Kelly Clarkson Surprises A&M-Commerce Alum with Life-Changing Gift
Kelly Clarkson recently invited first-grade teacher and A&M-Commerce alum Eric Hale to her show. Hale is the 2019 recipient of the Queen Smith Award, which recognizes a top urban educator in the country. In the interview, Eric revealed that he motivates his students through music (including some Clarkson songs!). He also discussed a childhood teacher who changed his life. At the end of the interview, Clarkson revealed a big surprise: A $10,000 check for Hale’s class from Texas Capital Bank.
Video Source: YouTube: The Kelly Clarkson Show
More Alumni Success
View All Alumni Success
2025 Alumni Ambassadors Honored
The 39th annual Alumni Ambassador Forum celebrated standout East Texas A&M alumni.
ETAMU Alum Publishes Black Children’s Book on Career Choices
ETAMU alumna Destiny Hibbler writes an inspirational and creative book to teach Black children about various career choices from A-Z.
Blazing New Trails: East Texas A&M Honors College and A&M-RELLIS Shape Cybersecurity Graduate’s Career Success
Kalat's academic and professional successes illustrate the transformative power of an East Texas A&M University education.