve students and the broader community.

Marla provides counseling, supervises clinicians and oversees operations at the Counseling and Mental Health Center to ensure students have access to quality mental health care. One of her most meaningful moments was reading in The Daily Texan that a student’s life was positively impacted after learning about and accessing available services through CMHC.

She’s excited to expand access this year through CMHC@WCP and the launch of the re-structured Mental Health Assistance and Response Team.

Banke helps ensure the UHS Lab runs smoothly and delivers reliable, high-quality care for students. She provides administrative and technical oversight of daily operations, performs laboratory testing and reports results students depend on for their health and well-being. She also performs phlebotomy and works to make what can be an anxiety-provoking experience efficient, comfortable and supportive.

As a UT alumna, working at her alma mater has been a full-circle experience. She is especially proud to support students through laboratory services and finds it meaningful to watch them grow, change and thrive over the years.