Tyler ISD School Counselors were recognized as the 2025 C.C. “Pinky” Baker Jr. Persons of Courage during Mosaic’s annual Peace of Mind Conference held at the W.T. Brookshire Conference Center. The event, now in its eleventh year, serves as the region’s premier educational conference on mental health and wellness, bringing together educators, healthcare professionals, and community leaders to foster understanding and support for mental health initiatives.
The C.C. “Pinky” Baker Jr. Award is presented annually to an individual or group who has demonstrated exceptional courage and commitment to improving mental health and well-being within the community. Named in honor of Mosaic’s Founding Board President, the award celebrates Baker’s legacy of compassionate service and dedication to enhancing lives across Smith County.
This year’s honorees, Tyler ISD’s school counseling team, were recognized for their commitment to supporting students’ emotional health, providing crisis intervention, and promoting a culture of well-being across all campuses.
“Tyler ISD counselors embody courage every day as they meet students where they are—with empathy, understanding, and a commitment to helping them grow,” Tyler ISD Director of Counseling Laurie Anderson said. “This recognition is a beautiful reflection of their heart for service and their daily impact on the lives of children and families.”
The conference featured keynote speaker Dr. Kristin Neff, a nationally renowned expert on self-compassion and mental wellness and a faculty member at The University of Texas at Austin. Dr. Neff inspired attendees with insights into how self-compassion can transform personal and professional well-being.