Written by Kayla Fleming
On August 25, 2026, LEAP students had the opportunity to speak with Governor Greg Abbott regarding a new policy for higher education. At the SHSU Woodlands Center, Governor Abbott met with several Sam Houston State University students, including LEAP students, Orange Keys, and select nursing students, before holding a press conference to announce the Texas Summer Course Tuition Discount Program. Thanks to the effort and generosity of President White, the President’s Office, and the Governor’s team, the event went off without a hitch.
When we arrived at the Woodlands Center, we received a warm greeting from President White. Likely sensing our nerves, President White, Dr. Johnson, and Ms. Alexander were friendly and encouraging, helping us prepare and relax before the event officially began. After being directed upstairs, we had the opportunity to chat about upcoming LEAP events with Emily Binetti, SHSU Director of Content Communications, while we waited for the Orange Keys and nursing students to arrive.
During the first half hour, LEAP students had the chance to speak with Representatives Swanson, Toth, and Holt. At President White’s request, the representatives shared advice about preparing for our futures. They emphasized the importance of gaining real-world experience, as well as developing strong reading and writing skills. Their advice offered a valuable perspective on the skills students can develop now to prepare for their future careers.
When Governor Abbott entered, he was nothing less than kind and well-spoken. He informed us about his new policy, which provides discounts for students taking summer courses. The plan will offer a $500 discount for students taking one to five credit hours and a $1,000 discount for students taking six or more credit hours. He responded to our questions with genuine interest and explained the ideas behind the policy in clear, accessible terms, which we all appreciated. After approximately 30 minutes of conversation with the Governor, we had the opportunity to take pictures with him before the press conference began.
President White opened the press conference by thanking Governor Abbott and highlighting Sam Houston State University’s achievements. Governor Abbott then thanked the university, the students, and the Representatives in attendance before officially announcing the policy. Several Representatives also spoke during the conference, but one particular speaker was especially close to our hearts: our very own Ruthie Passmore.
Though her remarks were brief, Ruthie’s words were impactful and insightful. She discussed the challenges tuition can pose for students, drawing from her own experience. As a student responsible for financing her education, Ruthie explained that the cost of tuition has required her to work three jobs. Her perspective provided a personal reminder of why policies aimed at making higher education more affordable can have a meaningful impact on students.
Although our time with Governor Abbott was short, the experience was worthwhile. We were given a behind-the-scenes look at the Governor’s schedule and an opportunity to see politics in action. More importantly, we were able to speak directly with elected officials, ask questions, and hear advice that we can carry with us as we continue our education and prepare for our futures.
The advice we received from the Representatives, along with the opportunity to meet Governor Abbott face-to-face, made the experience one that each LEAP student will carry with them long after the event concluded.
Center for Law, Engagement, and Politics 