Derrick Birdsall, the current director of the Sam Houston Memorial Museum, is a photographer who seeks to capture remote landscapes with the vivacity of the context behind them. Birdsall’s “Under the Texas Sky” exhibition is now on display at the Wynne Home, and I had the privilege to both assist and attend the opening reception on May 23, 2023.
Despite the severe weather, there were several people in attendance. Those who arrived early had the opportunity to mingle and treat themselves to some refreshments provided by the Friends of the Wynne.
Beginning with a brief opening statement, Cultural Services Manager Sarah Faulkner spoke about a few upcoming events that the Wynne Home is hosting, as well as introduced the man of the hour.
Derrick encouraged the attendees to take photos of what interests them in line with the moment, without influences of technology or trends. Many of the pictures that are on display are the result of exploring what was “just around the corner”, with incredible scenic landscapes as a result.
Throughout the reception, we were able to ask Derrick questions about any particular work and the story behind it. One discussion that particularly fascinated me was “Scratch That Itch”: a charming picture of a herd of bison at Caprock Canyons State Park. At first glance, I wouldn’t have assumed the significance of the herd outside of its ideal placement in front of the canyons. However, with the guidance of the photographer himself, I was able to grasp how remarkable it was! The Goodnight Herd is one of the oldest-living domesticated bison, who were restored from near-extinction and returned to their native land. The perspective of a photographer with great historical knowledge captivates the viewers to not only gain the insight of the photo itself, but also the historical context.
The gallery was a wonderful way to incite conversations in the community surrounding the art of photography and the natural world. Many thanks to Derrick Birdsall for sharing his stories and photographs, and to the Wynne Home for hosting this exhibition!
In any given semester, LEAP Ambassadors do volunteer service, attend presentation by leading public figures, tour art museums, explore civil rights and history, and, when possible, attend performing arts events. This semester was no different and, in fact, the Ambassadors began the semester with Chicago and they ended it with a performance of Noises Off at the Owen Theatre in Conroe, TX.
This was a rare treat for us, in that none of us had ever been to the Owen Theatre before, although several of our party had seen Noises Off. Indeed, Victoria McClendon was attending tonight as an alum, but her very first LEAP event was a production of this play at SHSU in 2016!
This time, in addition to Victoria, we had Olivia Discon, Professor Yawn and Ms. Stephanie, and Dr. Hyman and Carol Hyman–the latter of whom generously treated us to dinner!
Noises Off is a full-on farce, a play within a play about putting on a play.
It is a crowd pleaser, but with all its moving parts, and it’s abrupt changes in persona from each character, and its frantic pace, it’s also a difficult play to put on, especially for a community theatre. But the Owen actors did a fine job, with Jillian Linton (as Brooke Ashton), Robert Faber (as Lloyd Dallas), Jeff Linton (as Sheldon Mowbray), and Allen Dorris (as Frederick Fellowes) standing out.
The first act of the play shows a rehearsal, one that is not going well, much to the chagrin of the director, “Lloyd Dallas.”
The second act depicts the opening, albeit from “behind the stage.” The real audience (us) is not seeing what the imaginary audience sees; rather, we are seeing the drama, spectacle, and chaos going on behind the scenes.
The third act, which is the most madcap, puts the real audience (us) in the perspective of the imaginary audience, allowing us to see how much of an impact the behind-the-scenes drama is having on stage.
Apparently, it’s not easy to put on a play in general, and especially when there are two separate love triangles (and maybe a love quadrangle) occurring, along with a cast that includes a drunk, a dimwit (or two), and a gossip. But those difficulties make for a fun time for the audience, and helped produce much laughter and enjoyment for the LEAP Ambassadors to cap off a long and rewarding semester.
When exploring the hidden gems of Austin, Texas, one may be led downtown to the home, which happens to double as a museum, of William Sydney Porter, otherwise known as O. Henry- a prominent author famously known for his short stories such as “The Gift of Magi.”
Mr. Porter’s home is a Queen Anne-style cottage built in the mid-1890s. Amazingly, much of the original furniture is still preserved there for the public to see! The house is covered in vintage wallpaper, giving each room a different feel than the next, contrasting with most modern homes today. Interestingly, when the home was donated to the city for historic preservation, it was moved from its original location in a middle-class neighborhood to its prime location today.
Although this was Mr. Porter’s home, it was not where he constructed his famous short stories. He did most of his writing in prison for a felony of embezzlement, which he committed while working at the First National Bank. During his three years in prison, Mr. Porter wrote around 380 short stories that were published after his release, which launched his writing career, established him as an author, and later led to him becoming the famous author we regard him as today. Due to negative connotations attached to convicted felons, Mr. Porter began using his pen name, O. Henry, to prevent people disregarding his work due to serving time in prison.
The story of Mr. Porter’s past and aspiring short story author was fascinating to learn about while visiting the museum! However, the museum touched not just on Mr. Porter’s most talked about life, such as his ascent as an author; it also touched on more intimate parts that the average fan might not know. For example, Mr. Porter had a passion for music. The museum had a handwritten sheet of music titled “Main Street,” with the original notes and lyrics that he wrote on display. During his time in Austin, one could find him writing sheet music for piano, acting in the Austin Musical Union, or playing in a string instrument band, the Hill City Quartette.
I always find a little memento of Sam Houston in every museum I visit. For instance, this museum’s connection to Sam Houston was an old desk that Mr. Porter used during his time in Austin. The desk belonged to his great uncle, Adolphus Sterne, who was good friends with Sam Houston. This is one reason Mr. Porter valued this desk so much was because of the rich history behind it.
During his life, Mr. Porter was a man of many trades as he was an aspiring writer to support his family. He worked as a pharmacist, a bookkeeper, and a drafter to make ends meet. When he worked at a local drugstore, he was found to be excellent at sketching his customers. This led him to work at the Texas General Land Office for about four years, where he was tasked with drawing maps of Texas counties. He started working at the First National Bank to provide more financial support for his family, which led to his embezzlement and, ultimately, to his arrest.
One inspirational thing you can take from the legacy of the life of Sydney Porter is that every event in his life led to the next, and in the end, that is what got him to where he needed to be successful. This helps give me some perspective that not every bump in the road must be bad; it can be all about what you make of it.
The LEAP Center is always on the hunt for quality events, and when we heard the North American Society for the Study of Romanticism was being hosted at SHSU–and that the lead organizer was Dr. Michael Demson–we knew we’d found one.
The Conference is taking place over three days, March 30-April 1, with dozens of panels, workshops, entertainment, tours, and other interesting and entertaining programs. LEAP assisted with one of these, a tour of the Huntsville Unit for a group of students, conference attendees, and SHSU staff. Mostly, though, we just enjoyed the conference, benefitting from the great work of Demson and an entire conference committee from individuals across campus and, in fact, from campuses across North America.
The meat of the conference was from the plenary speakers and the panels, both virtual and in-person, with approximately 200 people attending.
LEAP students attended a few of these, including the first-day plenary speaker, Professor Doran Larson, who, among his many titles, is the Director of the American Prison Writing Archive, and he was introduced ably by Professor Michael Demson.
Professor Larsen discussed the distinct themes in prison writing, noting how little they had changed over time, a reflection of the horrible state, as he sees it, of our prison system.
His presentation generated much interest and discussion.
The conference picked up the next day, with a full day of panels, which we were able to attend. We saw great panels featuring professors not only from the United States, but from around the world. All of the panels helped us learn about justice, literature, and many different cultures.
We even learned about Finnish literature from SHSU’s own Dr. Helen Halamari, with her husband Dr. Rob Adams in attendance.
This was our favorite panel. Interesting fact: not only is Dr. Halamari a TSUS Regents Professor, she also has a Ph.D., and four different Master’s Degrees.
Many kudos to Dr. Demson and the great staff (Deanna Briones, Sarie Fuller, Yahneed John, Brittany Johnson, Jerin Milan, and Rhonda Owens) who helped bring this conference to SHSU.
The Woodlands’ residents and various students got the opportunity to indulge in another World Affairs Council event, this one focusing on the “myths of globalization.” This event, featuring Shannon K. O’Neil, included amazing insight into regionalism and foreign relations.
O’Neil is an expert on Latin America, foreign relations, global trade, and supply chains. Shannon O’Neil has an extensive and impressive education which includes two degrees from Yale university in international relations and Latin American studies and a PhD in Government from Harvard University. Along with her qualifications and various degrees that make her an expert in Latin America, Dr. O’Neil has resided in Mexico and Argentina.
Following brief remarks by Sandiia Bayot, Mr. Seitz (from Cypress Creek’s Speech Team) introduced Dr. O’Neil. Moderating the event was Mr. Ray Cunningham, one of the WAC staff and a good friend to the LEAP Ambassadors. The two discuss how globalization can be confused with internationalization and development, although the terms have different implications and meanings.
Dr. O’Neil began with a personal anecdote about her hometown, Akron, Ohio, and how a city once booming internationally in the tire industry became desolate due to a lack of regional support. She compares this story to modern day trade and how weak ties with neighboring countries puts a nation at a disadvantage in world markets.
She took us on a trip back in history by discussing post-war development and how it impacted production and trade in different regions today. Focusing on three specific regions, Asia, Europe, and North America, she discussed their different economies, trade agreements, and regional dependency.
Dr. Shannon O’Neil spent a lot of time discussing new initiatives that are currently being worked on in the United States. She noted how the United States is actively developing and searching for ways to become less dependent on overseas production, especially in the area of semiconductors. She also discussed agreements like NAFTA and the USMCA, addressing the benefits and consequences the accords bring to our economy, dependency, and local trade.
Something I learned from the discussion is that Laredo, Texas is the second largest (land) port in the United States. I had not anticipated an inland port to be one of the most heavily trafficked in the nation.
The conversation then moved on to a Q&A where a lot of interesting topics were brought up by the audience such as sanctions and how they can be a weapon in international conflicts as well as the logistics of manufacturing companies to Latin America.
As two students studying Criminal Justice, economics and globalization are not subjects at the forefront of our education. However, Dr. O’Neil made such an intricate and nuanced topic super attainable and inspired us to learn more about the subjects. We had the pleasure to speak to Dr. O’Neil after the event, get our books signed, and learn more about her and some of her opinions on development in Texas.
Before and after the event we also had the chance to appreciate beautiful art pieces from the Glade Art Gallery. We had the chance to indulge in the art and find some pieces that resonated with us. Although extremely hard to choose “Lost in my Mind series 4” by Rebekah Molander was one of my favorites.
Whether it’s art, the experts, or the friendly staff at World Affairs Council, we are always grateful to attend one of their events.
Being a LEAP Ambassador, I am accustomed to making the most of my experiences, and that has been true in my first six weeks in Austin as a member of the Sam Houston State Austin Internship Program. This program has allowed me to not only learn more about the inner workings of the Texas State Capitol but to learn more and explore the city of Austin! With a great array of options to choose from what to do in Austin, I am glad I chose activities that showed me Austin’s beautiful landscape, fresh and homemade foods, and unique artwork!
First, there is no better way to grasp the beauty of Austin than on top of Mount Bonnell. A popular attraction since 1939, Mount Bonnell is perfect for tourists, and locals alike. Before walking up the mountain I found out I was about to be 775 feet up above sea level, which may sound frightening for those afraid of heights, but the view over Pennybacker Bridge, glistening skyline, and Colorado River makes it completely worth it. Not only was I able to enjoy this breathtaking view but I was able to bring a special guest to come along, my dog, Pupito.
Many people would agree that Sunday afternoons are perfect for farmers markets. I took advantage of this and learned that the farmer market scene in Austin is unparalleled! After going to Texas Farmers’ Market at Mueller I will make it a point to visit a lot more during my time in Austin. This Market was filled with Austin’s locally owned businesses that sold fresh vegetables, food, jewelry, and bar soaps–all while live music is performed! It was a lively event on a beautiful day in Austin. As I walked through the crowd, I quickly spotted Lamb Gyro’s at Lamba’s Royal Indian Foods, and I knew I couldn’t pass it up. The food was delicious, and the open grassy area made me feel very welcomed.
Last, it was a great idea to take a self-guided tour of UT Landmarks Austin’s key works of art (I have already visited the Blanton a couple of times) Learning about the story behind each art piece is truly fascinating. My favorite was the Clock Knot by Mark di Suvero. The Clock Knot sculpture is very interactive and it changes meaning every direction you take to look at it from a different angle. On one side it looks like a clock, but once you walk underneath it, it is interpreted to mean something completely different. I also was able to see other unique and famous pieces such as Nancy Rubins, Monochrome for Austin, and Deborah Butterfield’s, Vermillion!
Living in Austin has opened my eyes to more nature, food, and art! I would not be able to explore to this greater extent without the SHAIP. This was only the beginning of my exploration through Austin and I cannot wait for more adventures!
This past Wednesday, the SHAIP Interns learned that the pride and spirit of the colleges in the Texas State University System isn’t limited to the various towns across the state. For the 2023 biannual TSUS Presents, TSUS staff, members, legislators, country legends, and even SHSU students, gathered at the Austin City Limits to celebrate and honor that spirit.
Artists with the most appearances at ACL
Just last month, we had the opportunity to tour the TSUS offices and meet those who oversee TSUS. It was a great chance to network and learn, just one of the many opportunities for us as SHAIP interns. TSUS also provided lunch, and Development Director Malú González and Vice Chancellor Mike Wintemute presented us with the amazing opportunity to assist with this event. It is at least the third time that SHAIP interns have assisted with this event, which occurs biannually.
We were scheduled to arrive at 3:30pm, but our preparation began earlier, with event descriptions to read, software to download, and instructions to learn. While we waited for guests to start arriving, we visited with Vice Chancellor (and Foundation Director) Mike Wintemute, and Vice Chancellor Sean Cunningham. They were very interested in how our first month of session had gone and how we’d been faring. We even got to say hi to Chancellor McCall, and it was especially nice to work under the leadership of Malu Gonzalez.
(L-R) Ashlyn Parker, Ingrid Cuero, Morgan Robertson, Jessica Cuevas, and Malú González
As a thank you to some of the sponsors, Speaker of the House, Dade Phelan donated his time in the form of photo-ops! And while a couple of the volunteers assisted with that, the rest of us assisted with checking-in the special guests and attendees who after a long day of work were ready to sit back and enjoy the concert: TSUS Presents Dwight Yoakam. Many attendees were members and staff of the Legislature–some of whom we knew after working in the Capitol for a month–members of TSUS Universities (such as the presidents and other cabinet officials), and governmental affairs specialists from all over. In short, it was a networking bonanza! But we did stick to our job, which was directing these guests, all generous donors, towards the photo-ops, auctions, and seating.
Part of the benefit of working this program is that we also attend the event! So, we had a chance to hear from Regent Amato…
…Chancellor McCall…
…and, of course, the honoree, Speaker Dade Phelan.
Speaker Phelan introduced some humor into his speech, while also praising the work of educators, public universities, and the entire process of education. It was appropriate that the funds raised for this event–which totaled more than $700,000–would go to scholarships.
This knowledge made the event even more special for us, in as much as the SHAIP internships for which we were selected are only possible, the result of donors providing scholarships. In a small way, our volunteer work was our way of showing appreciation for the support provided by TSUS, SHSU, SHAIP, and its officials.
As important as we all agree education is, that didn’t mean people weren’t awaiting the main attraction, which was, of course, Dwight Yoakum. And, thus, the lights were dimmed, and the stage where Speaker Phelan previously stood had been rearranged to better suit the needs of country legend Dwight Yoakam and his band!
They quickly filled the room with hit music, including “The Streets of Bakersfield,” “Fast as You,” and “Please Please Baby.”
That was only the beginning even Yoakam noted that was only his warmup. The real concert did not begin until Yoakam played Honky Tonk Man; Little Ways; The Heart that you Own; A Thousand Miles from Nowhere; Guitars, Cadillacs; and many more, including his favorite Willie Nelson tune.
Yoakam wrapped up the concert in fashion as he not only strummed his guitar and danced his signature moves, he also passed on the spotlight to every member of his band recognizing their talents as each took the opportunity to rock out!
After the concert ended, the SHAIP Interns took the opportunity of being around such amazing people and started snapping selfies! Amongst our selfie guests were Assistant Vice Chancellor, Pierce Mitchell;
L-R: Morgan Robertson, Ashlyn Parker, Jessica Cuevas, and Pierce Mitchell
…Vice Chancellor Sean Cunningham and Elliott Herzlich;
Elliott Herzlich, Jessica Cuevas, Mike Yawn, Ashlyn Parker, Stephanie Fors, Morgan Robertson, and VC Sean Cunningham
…Vice-President Heather Thielemann and Dr. McCartney Johnson…
Morgan Robertson, Dr. McCartney Johnson, Jessica Cuevas, Yvette Mendoza, Ashlyn Parker, Vice-President Heather Thielemann, and Ingrid Cuero.
We also had a chance to meet Dr. Carlos Hernandez, currently President of Sul Ross University and formerly VP of Finance at SHSU, and his wife, Lupita, who also worked at SHSU.
…and President White and Speaker Phelan.
This was a great night and we were all thankful to be able to volunteer and attend this live concert! Many thanks to Malu Gonzalez and all those at TSUS for hosting a wonderful event and for supporting students.
While the “LEAP” in the LEAP Center stands for “Law, Engagement, And Politics,” the Engagement component of that mission is interpreted broadly. It includes engagement with multiple disciplines: civil rights, history, policy, and the fine arts. If it’s a learning opportunity, it probably falls under LEAP’s purview, and this past Saturday, it included the musical Chicago, at the Hobby Center.
Prior to the musical, we had dinner at La Fisheria, which provided a new experience with food. Olivia had the salad; Daniela had the fish; Michelle had a type of ceviche, with shrimp, scallops, and peppers; Professor Yawn and Stephanie split the tacos (fish and lobster). In addition, we all split some appetizers: poblano dip, empanadas, and guacamole.
It was a great dinner, while also being reasonably close to the Hobby Center.
Chicago has an interesting history, birthed from an actual event in the 1920s, turned into a (non-musical) play, made into a movie, turned into a musical fifty years later, and then revived in the 1990s–a revival that has turned it into the longest-running musical in history.
It was our first time to see it, although Professor Yawn and Stephanie have seen it multiple times. The plot involves a woman who kills her lover, is arrested, and with a lawyer’s spin, becomes a media sensation. As aspiring attorneys, the play was an entertaining satire on the law, the media, and the American concept of justice and celebrity. Moreover, the musical was both funny and entertaining.
We all had different favorites, but “All that Jazz,” “Cell Block Tango,” and “Razzle Dazzle” rated highly. The production was strong but not elaborate and the dancers were amazing. At least one of us had not been to a play before, at least not as anything resembling an adult! It was, in short, a wonderful theatre introduction and a great experience!
Center for Law, Engagement, and Politics 