For many years, this little guy, Ryan Brim (the one on the left), was our mascot.
He started as a “junior, Junior Fellow,” moved into being an Honorary LEAP Ambassador, and is now a full-fledged high-school graduate. In August, he’ll move to Fayetteville, where he will begin the Engineering program at the University of Arkansas.
In his introduction to the team, he was known as a polite kid who was up for various adventures and would even participate as his skills and mother would allow. He began blogging–more or less under orders–at the age of 9, but mostly at this stage he was an observer, getting to be a kid, albeit one with a lot of opportunities.
But while he was at it, he learned to shake hands like a man and work with some exceptional people…
He also had a chance to see some great art…
…eventually enjoying some abstract art…
He was even taught how to work granite by the great Jesus Moroles…
He’s also had the chance to meet many authors…
…and he even got to assist NY Times best-selling author Jeff Guinn on his new book.
He learned a lot about history…
…visited important cultural sites…
…sang at the same microphone as Elvis, Roy Orbison, and Johnny Cash…
…competed, sort of, at the world-famous Keeneland Racecourse…
…hung out with some famous people, or at least facsimiles of such….
Of course, he had to face some fears…
…and even some obstacles along the way…
But as he got older, he took on a more active role, working events with us, working on our fundraisers, and doing college-kid stuff…
He also did some real work, volunteering for his Congressman, assisting an event with the Lt. Governor, working at the Texas Party Convention….
In this manner, he visited 29 states, 20 state capitol buildings, and six presidential libraries. He’s done a lot over a ten-year period.
Some things haven’t changed. When he was 10 or so, he won an award for photography…
…and now he fills in occasionally as our team photographer…
Also, he’s always enjoyed the outdoors, when he actually goes outside.
We like to think he’s had some pretty good mentors…
Of course, he had inducements to be involved….
But whatever his motivation, we are thrilled to be part of his growing up.
…and, from a distance, part of his graduation.
And we know his future is unlimited! Grab the moon, Ryan!
Center for Law, Engagement, and Politics 