Pre-Law Society hosts Dr. Rhonda Beassie

Written By Madison Thurkettle

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.

CHSS Wall of Honor ceremony and Speakeasy celebration

By: Michelle Cardenas

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.

Mexican Delights & Mediterranean Bites: Retreat Eating, Done Right

Food is comfort, culture, community, and one of the many things LEAP explores. In Houston for the weekend for a retreat, the LEAP Ambassadors and other students enjoyed some local flavors.

Cochinita & Co

Written by Isis Hollis

We kicked off our retreat’s first food experience with a very enjoyable meal from Cochinita & Co. This brick-and-mortar location blends traditional Mexican cuisine with modern dining to bring Houston delicious bites for all to enjoy!

Photo by Chelsea Thomas

Victoria Elizondo, a two-time James Beard Award nominee, is the owner and chef of the restaurant that started out as just a small food truck. Her experience helped her curate an undoubtedly top-quality menu for the restaurant, ranging from appetizers to desserts. To start, we enjoyed the flavorful dishes of elote (roasted corn with cheese and morita aioli), totopos (freshly made seasoned chips), and guacamole.

​With the appetizers quickly gone, the main courses came out hot, fresh, and so visually appealing we could hardly resist digging in before the photos. At the suggestion of LEAP Ambassador Michelle, two of us got the signature entrée, the Cochinita Pibil. The dish consisted of pulled pork, a citrus marinade, and pickled onions, with excellent additions of side dishes of rice and beans.

​Professor Yawn indulged in the breakfast chilaquiles. The crispy tortilla chips paired with the spices from the chorizo made for a tasty meal that nearly everyone at the table tasted. Avocado, fresh cheese, cilantro, and other toppings not only decorated the plate but also served as even more flavor enhancers.

​After the relished meal and engaging conversations, everyone credited the great experience at Cochinita & Co set the stage for a productive day of “retreating”!

Phoenicia Specialty Foods

Written by Jacob Wessels

We also visited Phoenicia Specialty Foods in downtown Houston on the second day of our weekend retreat, and that experience also exceeded our expectations.

From the moment we entered the market, it was clear that this store had an enormous selection, making decisions on what to eat very difficult. Filled with international snacks, spices, sauces, cheeses, and deli meats that are clearly a curated selection from around the world, it’s easy to come in for one item and leave with several others, each unique and carefully chosen.

As impressive as the market is, the real highlight for our group was the hot meal bar. Phoenicia makes it easy to grab a full meal, whether you’re looking for something quick or want to sit down and enjoy your food. The options range from shawarmas to plated meals, with enough variety that you’ll likely reconsider what you planned to order.

Many of our members chose different entrees (such as shrimp pasta, salads, hummus, dolmas, and falafel)…

…but the shawarma stole the spotlight–those who chose this dish agreed on the warmth, level of seasoning, and that it was a dish packed with flavor. In fact, we each agreed our choices had unique attributes, from bold spices to satisfying textures, but all had that “made with love” feel.

Throughout the entire meal, it was clear we all genuinely enjoyed the experience. Phoenicia Specialty Foods is more than a lunch stop; it’s a downtown Houston experience. Between the global variety on the shelves and the meal options that truly deliver, it’s the kind of place that feels worth the visit. Several of us plan on returning; if you’re looking for something different, flavorful, and fun to explore, it’s a spot you should add to your list.

A Roman Holiday During a Working Retreat

Written by Robin Houghton

One part of LEAP’s mission is to expand cultural horizons, and this includes exposing students to classic films. Thus it was on the Sunday of our retreat in Houston, we attended a showing of “Roman Holiday” at the historic River Oaks Theatre.

Directed by William Wyler, “Roman Holiday” tells the story of Princess Anne (Audrey Hepburn), who, overwhelmed by the tedium and responsibilities of her title, escapes the embassy for a night in Rome. She stumbles across reporter Joe Bradley (Gregory Peck), who, upon learning her identity, realizes he has a chance at a scoop of a lifetime.

Of the seven students attending, five of us had never seen the film, and it was a treat to find it witty, charming, and romantic, with Audrey Hepburn stealing the show.

Her on-screen chemistry with Gregory Peck was palpable, and it was a surprise to learn this was her first starring role!

Roman Holiday both subverted and helped shape the modern romcom genre. It includes the classic “meet-cute,” montages of Anne and Bradley falling for each other, and many comical and romantic touches throughout.

It does not (spoiler alert), however, include the happy ending that some viewers expect (talking to you Michelle Cardenas) from their films. Princess Anne chooses to resume her duties as a princess; Joe foregoes the story he could have sold. Both do their duty and both willingly take on the personal cost of doing so, making the ending even more romantic.

As a side-note, this was one of the first American films to shoot on location overseas. The entire film was shot in Rome, displaying iconic landmarks (including the “mouth of truth,” one of our favorite scenes) and the charm of post-war Italy.

After the film’s release, Rome transformed into a top tourist destination, in part due to the unique filmmaking choice made by William Wyler.

The ending was, in many ways, the perfect end to our retreat–a flavorful and light scoop of gelato, following a weekend of substantive progress and hearty fare. It was the treat of the retreat.