Center for Law, Engagement, and Politics

Ambassador Rahul Chhabra speaks on India’s Global Leadership

Written by Kayla Fleming

Thursday, April 9th, was an exciting day for LEAP students. We traveled to the Asia Society Texas Center to hear Ambassador Rahul Chhabra speak on India’s place in global leadership, hosted by the World Affairs Council. The event provided new learning opportunities and deeper insight into the world’s largest democracy, India.

Following a warm welcome from Matthew Fuller, the director of Business and Politics at the Asia Society Texas and CEO of the World Affairs Council, Maryanne Maldonado introduced Ambassador Chhabra, setting the stage for a lively and informative discussion moderated by Chief Programs Officer Ronan O’Malley.

Ambassador Chhabra was the perfect blend of entertaining and educational. He discussed India’s rise on the global stage and its relations with other countries. He also highlighted the “economic miracle” of India’s GDP growth, especially in comparison to China, as well as the U.S.

Ambassador Chhabra began by reflecting on India’s early years, following their independence from Britain at the end of the Second World War. He mentioned India’s first choice of ally was the United States, but they refused to be overly tied into diplomatic entanglements as a developing country.

This independent spirit was exemplified by the concept of “nonalignment” and India’s continuous choice to forge its own pathway rather than strictly aligning with the West, China, or Russia. He attributed this concept to “India’s economic miracle.” Ambassador Chhabra mentioned India’s choice to expand into the IT sector instead of manufacturing, which was the proven path to development that China underwent.

Another key topic Ambassador Chhabra explored was the significance of the “123 agreement,” which reversed the previous sanctions on nuclear trade with India. Under George W. Bush, India and U.S. relations increased significantly as India was the only country with which the United States had an arrangement like this. He attributed a large portion of this success to the Indian-American population and their unwavering support.

Nearing the end of the event, O’Malley opened the floor to questions, and Ambassador Chhabra answered multiple questions from the audience regarding India’s global strategy and international partnership.

Listening to his vast experiences and India’s point of view over the last several decades was particularly interesting, and left the audience pondering the effects of American policies on the rest of the world, for better or worse. After the event finished, Ambassador Chhabra was kind enough to take a photo with LEAP students, providing a memorable end to an insightful day.

Mortar & Pestle Brings Joy and Jean Becker

Written by Isis Hollis

It is only fitting to have a book talk in a book shop, and Huntsville is fortunate to have one of the best downtown bookstores in the state: Mortar & Pestle. Filled with books, wine, coffee, and art…

…this “Third Place” was soon filled with people and a charismatic and humorous speaker and, before long, a room full of laughs.

We learned about the travails of Bob Dole, who made an impromptu visit to highlight economic development, only to find himself keeping company with characters dressed as Woody Woodpecker, Frankenstein, Charlie Chaplin, and Mae West–not the look you want when you’ve just fired three campaign officials. Headlines the next day read, “Bob Dole Shakes up Campaign Staff.”

Senator Bob Dole during the Florida Primary at the construction site of Universal City. Photo by Dennis Brack

Of course, it wasn’t all laughs. There were also discussions of events such as attempted presidential assassinations, disaster relief, and 9-11. Irrespective of the anecdote, Becker related tales in the book with passion, intelligence, and a bit of mischief.

The result was a thoroughly enjoyable afternoon in a wonderfully enjoyable venue.

Following the event, attendees bought books, had them signed, and stayed around to enjoy each other’s company.

LEAP Students, Kara Froelich, Carl Pittman (owners of Mortar and Pestle), and Jean Becker then indulged in a meal at Sam’s Table, where we were able to ask deeper questions after the much fulfilling day. Becker revealed more about the process behind wrangling people together to write essays for her book, discussed the busy schedule of a book tour, and extolled the virtues of a downtown bookstore such as Mortar & Pestle.

Remembering You, David Adickes

The LEAP Center follows many artists, but one in particular that every Ambassador admires not only for his work but also because of his local connections is David Adickes. Sadly, he passed away on July 13th, 2025, but his work is still cherished across Texas and the United States.

Fortunately, admirers have a chance to see many of his works across diverse media and eras at the Sam Houston Memorial Museum’s Walker Education Center through May 31.

The show was introduced by Tod Lawlis, Curator of Exhibits, who started his job shortly before the exhibit began!

He and Adickes’ long-time partner, Linda Wiley, did a wonderful job providing an overview of the show, and describing why this exhibit is both special and appropriate for Adickes and his legacy.

The exhibit showcases approximately 40 of his works, including sculptures, maquettes, studies, enhanced giclee prints, and original pieces of art. The exhibit title, however, derives from a song Adickes wrote, “Remembering You,” before he enlisted in the Army.

The works ranged from the 1950s through the 2020s, surely making Adickes one of the longest-working Texas artists in history.

We all had a chance to look at the pieces, select our favorites…

…review them some more, and revise our favorites list!

One of the joys of the event was speaking with many of our fellow attendees. We met descendants of Sam Houston, caught up with old favorites such as the Peases, Woodwards, Lee Jamison, and, of course, had a chance to meet or catch up with Linda Wiley.

Linda spoke lovingly of David, his career, and his vast legacy in the arts world, while also emphasizing that this was a celebration of David’s life and work.

She also took great care to include pieces in the show at difference prices, allowing many people the opportunity to purchase their own David Adickes, a strategy that proved helpful to some of the recent graduates in attendance!

It was a great showing, one befitting an artist who did much for the art world and the arts community.

And it was a particularly nice time for us–for many of us, our first art exhibit–learning more about the work of Adickes, Linda’s involvement in his life and work, and the community to which he contributed much.

The only work in the exhibit not by Adickes. This quilt, by Mary Laura Gibbs, was crafted from David Adickes’ tie collection.

Senior Center Fun & Volunteerism

Written by Zackery Isaacks

The Senior Center offers a comfortable space for seniors to engage in fellowship, with games and activities such as dominoes, bingo, quilting, and crafting. The Senior Center also administers the “Meals on Wheels” program to seniors to alleviate hunger, foster socialization, and promote independence in the senior community.

During last week’s time at the Senior Center, LEAP students engaged with seniors by calling and playing bingo and engaging in a multitude of games such as chicken foot and spades. During the multiple rounds of bingo, the seniors started getting very competitive, and in one round, there were 3 winners at once! While playing group games, the senior center taught the students how to play (and lose) at their favorite games.

For lunch, the senior center served chicken fajitas with beans, fostering a wholesome community gathering for all. As the Wednesday gathering concluded, the seniors plan to come back to engage in the fellowship that the center facilitates.

Open Monday through Thursday from 7:30am-3:30 pm and Fridays 7:30am-2pm, the Senior Center of Walker County serves the community each and every week. Always welcoming volunteers to assist the Senior Center, those interested in volunteering can reach out to Stacy Loll at seniorcenterwalkercounty@gmail.com or 936-295-6151.

Jill Dougherty, The Kremlin, and Vladimir Putin

By Tania Hernandez

It’s always a good evening at the World Affairs Council, and with Jill Dougherty on the agenda, this evening was no different. Ms. Dougherty discussed her time in Russia–which dated back to the 1960s, when she did a study abroad there–her interactions with Vladimir Putin, and her hopes and fears for the future of international relations.

Following an introduction by Ronan O’Malley…

…Ms. Dougherty began her discussion with a slideshow of her early years in Russia. She had the opportunity to travel to Russia–along with her twin sister…

…while in school, in part, because she had studied the language in grade school.

Although Dougherty enjoyed studying in Russia, she was aware, even as a young person, that government officials followed her and, occasionally, when she was presenting to crowds, undercover government officials would hector her during question and answer sessions, being dismissive and negative about life in the United States.

Following her presentation, WAC’s Sandija Bayot moderated the discussion. She asked Dougherty to discuss how Russia has changed since the hopeful days of Gorbachev and Yeltsin.

And while the 1990s may have been a hopeful time for the world and Russia’s citizens, the transition from Communism to democracy was chaotic, and leaders weren’t able to build an infrastructure that was capable of sustaining a democracy. Putin came in, and in contrast to Yeltsin, he was sober and had a vision for Russia’s future.

The vision, she notes, is heavily influenced by the leader’s belief that the USSR was taken advantage of, exploited, and humiliated in the post-Cold War era. This “chip on his shoulder” shapes his actions, and the government fails to enact democratic procedures, protect civil liberties, or honor any sort of free speech. This latter point is, ultimately, what prompted Ms. Dougherty to leave Russia, disappointed in what the government has become, but in admiration of the Russian citizens, culture, and language.

Jill Dougherty ended her discussion with hopes that one day she’ll be able to return to the country and experience again the Russia she once knew.

She closed to much applause, and following her main discussion, we had the rare opportunity to spend some small-group time with her. She was a bit more candid, but just as lively and as interesting, further enhancing our night’s education.

And while I may be a newcomer to World Affairs Council events, it is events like these that keep me coming back!

Bringing Easter to Life at the Wynne Home

By Allie Plunk

Laughter, bubbles, and a little friendly competition filled the air as LEAP students assisted with the Wynne Home’s annual Easter Egg Hunt, organized and overseen by Angela Robinson!

Several of us arrived early to hide the eggs we had stuffed on earlier in the week…

…set up games, and arrange seating for the day. We even drew two sets of hopscotch to get our chalk art station started!

As visitors began to arrive, we put on our bunny ears and got to work directing the games and handing out prizes for the winners.

The kids got their energy out through numerous games, such as corn hole and ring toss…

…various races, which we felt compelled to participate in…

…darts, jump rope, and musical instruments…

… and they let their creativity flow through crafts and sidewalk chalk…

…and – perhaps most importantly – took pictures with the Easter Bunny!

They also enjoyed handcrafted balloon creations from a balloon artist, ranging from swords to flowers.

And bubbles are always a big hit.

Before the big hunt began, everyone fueled up with a delicious lunch of chips and hot dogs, generously provided by Stephanie.

At 12:40, the main event began: the Easter Egg Hunt. Split into two age-based groups, the kids were buzzing from excitement as they pressed against the edge of the tape…

…that separated them from their targets: the golden eggs, containing special prizes.

As the tape broke in the six-and-over group, a lunge for one of these shiny eggs resulted in a blur…

…heap of fallen children!

Thankfully, they were able to recover without injury and dash to collect the remnants of pillaged eggs. After just five short minutes, both groups were finished, every egg claimed and stowed away in baskets and bags. Inside, they found everything from toys, candies, and stickers, a fun collection of treats to enjoy!

As the excitement settled, we began to pack up, saying goodbye to the eager hunters as they left with prizes in hand and smiles to match – a reminder of how small moments like these bring a community together.

Lessons in Leadership: Judge Gonzales and Colonel Yebra

By Isis Hollis

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!

Pre Law Society and Public Safety

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.

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