Civic Engagement – Page 4 – Center for Law, Engagement, and Politics

Celebrating Citizenship and Community: A Launch to the Next Chapter at The Woodlands Center

After months of anticipation and careful planning, we opened the doors to our Citizenship Celebration at The Woodlands Center–an evening that marked not just a milestone, but the launch of an exciting new chapter for our existing citizenship program.

The celebration brought together naturalized citizens, aspiring citizens, LEAP friends and alumni, all united by a shared support for those on their journey toward citizenship and the program.

What began in 2008 as a local initiative in Walker County has grown far beyond its original scope. Thanks to National Partnership for New Americans, the program now reaches into Montgomery County, creating new connections and expanding the community in meaningful ways.

One of the many goals for this celebration was to ensure every guest left with a meaningful takeaway. This is always easier when everyone shares a common purpose. For us, this growth brought new connections in the Montgomery area, including volunteers from Caney Creek High School…

…who joined SHSU students to create a welcoming, vibrant atmosphere for the guests as they arrive.

As guests arrived, they settled in with plates of delicious food–empanadas, beef satay, ceviche, and an array of other cultural dishes–setting the stage for an evening of culture and connections. The room itself was beautifully decorated with a patriotic theme symbolizing the civic pride and sense of belonging that come with citizenship.

The ceremony began with Professor Yawn, who welcomed attendees and explained how LEAP’s citizenship program is expanding beyond Walker County.

The audience included familiar faces like Gregoria McGuire and Roxana Woychesin, former course participants, alongside eager newcomers ready to begin their journey.

LEAP alumni–Brian Aldaco, Bianca Saldierna, Ademide Adedokun, and Megan Chapa–also in attendance, perfectly timed to coincide with LEAP’s upcoming 20th anniversary celebration and the launch of new initiatives.

I then had the chance to offer my own words of welcome — thanking everyone for their incredible support and emphasizing that this event was truly a celebration for all: those who had been naturalized, those beginning the journey, and those supporting this civic milestone.

Then came the moment I’d been looking forward to — introducing Christina Sato, who so graciously agreed to share her journey and beautiful words with us. Christina Sato is an accomplished actress, singer, and University of Texas at Austin graduate who interned for former U.S. Senator Kay Bailey Hutchison and has built an impressive career bridging entertainment and public service.

Christina spoke beautifully about three important themes, with one particularly powerful message about the importance of an invitation…

…recalling that she first met Professor Yawn in an elevator, three years ago. That chance meeting, followed by some networking, led to the invitation to speak at this event.

She tied this concept perfectly to the crowd and their purpose, making everyone feel the significance of being present and being welcomed into community.

Her story was one of unexpected turns and beautiful detours. Sato shared how she began her career with aspirations in public service, only to find life taking her down different paths-through entertainment, through various roles and opportunities that she never initially imagined. Rather than viewing these changes as setbacks, she embraced them as part of life’s natural rhythm. Her journey wasn’t linear, and she owned that truth with grace and authenticity.

For the naturalized citizens in the room– many of whom had taken long, winding roads to reach that point–her story struck a personal note. For those still on their journey toward citizenship, her message offered hope, encouragement, and a reminder that every experience brings us closer to where we’re meant to be.

The evening then shifted to something wonderfully fun–Lotería! For those unfamiliar with this traditional game, it’s similar to bingo but with a uniquely cultural twist.

We played a couple of rounds, giving away prizes to lucky winners throughout the evening, with the help of volunteers Andrea Torres, Olivia Discon, and Laura Juarez Ordonez.

It was a beautiful reminder that while we gather for serious purposes – citizenship, community, growth – we also come together to celebrate, to play, and to enjoy each other’s company.

As the celebration concluded, we announced the next phase of our program: our Spring 2026 Citizenship Course. This course will be held on April 2nd, 9th, 16th, 23rd, and 30th at The Woodlands Center, to support immigrants as they work toward their citizenship, providing the resources, guidance, and encouragement they need to succeed.

A heartfelt thank-you to everyone who made this evening possible: the volunteers and LEAP alumni whose ongoing support sustains the program, Christina Sato for generously sharing her time, inspiring story, and wisdom, and most importantly, the naturalized citizens and immigrants whose journeys continue to inspire this program and remind us of why it initially started.

Here’s to the journey ahead–and to all the events yet to come!

For more information about LEAP’s citizenship program or our upcoming Spring course, email Professor Mike Yawn at mikeyawn@shsu.edu.

Inside the CIA with William Burns

By Mayra Sofia Soto

The World Affairs Council and the Baker Institute for Public Policy welcomed William Burns, the 8th Director of the Central Intelligence Agency, who provided an insightful and engaging discussion on the complexities of global affairs, drawing on his experiences in diplomacy, intelligence and leadership during some of the most pivotal moments in recent history.

During the networking session, we had the pleasure of reconnecting with Wendall Braniff, whose continued generosity and support at various WAC events have been invaluable. She introduced us to Vitalii Tarasiuk, the Consul General of Ukraine in Houston, who shared about his diplomatic career and offered advice for those pursuing careers in international affairs.

After an introduction by WAC CEO Maryanne Maldonado and WAC Director of Advancement Sandija Bayot, Ambassador David Satterfield took the microphone to moderate the event.

Director William Burns is one of the most distinguished American diplomats of the modern era. Over a career spanning more than three decades, he served under six U.S. presidents from both political parties, earning a reputation for integrity, strategic vision and effectiveness. He was the first career diplomat to lead the CIA as Director and previously served as Deputy Secretary of State, Ambassador to Russia and Jordan and in numerous senior roles at the State Department.

Throughout the discussion, Ambassador Burns reflected on the United States evolving role in a complex global landscape. Burns reflected on the challenge posed by Russia’s aggression and the damage Vladimir Putin has inflicted not only on Ukraine but on Russian society itself. He suggested that while Putin’s regime has entrenched authoritarianism and nationalism, its longevity is uncertain, as corruption, stagnation and battlefield losses erode both public confidence and elite unity. Burns cautioned against assuming rapid change after Putin, predicting a messy transition but holding hope that over time Russia could move beyond autocracy. Lastly, he noted that how the U.S. and its allies sustain support for Ukraine will shape global perception of American leadership for decades to come.

He described China under Xi Jinping as America’s most formidable long-term competitor, emphasizing the need for a disciplined strategy that balances confrontation, cooperation and competition while avoiding complacency in technologies like artificial intelligence and quantum computing. Turning to the Middle East, he recounted his efforts to negotiate ceasefires and hostages releases in Gaza, stressing that sustainable peace requires both humanitarian compassion and political will. Burns also discussed the fragility of global alliances, noting that America’s greatest comparative advantage lies in the trust of its partners, something that must be continually earned through reliability and measured leadership.

On domestic matters, he voiced concern over efforts to politicize public institutions, warning that retribution disguised as reform undermines the integrity of career civil servants and weakens U.S decision making.

Burns closed with advice for young professionals, encouraging them to pursue public service with integrity and courage. He concluded with a touch of humor and timeless wisdom from former Secretary of State James Baker, under whom he served: Baker’s “7 Ps – Proper Preparation plus Perspiration Prevents Piss Poor Performance” Emphasizing the importance of learning your craft, being prepared, and being ready for when the moment comes.

LEAP at the River Oaks Theatre: A Night with Nosferatu and the Invincible Czars

Nine students and former students with The Center for Law, Engagement, and Politics (LEAP) attended a screening of the 1922 silent horror film Nosferatu at the historic River Oaks Theatre in Houston, Texas. While this outing certainly carried the spirit of the post-Halloween season and the eerie charm associated with early cinematic horror, it also reflected the Center’s continued effort to expand students’ engagement with the humanities, exposure to diverse forms of storytelling, and expanded cultural horizons.

The River Oaks Theatre itself provided a fitting environment. Its historic charm and architecture evoke a theatrical experience that captures some of the magic of silent and golden-age cinema.

Enhancing the screening was a live musical performance by The Invincible Czars, who created the film’s soundtrack live on stage with instrumentation ranging from classical to experimental. Their approach complemented the film with sounds that provided humor, subtle tension, and dramatic intensity.

After the screening, the LEAP students were able to meet the band members and take photographs with the band, while also purchasing movie posters.

While the subject matter — a vampire narrative involving shadows, dread, and ancient evil — is unquestionably spooky, the evening itself reinforced a central purpose of LEAP: experiential learning that blends the artistic, the cultural, and the civic.

Movies like Nosferatu do not just entertain; they help illuminate how societies imagine danger, power, and the supernatural.

This outing offered students a unique opportunity to experience history, art, and performance simultaneously — in a way that was appropriately seasonal, academically rich, and wonderfully haunting.

A Time to Gain, A Time to Lose

To Everything There is a Season…

After a long day of Moot Court competition and work that persisted late into the night, our LEAP competitors enjoyed the mercy of an extra hour of sleep, courtesy of Daylight Savings Time. But the sun rises even after the longest nights, and we–Madison Thurkettle, Allison Lindle, Katie Wilson, and our Day Two competitors, Ashton Droll and Madison Cawthon–hastened to the Shepard Broad College of Law to extend our Moot Court season.

A Time to Keep…

With admonishments to arrive no later than 9:30am, we arrived early, in time to witness the coin toss that would decide whether we were representing the petitioner or respondent.

Our competition was Connor Rust and Inanna Khansa from the University of Chicago, and winning the coin toss, they chose to represent the respondent–which was fine with us.

A Time to Build Up…

A win in this round would place us at the Preliminary Nationals, scheduled for Virginia in January. For Maddie, who wasn’t expecting to get this far, much of the pressure had been shed from her shoulders. Ashton, on the other hand, animated by what many judges described as “a passion for moot court,” felt the pressure and the need to win. Both, however, experienced the ups and downs of preparing for competition.

Both sensed immediately the elevated level of competition. “We could cite the record and the cases,” observed Droll, “but Rust and Khansa took it a step further. They cited the record and then cited cases within the cases.”

A Time to Speak, a Time to Keep Silence…

Nonetheless, Droll and Cawthon executed their best performances. Heeding the Biblical admonition that “a fool’s voice is known by a multitude of words,” they answered questions directly, demonstrating their knowledge of the cases and applying that knowledge judiciously and to the point. “They were,” noted Wilson, “more polished than they’ve been the entire Moot Court season.”

In the end, however, it wasn’t quite enough. Rust and Khansa edged out Droll and Cawthon on two ballots (one was decided by three points out of 1,600) and solidly on a third. Despite the loss, the team members’ outlook remained undimmed, happy with their portion, and equipped with a focus on a new season and a renewed sense of purpose.

Two Shall Withstand…

The finals pitted Anna Barker and Steven Abraham (University of Central Florida) and Christy Banker and Gaege Gobezie (Liberty University)–the latter of whom had taken the tournament’s first and second-place individual orator honors.

Facing a hot panel–which included the Dean of the Law School (Olympia Duhart), the Director of Advocacy Programs for the Shepard Broad College of Law (Joe Lester), and an animated Criminal Law Professor (Megan Chaney)–

…the four competitors showed impressive knowledge of the cases, verbal agility, and the enviable skill of anticipating the judges’ line of questioning and redirecting it. It was, LEAP students noted, a lesson to learn.

The contest was close, perhaps the closest of the tournament…

…with Anna Barker and Steve Abraham of the University of Central Florida edging Christy Banker and Gaege Gobezie of Liberty University. The match was decided by two points.

Every Man Should Eat and Drink…

With competitions behind us and much before us, we decided on a meal at Rocco’s Tacos, which was recommended by Orlando Magazine and Eater. The recommendation was well founded.

We began with guacamole (excellent), which had just the right mix of tomato, salt, and garlic; chips and a salsa sampler, with the salsa verde and the smoked salsa being the favorites; and sauteed shrimp, which were impressively tender and bursting with flavor. It was a good way to begin the meal.

Our entrees were equally impressive. Half of our group ordered salads, while Ashton sampled the cheese enchiladas (featuring creamy Chihuahuan cheese); Professor Yawn tried the veggie and pork tacos; and Cawthon explored the Chorizo tacos, featuring Cotija cheese.

The food was excellent and filling, and the time at the table offered a respite from a competition and an opportunity for reflection.

Patient in Spirit…

With the tournament receding into a remembrance of former things, we contemplated the transitional and cyclical nature of things.

Each of us has enjoyed a new experience on the trip, whether it be a new food experience, learning photography with a mirrorless camera, or simply our first travel without family in tow. For all of us, this was our first Moot Court competition.

And while it is natural to see a cohort go and a cohort come, four of our five competitors will still be at Sam Houston State University next year and–at least following the high of competition–are interested in participating again in Moot Court, renewing a cycle of education, experience, and exploration.

And with these reflections on the good of our labor, we returned to the hotel, where we looked forward to the sweet sleep of the hard working and to the start of a new day.

From the Bench to the Classroom: Lessons and Knowledge with Judge Devan Dawson and Judge Kim Webb

by Madison Thurkettle

Ever wondered what it’s like to serve as a judge in your own community? The SHSU Pre-Law Society had the chance to find out firsthand during a moderated Q&A with Judge Devan Dawson, Municipal Judge for the City of Huntsville, and Judge Kim Webb, Justice of the Peace for San Jacinto County, Precinct 4.

From balancing private practice with public service to campaigning for elected office, both judges offered honest insight into the realities of serving at the local level and the unique paths that brought them to the bench.

Judge Devan Dawson, a Baylor Law alumna, shared how her path to law began unexpectedly. Originally an English major planning to teach, a family connection introduced her to the legal field, and she never looked back. Today, she divides her time between her private practice and her duties as a municipal judge, where she handles fine-only misdemeanors and civil cases. Her advice to aspiring law students was simple yet meaningful: “You can help people in countless ways, even something as small as a traffic ticket.”

Judge Kim Webb offered a different but equally inspiring journey. A graduate of Sam Houston State University and the University of Houston, she began her career in law enforcement and worked her way up to captain before pursuing public administration, and eventually, the bench. As a Justice of the Peace, she oversees fine-only misdemeanors, civil cases up to $20,000, inquests, and evictions. Judge Webb emphasized how women bring valuable communication and empathy skills to both law enforcement and the judiciary, qualities that strengthen fairness and trust within the community.

Above all, both judges reminded us that justice must not only be done but be seen to be done, and that every person should leave their courtroom knowing they were treated fairly.

The students were inspired by their humility, perseverance, and commitment to public service. It was a reminder that pursuing law is not just about cases and codes, but about people, integrity, and making justice visible in every community we serve.

With that renewed sense of purpose, our Pre-Law Society turned their attention to organizational business.

and to the big issue of the night: elections. Ten candidates, both new and returning, presented thoughtful speeches about the positive changes they hoped to bring to the organization.

We are proud to introduce of our newly elected PLS Officers: VP of Marketing, Jackeline Balbuena;

VP of Finance/Treasurer, Nataly Elizondo;

…and Secretary, Madison Cawthon.

Congratulations to our new officers, and PLS is ready to make this an incredible year.

Trauma-Informed Interaction with Children

Samuel Harrison

Working with children–especially ones who have experienced trauma–is difficult, but these are the exact situations in which deescalation techniques are most needed. Deborah Sweet and Julie Stanwood–experts in working with children with the Massachusetts Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Children–discussed techniques for working with children as part of the Student Legal and Mediation Services “Conflict Resolution Month” programming.

Strategies for Before, During, and After Trauma Response

Children who have experienced trauma will respond differently to potential conflict, and it’s important for caregivers and professionals to know how to manage those situations. Establishing routines is part of this process, allowing the child to see that his/her expectations are being met and establishing a sense of predictability.

When stress is introduced to the environment, it’s important for the caregiver to notice it, and to respond prior to its escalation. Children who have experienced much trauma will respond to stress differently, and these reactions may resemble a “shutdown” or “defiance,” but which are actually just coping mechanisms to what the child has experienced previously. When possible, the caregiver should offer choices to the child–but not too many!–offering a sense of control.

When stress is escalated, it’s important to stay calm, to validate feelings, but to not overwhelm the child with too much discussion. The motto “Connection First–Correction Later” is good to follow.

Following a period of high stress, allow the child to re-regulate while reinforcing the child’s safety and belonging, giving the student the opportunity to “repair.” When appropriate, brainstorm with the child to think of solutions to the problem or ways to prevent such situations in the future.

Conclusion

Through a reliance on the three “R’s”–Regulate, Relate, Reason–caregivers, teachers, social workers and others can respond to trauma-affected children effectively. By following the tips provided by Stanwood and Sweet and by relying on a belief that all interactions are an opportunity for healing, children’s emotional stability can be improved which, in turn, improves society.

Many thanks to Dr. Gene Roberts and the Student Legal and Mediation Services for offering this program.

The Future of Public Service

by Michelle Cardenas

Another inspiring evening for the LEAP Ambassadors and fellow students took place at the World Affairs Council event featuring John B. Sherman, Dean of the Bush School of Government & Public Service at Texas A&M University. The event was held at the Junior League in Houston, a nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting volunteerism, developing women’s leadership, and improving communities through service, providing a fitting backdrop for an evening focused on public service. Even away from Huntsville, connections to home were everywhere, including a plaque honoring Junior League donors such as the Houston Endowment, which has ties to our hometown.

The evening began with Maryanne Maldonado, CEO of the World Affairs Council, who shared the Council’s mission and upcoming events. Dean Sherman was then introduced by his childhood friend, TJ Raguso, who spoke warmly about Sherman’s lifelong commitment to public service. From a young age, Sherman’s dedication to serving others was evident, and his friend’s introduction captured that spirit perfectly.

Dean Sherman shared insights from his remarkable career, which spans over 30 years of leadership in national security and technology. A Texas A&M graduate and former Corps Commander of the Corps of Cadets, Sherman has held senior positions at the CIA, the National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency, and the Office of the Director of National Intelligence. Most recently, he served as Chief Information Officer of the U.S. Department of Defense, overseeing the Pentagon’s global IT and cybersecurity operations.

He recounted stories from his time in public service, including being in the Situation Room during 9/11 and taking on unexpected leadership roles that required quick learning and high-stakes decision-making. Sherman emphasized that public service is not about money or prestige but about the fulfillment that comes from serving the nation and community. Reflecting on the words of President George H.W. Bush, he reminded us that public service is a calling–a commitment to something larger than oneself. He encouraged students to embrace opportunities, saying, “When an opportunity comes through, you always say yes.” His advice resonated deeply with many of us who have grown through LEAP, learning to take initiative and step into challenges.

Dean Sherman also discussed the Bush School and how it prepares students to lead through both rigorous academic curriculum and hands-on real-world experiences.

He encouraged students to pursue public service at any stage of life, noting that meaningful experience can come from unexpected places. He also highlighted that the Bush School is a top feeder into the CIA, illustrating the real-world opportunities available to students willing to embrace leadership roles.

Throughout his talk, Sherman addressed the evolving nature of global security. Leading the Pentagon’s IT and cybersecurity operations, he explained how modern warfare extends beyond physical combat to cyber attacks, satellite operations, and information breaches. Protecting the nation now requires innovation, vigilance, and strategic thinking in technology as much as in traditional defense.

He concluded on an uplifting note, encouraging everyone to be engaged citizens, contribute to their communities, and embrace innovation, particularly in technology. After the talk, we had the privilege of meeting Dean Sherman, who spent time speaking with students individually, asking about our goals and offering thoughtful guidance. For those aspiring to be attorneys, he encouraged us to follow our dreams. For those interested in public service or foreign affairs, he highlighted the fulfillment that comes from serving others, reminding us that career paths are not fixed and that each new skill, experience, or challenge can prepare us for opportunities we cannot yet imagine.

Following the formal event, we had a great opportunity to spend time with Dean Sherman in small groups, while also saying “hi” to Wendall Braniff, who has been very generous to us at various WAC events.

This kind of individualized interaction is a key part of what keeps us returning to the World Affairs Council events, but even in large groups, we have great opportunities to learn.

Dean Sherman’s guidance reinforced the importance of stepping into opportunities and giving back to the community– principles that are at the heart of the LEAP Center. Whether it is organizing events for the local community, participating in city and state internships, or serving through other civic initiatives, LEAP students actively embody the spirit of public service. Experiences like this event remind us that engaging with the world around us, learning from leaders, and stepping forward in our own communities are all part of preparing to be the next generation of public servants. Public service truly is a calling and through LEAP, we are already answering it.

Connecting with Global Leaders: LEAP at the Jesse H. Jones Awards Luncheon

Over the course of the year, the World Affairs Council brings in approximately 100 speakers in their mission to promote a “better understanding of the world.” This makes for busy day-to-day operations, but their workload is amplified once a year, when they host the Jones Luncheon and present the “Jones Award” for International Citizen of the Year. This year, with speakers such as Ambassador Mark Satterfield, author Daniel Yergin, and Bruce Neimeyer, they awarded their “International Citizen of the Year” Award to Michael Wirth, CEO of Chevron.

LEAP Students were sufficiently fortunate to attend, leaving at 8:15am from Huntsville for Houston…

…and volunteering with check-in and some basic set-up, while also continuing to benefit from the World Affairs Council’s extensive generosity to students. For us, this was another learning opportunity, folded into a volunteer opportunity as a bonus.

Ten LEAP students attended, helping as needed. Volunteers greeted guests at the entrance, distributed name tags, managed sign-ins, and assisted with table assignments, while others welcomed VIP members to their private lounge. Their professionalism and enthusiasm reflected LEAP’s continued commitment to civic engagement and hands-on learning experiences.

The awards ceremony featured a three-course meal.

…followed by remarks by many of our favorite people: the World Affairs Council Staff: CEO Maryanne Maldonado…

…the “International Citizen of the Year” Award Winner Wirth…

…Chief Programs Officer Ronan O’Malley…

… Chief Advancement Officer Sandija Bayot…

…Director of Programs Jahan Jafarpour…

…Director of Education Ethan Eyre…

…Data Analytics and Engagement Coordinator Eli Quezada…

…and local luminaries…

…and we also had the chance to work with Leo Scarparo, Maria Guarache, Cheri Rocha, and David Dennis, making it an enjoyable experience for us all.

Author and energy expert Daniel Yergin moderated a discussion with CEO Wirth, and the two discussed extensively the massive changes in the energy sector over the past forty years.

And even with these changes, eighty percent of all energy is derived from fossil fuels, which remain the most affordable and accessible sources of energy. And Texas, as it turns out, is the country’s largest producer of gasoline and natural gas–about twice as much as Florida or Pennsylvania, which rank second in the nation.

Following the moderated discussion, the World Affairs Council staff presented their “Global Leader Awards”–recognizing leaders in various contributions of international relations. With as many WAC events as we attend, it’s no surprise that we knew some of the winners, and it was nice to see some of our friends such as Emilio Armstrong be recognized for their good works.

While the main ceremony was wrapping up, the students had a chance to visit with Bruce Neimeyer, President of Shale Exploration with Chevron, discussed career opportunities in the industry, energy, and a general discussion of energy making. The students were well prepared, and we had an opportunity to see the students of Eric Tanner at Caney Creek High School, with whom we are partnering on a major project over the next year!

The key takeaway of this segment was that key skills can aid individuals in career diversity, allowing them to learn and grow, moving in different directions. Being open to opportunities and challenges was a key theme in the overall program, and a rewarding one for students who are seeking to understand themselves and others.

For most LEAP students, this was their first time attending the Jesse H. Jones Awards Luncheon. Regardless of experience, all agreed it was an inspiring and rewarding day; one that strengthened their understanding of global affairs and reaffirmed LEAP’s mission to connect students with leaders shaping the future.

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