Through the many roles he served in over his career, Alberto Gonzales gained valuable knowledge in helpful principles, career advice, and getting past setbacks. Once again, LEAP students had the opportunity to hear from Mr. Gonzales himself, along with David Yebra (formerly Colonel Yebra), the Senior Associate Vice Chancellor for Lone Star College.
After a fitting introduction from Michelle Cardenas, Mr. Gonzales showed us a short video featuring photos of his career highlights, a career that includes the first minority partner at Vinson & Elkins, Texas Supreme Court Justice, White House Counsel to President George W. Bush from 2001-2004 and Attorney General from 2005-2007. With this career, he was well qualified for his post-government role as Dean of the Belmont College of Law.
The floor quickly opened for questions, with many of us eager to absorb as much wisdom as we could from Mr. Gonzales.
He discussed his humble beginnings as a first-generation college student, which he afforded by joining the military. Moreover, he emphasized the values instilled by his parents: (1) being reliable–“showing up and doing your job, reliably” and (2) accepting challenges to continue growth.
When asked about how he dealt with any setbacks during his career, Mr. Gonzales told us that perseverance calls for struggle. Even when facing hardships, as he did while serving as the first Hispanic American Attorney General, you must trust that if you put in the work, things will work out in the end. As important, he reminded us to dream big. While not all of our dreams will work out, they definitely won’t work out if they aren’t pursued.
Both Mr. Gonzales and Mr. Yebra highlighted the importance of building relationships during their talk. Judge Gonzales emphasized the importance that George W. Bush played in his career, and Colonel Yebra stressed the importance of building relationships built on professionalism, trust and reliability.
Colonel Yebra reminded us to surround ourselves with people that we can learn from while understanding that our role serving others allows for greater professional growth–and, simultaneously, more responsibility. The aspect of serving others is a distinct value LEAP holds in everything we do so it resonated with all the students present.
Once our time with Mr. Gonzales was up, we snapped a quick photo to add to the many taken with him over the years, from when he so kindly came to visit us at SHSU. All of us present took away profound insights we can use in our own lives. We look forward to seeing Mr. Gonzales and Colonel Yebra again in the future!
For our second meeting of the semester, Pre-Law Society had the pleasure of hearing from Sam Houston State University’s Police Department. Rather than the traditional typical guest speaker, lecture-style, format, we engaged in some fun activities that are both relevant to the legal field, but also college students, especially when it comes to alcohol, substances, and decision-making. Olivia Discon briefly introduced Sergeant Butterworth (“Butters”) and Lieutenant Zella, and Professor Mike Yawn.
Instead of jumping straight into laws and definitions, they started with something more familiar to everyone in the room: “extracurricular” college life. The kind that doesn’t go on a resume.
What made this meeting stand out was how interactive it was. Rather than talking at us, they walked us through real scenarios, ones that felt uncomfortably realistic. Two students acted out a situation at a house party: one over 21, one underage, a drink left unattended. At first, it seemed harmless. But as Butters and Zella broke it down, the legal implications became clear, showing how quickly a casual decision can turn into a charge. That theme carried throughout the night: small choices, real consequences.
One of the most impactful moments came during a scenario involving someone who had clearly had too much to drink. The question wasn’t just “what’s illegal?” it was “what do you do in case of an emergency?” Students talked through what it means to take care of someone in that situation, from recognizing the signs of alcohol poisoning to physically placing someone in the correct position for safety. Our very own Brittlyn Jackson was eager to take the role of the incapacitated person, which she took on with uncanny verisimilitude!
Various people in the audience made suggestions about how to help Brittlyn, but the most helpful and obvious of choices–calling 911–was not immediately volunteered. But this is crucial, and for those worried about getting in trouble, there is a “Good Samaritan Law” to protect individuals (under specific conditions) who call in such an emergency.
The next scenario played out involved a traffic stop with the potential for DWI and DUI. Gabriel Kranz-Danet played our “drunk driver,” and we learned about the best ways to pull over safely and swiftly. Unfortunately for Gabriel, his almost immediate confession brought this scenario to a quick conclusion!
We then shifted to what would occur after a traffic stop to determine whether someone is under the influence: Standardized Field Sobriety Tests (SFST).
To best simulate the experience, various students put on goggles that distort vision, and for some, balance and coordination. As the students made their best attempts to “pass” the test, several good questions about their careers, hypotheticals, and explanations about the process occurred. It was quite fun to watch the students struggle to catch an eraser, walk in a straight line, or stand on one foot. Of course, we discourage any student from drinking and driving, but we would like to note that, based on their performances with drunk goggles, this would be particularly disastrous for Eva Killande rand La’Kia Tilley.
Another way we learned that police officers can determine impairment was the Horizontal Gaze Nystagmus test. It is the physiological phenomenon that occurs when someone is under the influence of alcohol, causing involuntary jerking of the eye as it follows the movement of objects. We simulated this sensation by spinning Victoria Reich, PLS member and employee of Student Legal and Mediation Services in an office chair. Though it was brief compared to true alcoholic impairment, we were able to see Victoria’s eyes shift quickly which was quite interesting!
Our group thoroughly enjoyed this event. Many thanks to Jayden Shoellhorn, Sergeant Butterworth, and Lieutenant Zella for joining us and for their service to the SHSU and broader Huntsville community.
The meeting then transitioned into more general business. Nataly Elizondo provided the finance update, Olivia Discon shared social media and membership updates, and Madison Cawthon presented meeting minutes. Olivia then introduced upcoming events, including the Mock LSAT (deadline to register is April 1), 10th Court of Appeals, and a Spring Social on April 22.
Overall, this meeting stood out because it didn’t just tell us what the law is but also how it plays out in real life. This meeting was a reminder to all of us that setting ourselves up for success isn’t just about future careers in law, but about the decisions we make right now.
Although Huntsville residents have their share of exposure to the criminal justice system, they rarely have a chance to see an appeals court in action. That changes this Wednesday, April 1, when the Center for Law, Engagement, And Politics hosts the Texas 10th Court of Appeals at Sam Houston State University (Kerper Courtroom), with hearings at 10am, 11am, and 1:30pm. The cases involve possession of a firearm by a felon, charges, sexual abuse of a minor, and possession of a controlled substance.
“The cases are interesting to the local community and students alike,” notes LEAP Ambassador Michelle Cardenas. “It’s a rare chance to see our appeals court in action, and this year’s cases are especially intriguing.”
The 10th Court of Appeals typically meets in Waco, where they hear cases two-three times a year. But the Texas Legislature allows the appellate courts to travel to county seats within their jurisdiction. The 10th Court of Appeals’ jurisdiction extends to some 18 counties, including Walker County, and they have travelled to SHSU every year since 2012 to hear three or, sometimes, four cases.
In addition to changing the venue, the justices also alter the courtroom procedures slightly to suit the educational setting. Attorneys for both the plaintiff and the defendant have three minutes to turn, face the audience, and provide the facts of the case. Although this component of the hearing has no impact on the justices’ decision, it is designed to allow those in attendance to better follow the legal arguments that will be put forth.
This year’s cases involve diverse issues and will take place at the times listed below:
10am: Milton Rederick Miller v. State of TX : This appeal involves possession of a firearm by a felon, with the legal issues addressing, among other things, whether barring guns from non-violent felons violates the 2nd amendment and whether the defendant was competent to represent himself.
11am: Tacoby Davis v. State of TX: this appeal involves charges of sexual assault of a child. The legal issue involves the question of what constitutes a “public trial” and whether barring a testifying witness from the courtroom compromises that constitutional guarantee.
1:30pm: Tyrone Shepard v. State of TX—This appeal involves a conviction for possession of a controlled substance. The legal issues involve the relevance of the defendant’s previous arrest for controlled substance and his right to a speedy trial.
Unlike trial courts, which select juries and are presided over by a single judge; the 10th Court of Appeals is presided over by a three-justice panel: Chief Justice Matt Johnson, Justice Steve Smith and Justice Lee Harris. In appeals hearings, there are no juries, no witnesses, no direct or cross-examinations, and no outcome is decided immediately at the end of the hearing. Rather, each side is given 20 minutes to argue their case, with the justices often interjecting to ask questions, challenge an interpretation, or to seek additional information.
The cases will be heard at the Kerper Courtroom in the CJ Center at Sam Houston State University. Although the courtroom rarely reaches capacity, it has occurred, and seating is provided on a first-come, first-served basis. Local residents are welcome to attend. For more information, contact Mike Yawn at 936-294-1456 (or by email at mike.yawn@shsu.edu).
Please note there is a dress and etiquette code enforced by the court. It is:
Dress Code – All persons attending any portion of the oral argument sessions must wear proper attire. The following is a list of inappropriate attire that includes, but may not be limited to:
T-shirts with any type of inappropriate language or picture
Weapons – Weapons of any type are NOT allowed in the room where the oral arguments are taking place. Electronic Devices –ALL electronic devices must be either turned off or set to silent. Recording– No photos, broadcasting or recording devices are allowed during the oral argument session. Food and/or Drink – No food or drink is allowed during the oral argument session. This also includes tobacco products and chewing gum. Behavior – Any person who disrupts the proceedings by talking, making noise, public display of signs, or similar conduct will be required to leave the courtroom. Entrance and Departure – The Court strongly discourages the entering and departure of the courtroom during hearings. The bailiffs will permit entry at the top of the hour, at the beginning of hearings, and at 50 minutes past the hour.
Saturday, February 28th was an eventful day for LEAP students! We travelled to the Royal Sonesta Hotel in Houston for a book talk on Pulitzer Prize Winner Jon Meacham’s new anthology American Struggle, which explores the history of politics.
…and moderated by Chief Programs Officer Ronan O’Malley…
…Meacham discussed American political history, getting into the nitty gritty of the division of party lines with witty humor and anecdotes.
In addition to the United States’ religious roots, he explored the impact of African Americans as far back as the Civil War, such as Frederick Douglass, on the development of political ideology– more specifically, the creation of the Republican party.
Meacham had several interesting points on the distinction between an “anti-slavery” and “abolitionist” person in the 1800s. These two ideas were once very different, yet today, most Americans would consider them the same thing. This kind of trend is frequent in politics, as ideology and morality evolves. He also unpacked the lasting effect of the World Wars, Great Depression, and Cold War, describing the general idea of modern American politics as “a vigorous debate, from 1932 to 2016, between [the ideas of] FDR and Reagan.”
He also reflected on the development of factions within the two major political parties, such as the John Birchers of the 1950s. On today’s politics, he determined that while we do live in a time of political upheaval due to party extremism, this “crisis” is not unprecedented. America’s political history has been littered with events that were perhaps more destabilizing than what we experience today, such as the Great Depression, the rise of the Ku Klux Klan, and the fight for Civil Rights in the 60s. These events shook Americans to their core. While today’s Americans may feel like they exist in a space of political turmoil, the moral and financial roots of a nation were shaken during these events. He suggested that history serves not as a roadmap, but as a diagnostic tool, helping citizens understand how democratic institutions have survived moments of extremism in the past.
Following the talk, we were surprised to see Jean Becker, whose book event we had attended at the Bush School of Government and Public Service just days earlier. After a brief conversation and a quick selfie, we had the opportunity to introduce ourselves to Meacham– a memorable end to a day that brought American political history to life.
Pre-Law Society is back in session for Spring 2026! PLS held its first meeting of the semester and welcomed 133 members, who came back in style. As part of a goal to promote professional development in our students, Pre-Law Society members were encouraged to participate in the “Bearkats in Blazers” initiative—with many students doing so!
Once the meeting officially began, President Olivia Discon introduced our guest speaker for the evening, Dr. Rhonda Beassie, Vice President for Administration at Sam Houston State University. While her current role covers a diverse range of departments such as procurement, human resources, Title IX, and many more–it only begins to shine a light on the breadth of her impressive career. Indeed, she explained that her career was truly a “non-linear” path to where she is today.
Dr. Beassie highlighted her career, emphasizing that paths in law and related fields are rarely linear. She described her journey as “circuitous,” in that she began in real estate, then moved into various levels of the legal—without the initial plan to attend law school.
After working as a legal secretary, Dr. Beassie earned her paralegal degree and worked as a paralegal, a role she described as one of her most fulfilling due to the collaborative nature of litigation. She later returned to school for her undergraduate degree before attending law school.
Once she completed law school, Dr. Beassie worked in legal education and student legal services, then served as General Counsel for the Texas State University System. Her advisory experience led to leadership roles in administration at Sam Houston.
Dr. Beassie emphasized that flexibility and openness to opportunities shaped her career and encouraged students not to feel pressured to follow a traditional path directly from undergraduate studies to law school.
Dr. Beassie encouraged students not to let uncertainty or lack of confidence prevent them from pursuing opportunities in the legal field, reminding members: “You deserve a seat at the table.” She highlighted the importance of initiative, networking, and embracing new challenges, even when they seem intimidating. Many of her own career advancements, she explained, came from accepting opportunities that required extra research, preparation, or learning new subjects.
After her presentation, students asked various questions about Dr. Beassie’s career path and her experiences in legal and leadership roles.
Members asked about:
how she decided to pursue law school after initially working in other fields
Managing responsibilities such as family while attending law school
Whether a paralegal background strengthens a law school application
What roles did she find more fulfilling throughout her career
Dr. Beassie said that while law schools focus on GPA and LSAT scores (most important), practical experience, such as paralegal work, can help applicants stand out when qualifications are similar or competitive, and provides valuable preparation for legal work. She also encouraged students to pursue internships and volunteer opportunities, and that even unpaid roles build professional credibility and transferable skills.
Dr. Beassie concluded her presentation at 7:15 PM. President Olivia Discon thanked her and transitioned to the business portion of the meeting…
Treasurer Nataly Elizondo provided a finance update, Secretary Madison Cawthon presented the meeting minutes, and VP of Membership McKenna Nonnenmann and VP of Marketing Jackie Balbuena shared their updates as well. Pre-Law Advisor Jean Loveall also informed members of upcoming changes to the LSAT beginning in August 2026, noting that while the exam’s structure will remain the same, students will be required to take the LSAT in person, with the option to test either on computer or paper.
With a lot of good information and high spirits, the meeting adjourned with excitement for the semester and our futures ahead.
It is a LEAP Center tradition to assist the Wynne Home Arts and Visitor Center with their Empty Bowls fundraiser each year–and it is a tradition that dates back to 2008, when a LEAP intern initiated the project. This year, some 250 people stopped by the Wynne Home for a community lunch while raising approximately $7,000 for Meals on Wheels.
For our part, almost 20 LEAP students–under the direction of Wynne Home Program Coordinator Angela Robinson–volunteered to help ensure a positive guest experience.
This involved greeting guests as they arrived, inviting them to select a unique ceramic bowl, accepting payment, and directing them to the various food stations, which featured culinary options by HEB, Sam’s Table, Meals on Wheels, Five Loaves Deli, Huntsville High School Culinary Team, and City Hall Cafe.
It’s a great way for the community to come together in support of the arts while also fighting food insecurity. This year’s event brought together a record number of participants, and the guests seemed to linger longer, enjoying one another’s company, getting their first tour of the Wynne Home, or otherwise just enjoying the event.
For most people, Empty Bowls is a single-day event, but it actually is planned almost year-round. In the fall of each year, Angela Robinson begins scheduling bowl-making classes, which are open to the public. Residents can register for a class, learning from one of the talented instructors, which this year featured Dakota Dube, Leara Phillips, Kathy Crowell, Molly Campbell, and Lauren Clay, (and Canvas and Cork generously provided additional bowls).
After making the bowl, they return to glaze it, and then they have the option of purchasing their bowl or donating it. If donated, it becomes part of the bowls selected by “walk-up” customers on the day of Empty Bowls–and it was quite a selection this year!
The event is one of LEAP’s favorites, and our involvement is multi-faceted. We signed up to make bowls, glaze bowls, and we also volunteer monthly at the Senior Center. This year, many of us made bowls in our own registered class with Lauren Clay, and then made bowls again at the Senior Center, with the congregants. To cap things off, we volunteer at the Wynne Home on the day of Empty Bowls.
That longitudinal process allows us to see the volunteerism at multiple time points, and see the project through to its completion–from the creation of the bowls, to the glazing of the bowls, to the event itself, to the donation to Meals on Wheels–where the money is used to provide meals to seniors in the community. And it was inspiring to see so many people come together, from artists and students to local leaders and supporters, all working toward the same goal of helping others.
For those interested in more opportunities related to the Arts and/or the Wynne Home, see the Spring Classes:
LEAP’s mission has always been to stay engaged. For us, that does not mean just attending events. It means showing up fully, celebrating others, and honoring the people who have shaped our lives, university and our communities. That is exactly what we had the privilege of doing at the College of Humanities and Social Sciences Wall of Honor ceremony this year.
This year’s ceremony felt especially personal. Among the honorees was our own advisor, Professor Mike Yawn, and the halls were filled with former LEAP Ambassadors, current students, and family members of the honorees.
Professor Yawn with Former Ambassadors
What began as a formal university event quickly turned into something that felt like a reunion, homecoming, and celebration of legacy all at once.
The Ceremony took place at the Katy and E. Don Walker Education Center. As we walked into the foyer, the plaques of the evening’s honorees, Herbert H. O’Quinn, Dr. Donald Vernon Coers, and Professor Mike Yawn, stood proudly on display. Soon the space came alive with conversation. Alumni embraced, former ambassadors reconnected, and community members gathered to celebrate. It was one of those moments where you look around and realize how leaders rooted in service have the ability to connect people from all walks of life.
When we moved into the auditorium, Dean Li introduced the proceedings, congratulated the winners…
…and turned over the proceedings to the emcee, Chris Tritico. He reminded us that the Wall of Honor recipients are individuals who have dedicated their lives to serving others and strengthening their communities.
As the evening unfolded, it became clear that each honoree embodied that description in a profound way.
First, we honored Dr. Donald Vernon Coers, a scholar and academic leader whose impact on Sam Houston State University spanned three decades.
After earning his doctorate in English Literature, he joined SHSU in 1969 and later served in key leadership roles, including Associate Vice President for Academic Affairs and Student Services. He was also the first President of the SHSU Faculty Senate and a nationally recognized scholar on John Steinbeck. Beyond his professional accomplishments, he was deeply engaged in the Huntsville community and devoted to his family. His legacy lives on through the many students and colleagues he mentored.
Herbert H. O’Quinn was also recognized. A proud Bearkat alumnus, he graduated in 1963 with a degree in Sociology and Industrial Relations.
He went on to build a 40-year career in human resources and operations management, leading large-scale projects both in the United States and internationally. Throughout his life, he remained closely connected to Sam Houston State University, serving on the Alumni Board and as a founding member of the CHSS Advisory Board.
Above all, he was remembered as a devoted husband, father and man of faith whose legacy reflects integrity, service, and commitment to community. His family accepted the award on his behalf, honoring a life well lived.
Then it was time for Professor Mike Yawn to be inducted into the Wall of Honor.
As the video began, the screen filled with testimonials and memories, including words from Megan O’Flaherty and Mac Woodward–not to mention some fun photos from earlier years.
It was difficult not to become emotional.
For those of us in the room who have been shaped by LEAP, this was more than a professional milestone. It was a reflection of the man who has poured decades into mentoring students, creating opportunities, and teaching us what engaged citizenship truly means.
Professor Yawn founded and led programs that have transformed student experiences, including the Center for Law, Engagement, And Politics. Through internships, civic programming, travel opportunities, and community partnerships, he has shown generations of students that leadership experience is gained through serving others. Watching him receive this honor was one of the most meaningful moments many of us have experienced as ambassadors.
When he spoke, he did what he typically does. He redirected attention to others. He highlighted the contributions of O’Quinn and Coers in his own life and reflected on the people who helped shape his journey. His words were heartfelt and sincere, and the room was filled with pride and gratitude. There was a deep sense that we were witnessing something bigger than an award ceremony. We were celebrating lives that reflect the very best of Sam Houston State University.
With such a large LEAP presence in town, we knew the night could not end there, although we did make the most of photo opportunities…
Professor Yawn with Current Students
…we decided to continue the celebration with a LEAP style after party at the speakeasy at Sam’s Table. What followed was everything you would expect from a room full of current and former ambassadors. Laughter, storytelling, and the kind of conversations that pick up right where they left off, even if years have passed.
One of my favorite parts of the night was playing LEAP Bingo, a game I created filled with classic LEAP experiences we all know too well. From memorable trips to unforgettable classroom moments, it was a reminder of the shared experiences that connect us across graduating classes. Watching alumni laugh and point at squares that described moments from years ago was such a full circle moment.
Also fun were the cookies that alumna Maggie Denena commissioned from Denley Sweets & Decor, featuring various facets of LEAP, including a “Yawn Cookie,” modelled after a photo of him taken at Acadia National Park.
We also had a chance to take home pillows stitched by “Team Mom” Stephanie, who made them out of LEAP t-shirts, fashioned from prior trips and activities.
It was a fun night, one that validated a lot of time and effort into a program that produces real results in people and communities.
The Wall of Honor Ceremony reminded us why we stay engaged. It reminded us that leadership is not about titles but about service, relationships, and lasting impact. And the speakeasy after party reminded us that LEAP is more than a program. It is a family.
Professor Yawn with Former Ambassadors
It was a night focused on legacy, gratitude, and community. And for all of us who have been shaped by LEAP and the College of Humanities and Social Sciences, it was a night we will not forget.
The Bush Foundation: Jean Becker and Tom Collamore &
In a special event hosted by the George and Barbara Bush Foundation, authors Jean Becker and Tom Collamore took the stage to discuss their new book, “Don’t Tell the President.” And as with all Bush Foundation events, the setting and the audience proved to be as interesting as the main attraction.
That was certainly the case this time, as we ran into Secretary Andrew Card…
…and photographer Mark Burns before even entering the auditorium! Both were generous with their time, discussing their favorite stories concerning President Bush.
Of course, they were also there to see Jean Becker, and while we may not be members of the Jean Becker Fan Club….
….we make the opportunity to see her speak.
Don’t Tell the President: The Best, Worst, and Mostly Untold Stories from Presidential Advance
…introduced the event, and it was a pleasant and unexpected surprise when she introduced us!
The most enjoyable part of the evening, of course, was hearing from Jean Becker and Tom Collamore–and contributing authors Robbie Aiken, Jay Allison, and Greg Jenkins–discuss a blend of behind-the-scenes chaos and the concomitant responsibility that comes from preparing the nation’s most important figure for public engagements.
The engagements discussed ranged from the picayune to the momentous, from an imposter surreptitiously boarding the press plane for a presidential trip to getting just the right setting to support Solidarity in Poland with Lech Walesa and the destruction of the Berlin Wall in Germany.
This was the perfect pairing with our visit to the Bush Presidential Library earlier in the day, providing insights into some of the history we had observed while also reminding us of the importance of event planning, even in our own small events.
Adding to the fun of the evening was seeing Ms. Becker be recognized as an honorary member of the TAMU Singing Cadets, who sang “America the Beautiful” as an honor to the United States as part of the country’s 250th anniversary of independence.
Tour: The Foundation Offices
Following the event, we approach Ms. Yates to thank her, and she graciously spent more time with us, even as she had additional work to do. During the conversation, she offered to give us a tour of their offices, tell us more about the Foundation, and let us see the “Bush Apartment.”
We had already had a wonderful day: seeing the Bush Presidential Library, hearing from Kathryn Meyers at the Bush School of Public Service, and attending the Becker and Collamore event. So, the opportunity for something on top of all that was certainly unexpected, and while we didn’t want to delay Ms. Yates from her work any further, this was an opportunity we couldn’t decline.
Ms. Yates provided an overview of the Foundation’s work, while also givinga wonderful tour of the Foundation’s space. It was a beautiful space, one that has been preserved since the President’s passing, and one that is still used for myriad purposes. It was an honor to be given the tour, and it was the perfect way to end our time at the Bush Presidential Library.
Dinner
While the tour was an ideal cap to our day at the Bush Library, we all believed that dinner would be the perfect way to end our; accordingly, we headed to Shiraz Shish Kabob. On LEAP field trips, we do our best to eat at restaurants themed with our learning opportunities, and after spending a day at the Bush Library–where the Middle East was much on display–we enjoyed diverse fare from one of our favorite College Station places.
For many, it was the first time to try Baklava or Shawarma or even Hummus, and it was met with great approval.
With full stomachs, on a high of a fantastic nine-hour learning sprint, and a renewed spirit of public service, we returned to SHSU.
Center for Law, Engagement, and Politics 