Van ISD is proud to celebrate Avery Killough, a 2022 graduate of Van High School, whose journey from Vandal Land to Tarleton State University has led to a career helping other Texas students navigate their own paths after high school.

Killough graduated from Tarleton State University in May 2026 with her bachelor’s degree and is currently pursuing her master’s degree. She recently accepted a position in Enrollment Management at Tarleton State University, continuing a journey with the university that began when she arrived on campus as a freshman in the fall of 2022.

Throughout her time at Tarleton, Killough has worked for the university, including serving as a Campus Tour Guide, while also remaining actively involved in campus ministry and serving as a Challenge Leader.

Today, her role allows her to help students and families across Texas as they consider their options after high school. Killough works with close to 2,000 high school counselors across the state, helping connect students with information and resources as they explore whether Tarleton State University could be the right place to continue their education.

For Killough, the leadership skills she uses today began developing during her years at Van High School. She describes herself as having entered VHS as a shy FFA student, but through opportunities to become involved and the encouragement of mentors such as Kathryn Adams and Jason Rose, she grew in both confidence and leadership.

Her journey is an example of the success Van ISD hopes to prepare every student to pursue — leaving Vandal Land ready to embrace new opportunities, continue learning and growing, and positively impact the people and communities around them.

From a shy FFA student at Van High School to a college graduate and young professional helping students across Texas plan for their futures, Killough continues to make Vandal Land proud.

Congratulations, Avery! Once a Vandal, always a Vandal.