Texarkana Arkansas School District Honors Dr. Tracie Calloway-Lawson and Dr. Heather McKnight as 2024-25 Arkansas High School Distinguished Alumni

Born on November 28, 1982, Dr. Lawson grew up in a family of educators, learning early from her parents, Thomas and Sandra Calloway, the importance of faith, perseverance, and the belief that anything was possible. Inspired by her mother’s passing from breast cancer when she was 14, Dr. Lawson pursued a career in medicine with a drive to make a difference. Her path took shape at Arkansas High School, where a specialized course allowed her to shadow doctors, solidifying her passion for healthcare. Graduating among the top of her class in 2001, she continued her studies at Prairie View A&M University, where she earned her Bachelor of Science in Biology and Premed in 2005. Dr. Lawson then embarked on her medical journey at Oklahoma State University Center for Health Sciences, graduating with her medical degree in 2010. She completed her internship and residency in pediatrics in 2013.

Today, Dr. Lawson is the owner of Healing Hands Pediatrics in Texarkana, Texas. She is married to Robert Lawson and is the proud mother of two sons, Jackson and Kayson. With her dedication to children’s physical, mental, and spiritual well-being, Dr. Lawson has come full circle, enriching her community with compassionate care.

Dr. Heather McKnight serves as the Founding Dean of the College of Nursing, Health, and Human Services at Texas A&M University-Texarkana. With over 20 years of experience in nursing and a focus on program development, Dr. McKnight has held prominent roles in education, acute care, and professional organizations. Her career spans curriculum innovation, recruitment, retention, and the development of specialized programs, including the Joint Commission Stroke Program and the Magnet® Program in acute care settings.

Dr. McKnight’s educational foundation began with a Bachelor of Science in Psychology and an Associate Degree in Nursing from Southern Arkansas University, followed by a Master of Science in Nursing Leadership & Management and a Doctor of Nursing Practice from Walden University. She is certified as a Nurse Executive by the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) and actively contributes to various professional and community organizations. Dr. McKnight and her husband, Tony, are alumni of Texarkana Arkansas School District and have two daughters, Berkley and Laiken, who also share the family’s strong Razorback pride.

Both Dr. Lawson and Dr. McKnight exemplify the values of hard work, dedication, and community service. Their accomplishments serve as a testament to the Texarkana Arkansas School District’s commitment to excellence in education and the success of its alumni.

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DISTINGUISHED ALUMNI RECIPIENTS OF THE TEXARKANA ARKANSAS SCHOOL DISTRICT