By Olivia Discon
October 21, 2024, marked the 188th anniversary of Sam Houston’s inauguration as the first elected president of the Republic of Texas. It’s somewhat of a tradition for LEAP Ambassadors to volunteer, but this year’s event had a special twist, with a new Sam Houston Memorial Museum exhibit featuring Houston’s Executive “Mansion.”
As volunteers, we assisted in greeting guests throughout the museum. Michelle and Chrissy were tasked with driving attendees in golf carts from the parking lot to the museum. While their driving may have inspired a newfound appreciation for walking among some, the passengers arrived in good spirits.
The celebration was well-attended, with approximately 100 guests, including local figures such as Mac and Leanne Woodward, Michelle and Winston Spencer, Mary Laura Gibbs, Glynda Turner, former Mayor Jane Monday,Vice-President Matt Bethea, Dr. McCartney Johnson, Tabitha Shanley, Interim City Manager Sam Maisel…
…and Assistant Director of the Academic Success Center Heather Caudle.
And yes, Derrick Birdsall was there too.
One of the most exciting moments was meeting the renowned sculptor David Adickes, the man behind “A Tribute to Courage,” also known as “Big Sam.”
It’s safe to say we were star struck in more ways than one.
Once everyone had settled in, Matt Bethea, SHSU’s Director of University Advancement, gave opening remarks, discussing how the investment in university advancement strengthens SHSU’s position and puts it on a stronger playing field. His remarks highlighted the broader significance of projects like this exhibit for the university’s future.
Derrick then took the stage for the ribbon-cutting ceremony, offering a brief explanation of how the executive mansion exhibit came to life.
He shared the backstory of incorporating the mansion into the existing galleries, with help from local company Steely Lumber, which provided key materials for the project.
The exhibit itself is a interactive and fun representation of Houston’s life, styled after “an college student’s dorm room on a Monday night.”
It highlighted Houston’s well-known gambling habits and showcased his love for books, offering a balanced portrayal of both his vices and intellectual interests.
Another renowned artist, Lee Jamison, took the time to speak with us as well. His work can be found all over the state, and many of the LEAP Ambassadors—past and present—are huge fans of his distinctive style. A favorite of many is his painting of Old Main from his Huntsville at Night series. It was fun to hear him recount the many efforts that went into crafting the piece, including the detailed research into the stained glass windows. While I couldn’t help but feel a bit sad knowing I’ll never get to see the building in person, his painting offers the next best thing.
The Sam Houston Memorial Museum always puts on fantastic events, and for many of the students, it was their first time visiting the museum. It was truly an evening to remember!
Center for Law, Engagement, and Politics 