Rick and Cheryl Cohagan – Gunter HOF

Rick and Cheryl Cohagan have both played vital roles in the community of Gunter. They have both partaken in not only the important roles within the education of Gunter students, but also served as loving parents, grandparents, citizens, and friends. They are recognized by most everyone in Gunter as inspirational, successful, and loving residents who helped develop Gunter ISD into one of the top school districts in the state.

Rick Cohagan was born in Waxahachie on March 9th, 1947. Growing up, he was a very dedicated athlete. He always aspired to be a coach; in fact, he even received a scholarship for  both basketball and football while furthering his athletic career at Navarro Junior college in Waxahachie. Not only was he a dedicated athlete, but he was also a dutiful student. He received a Bachelor’s degree, then later transferred to the University of North Texas and acquired his Master’s degree in Business. Unfortunately this didn’t quite satisfy him, as he still longed to be involved in the physical education and development of students.

After receiving a convincing phone call from the Superintendent of his home town’s high school, Rick decided to go back to school and get the courses he needed in order to start teaching.

His ability to inspire and encourage people is something I will always remember.

After putting in 27 years of being both Principal and Superintendent at Gunter High School, he finally made the decision to retire. When asked about his favorite memory from working at Gunter, he responded that he had “Not just one memory, but the traditions that Gunter ISD is known for, such as being the best academically and in extracurricular activities,” and that he this is what he was  most proud of. “Gunter was, and still is, on top or close to the top in anything we do.” Good friend to the Cohagan’s, Royce City Superintendent Kevin Worthy, noted, “Mr.Cohagan influenced me in many ways. He was very influential in developing me into who I am today. He saw something in me at a young age and encouraged me to pursue administrative positions. His ability to inspire and encourage people is something I will always remember and try everyday to model. He has a big heart.”

Cheryl taught at the elementary level, and then remained as a Principal for the next 28 years, saying that her most fond memories were, “the daily hugs from the children. I miss their sweet, loving smiles.” Raving about the staff and all her coworkers, she commented, “Every one of the staff members were my closest friends. Friends I could depend on professionally and personally. Every day was a blessing. “

Rick and Cheryl moved to Gunter together in 1978 and are still proud “Gunterites”. They have two daughters, Shellye and Jill, who also both live in Gunter.

Guest Authors: Alexandria Robinson and Chaney Elvington

Editor’s Note: If you live in Gunter and have never met the Cohagans, then you need to find them and say “Thank You!” The Gunter ISD and the city of Gunter would NOT be the town or school district we enjoy without these two people. Their dedication, foresight, and leadership has created a standard of excellence that will be passed down for years to come.