The Pine Tree Education Foundation is honored to recognize Katherine Taylor, Class of 1980 as a 2025 Distinguished Alumni. L. Katherine (Kathy) Taylor, is a Stephen F. Austin University graduate, and earned her Masters in Biology from Western Kentucky University. Kathy is an accomplished Certified Clinical Research Professional with over 20 years of experience leading teams in Oncology and Cardiovascular research. She has extensive expertise in clinical trial management, program development, budgeting, regulatory compliance, and team leadership. Kathy is recognized for her ability to build strong, collaborative teams, mentor and train staff, and foster partnerships with physicians, sponsors, and hospital leadership. With a track record of streamlining operations and guiding complex clinical trials, Kathy is dedicated to advancing research while cultivating a culture of respect, teamwork, and continuous improvement. Kathy has successfully expanded research programs, built strong physician and industry partnerships, and led high-performing teams at Vanderbilt University Medical Center and Saint Thomas Health.
Distinguished Alumni Award
The Distinguished Alumni Award is the highest honor awarded to a former student of Pine Tree ISD. The award, sponsored by The Pine Tree Education Foundation recognizes former students who have made significant contributions to society and whose accomplishments and careers have brought honor and distinction to Pine Tree ISD.
The Pine Tree ISD Education Foundation is currently accepting nominations for the 2026 Distinguished Alumni. Nomination forms are due by Friday, June 5, 2026 Distinguished Alumni will be honored at Pine Tree's Homecoming on Friday, September 11, 2026.
2025 Distinguished Alumni
Katherine Taylor, Class of 1980
Dr. Hunter Skoog, Class of 2009
The Pine Tree Education Foundation is honored to recognize Dr. Hunter Skoog, Class of 2009 as a 2025 Distinguished Alumni. Dr. Hunter Skoog, earned his Biomedical Engineering degree and medical degree from Texas A&M. He then completed a five-year residency in Otolaryngology–Head & Neck Surgery at the University of Alabama at Birmingham, training in both adult and pediatric care. His research focused on head and neck surgery, airway management, and dysphagia. After completing his training, he returned to Longview to establish practice at East Texas Ear, Nose, and Throat Clinic where he provides advanced care for both adults and children.
Dr. Skoog’s wife, Emily, is a pediatric physician, and together they are raising their two children in Longview. Known for his kindness and humility, he has earned the respect of colleagues and patients while bringing advanced ENT care to the community. Dr. Skoog reflects the values of hard work, respect, and service.
Previous Distinguished Alumni Honorees
Applications for the 2026 Distinguished Alumni will be available Spring 2026. This form may be submitted electronically by Google Form with the option to upload files or scanned copies of supporting materials to dpruitt@ptisd.org or this form and accompanying materials may be mailed to: Pine Tree Education Foundation P. O. Box 5878, Longview, TX 75608