International Affairs – 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.

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.

Navigating International Relations With Secretary Mike Pompeo

By Michelle Moya

It was a rare lunch event for us with the World Affairs Council. With the LEAP Ambassadors all working part-time jobs and enrolled full-time in classes, getting away for a day-time event isn’t easy. But when students have the chance to meet Mike Pompeo–the 70th U.S. Secretary of State, former CIA Director, and four-term Congressman from Kansas–and Ambassador David Satterfield, we make accommodations.

The event format included a full hour dedicated to networking before the program began–a structure that exemplifies why World Affairs Council events are so valuable for professional development. During this time, we had the opportunity to meet several professionals, including Attorney Wendall Corrigan Braniff, whose advice and civic encouragement added a great deal to our afternoon.

Alongside a delicious meal…

…the luncheon featured a discussion that moved seamlessly between grand strategy and practical governance. Secretary Pompeo, drawing on his experience as CIA Director and top diplomat, offered insights into the challenges facing American leadership in an increasingly complex world.

Following an introduction by World Affairs Council CEO Maryanne Maldonado…

…Ambassador David Satterfield…

…moderated the discussion with Secretary Pompeo, who emphasized that global conflicts stem from (1) a failure of American leadership, (2) the influence of powerful and negative international actors (chief among the Chinese Communist Party), and the ineffectiveness of international institutions. He is, however, a firm believer in the United States’ role internationally.

The conversation touched on several key international relationships. Secretary Pompeo stressed that achieving national objectives requires partnerships worldwide, acknowledging that not all allies share the same governance systems and how some relationships are built on shared interests rather than shared values. He noted that recent events have done more to energize NATO and European defense spending than decades of diplomatic pressure.

One particularly interesting topic concerned Houston directly: Secretary Pompeo discussed closing the Chinese consulate in Houston, revealing it had been conducting what he described as the largest spy operation ever directed against the United States. He characterized the U.S.-China relationship as a decades-long economic competition rather than an immediate military threat, noting that this competition extends far beyond government–affecting businesses, universities, and local institutions across America.

The afternoon took a more local turn when Secretary Pompeo shifted from international affairs to civic engagement. His most passionate remarks focused on participation in community institutions–school boards, city councils, HOAs, and PTAs.

He posed some direct questions to the room: How many people had attended a PTA meeting in the last decade? When was the last time anyone went to a city council meeting just to observe?

To illustrate his point, he shared a humorous story about serving on his HOA board–becoming deeply invested in a dispute over shake shingles, only to admit he’d forgotten which side he supported decades later. His point resonated: while thousands rally for various causes, local meetings where decisions directly affect communities often struggle to draw audiences. He argued that America’s real strength comes from people willing to do the unglamorous work of local governance.

Pompeo also spoke candidly about education, particularly the state of K–12 public schools. He expressed concern over declining test scores and connected educational strength directly to America’s long-term national success. Without a strong foundation in civics, history, and critical thinking, he argued, other national achievements lose their significance. His recommendation was straightforward: get involved with local school boards, support strong candidates, or run yourself.

Most interestingly, he emphasized the importance of maintaining trust in America’s institutions–the FBI, federal courts, and the judicial system. He noted that these institutions are what set America apart globally, and they must remain above political manipulation to maintain their effectiveness and public trust.

Secretary Pompeo’s message was one of practical optimism. Despite challenges, he expressed confidence in America’s direction–but emphasized that success depends on active citizenship rather than who occupies any particular office. Foreign policy matters, he argued, but so does showing up to your local school board meeting. Both require the same fundamental commitment to civic duty.

The luncheon was a meaningful reminder of how interconnected global leadership and local involvement truly are. From honoring public service at the Houston Police Memorial to hearing Secretary Pompeo reflect on America’s role in the world, the afternoon offered both perspective and valuable networking opportunities.

As always, we’re grateful to the World Affairs Council of Houston for providing opportunities that expand our understanding of international affairs, and we are grateful for Ms. Braniff for her hospitality, her tips, and for sharing her knowledge with us!

Outside the Classroom; Inside the CIA

LEAP Ambassadors enjoy learning in the classroom, a fact made evident by a collective 3.81 GPA. But the special part of the program is the learning outside of the classroom, where we work to expand our professional networks, learn new information, and venture outside our comfort zones. Such outcomes were on full display at the World Affairs Council‘s “Inside the CIA” event featuring Michael Ard.

A former CIA Analyst now teaching international affairs at Johns Hopkins University, Ard took us on a far-ranging tour of the CIA and the world in a discussion facilitated by everyone’s favorite moderator, Ronan O’Malley.

The CIA oversees 11 centers and undertakes, according to Ard, four major activities:

Analysis
Collection
Covert Action
Counterintelligence

Obviously, these actions involve sensitive operations, and Ard noted that this can lead to conflict with the rest of the world, the Congress, and, most notably, the President. The President relies heavily on the CIA, and when operations do not go well, it can lead to negative consequences for the Chief Executive, which can, in turn, lead to strained relationships. Nixon, in particular, was distrustful, a fact punctuated by Ard, when he quoted Nixon: “What are those clowns in Langley doing? Reading the newspaper?”

But it wasn’t just Nixon: JFK felt burned after The Bay of Pigs disaster in Cuba; Congress was disillusioned during the Church Hearings in the 1970s, when many of the CIA’s activities came to light; and George W. Bush, according to Ard, was sorely disappointed in the CIA’s investigation into Weapons of Mass Destruction (WMD) in Iraq.

Speaking of which, during Q&A, the audience asked whether the Bush Administration put pressure on the CIA to find what it wanted to find: WMD. Ard said, “No.”

He encouraged the audience to read the Silberman-Robb report, noting that the biggest problem in Iraq was that Hussein wanted some countries (his regional enemies) to believe he had WMD, and he wanted us to believe he didn’t. This caused him to act with much furtiveness, which was then interpreted as guilty behavior. It wasn’t correct, he noted, but it was a reasonable conclusion.

Ard was also asked whether any movies get the CIA right. The former analyst noted he doesn’t watch a lot of movies, and he was generally dismissive (“they’re movies”), but he noted that “Argo” had the right feel, and “The Sum of All Fears” captured some of the banter among analysts.

Following the event, Dr. Ard put on his professorial hat, and spoke to us as students for a while.

Even as he noted the challenges associated with recent budget cuts, he was encouraging, prompting us to dream big, take opportunities, and to be assertive in putting our goals into action.

WAC Event Highlights Filipino Cuisine and Contributions

Over the years, the World Affairs Council (WAC) has exposed LEAP students (and many other students) to new cultures, concepts, and speakers, greatly enriching our education. Last week, WAC did it again, offering an intriguing look at the culture of the Philippines in another of their “Culinary Passport” series featuring moderator Saege Anzueto; Dr. Riza Mauricio, a Professor at UTHealth Houston; Cybil Pallugna-Saenz, President of the Filipino American National Historical Society; Nathaniel Uy, President of the Filipino Graduate Student Association at Rice University; and artist Nixxio Castrillo.

The event was held at Houston’s Gerry’s Grill, a restaurant that originated in the Philippines, then migrated to California, before reaching its apex in Houston. With approximately 40 guests for this event alone, the restaurant provided a wonderful menu that included Lumpiang Shanghai (Filipino eggrolls), Chicken Skewers, (probably) Bistek Pinoy, Pancit Bami, and Chop Suey. The food was wonderful; the restaurant did a great job curating the food choices. Although everyone expressed satisfaction with all the meals, there was probably a consensus that the Bistek Pinoy was especially good, both tender and flavorful.

The speakers offered perspectives that were as diverse as the food. Professor Mauricio, not surprisingly, stressed the importance of Filipinos in health care, noting the large numbers and impressive contributions that Filipinos have made in nursing, particularly at the Texas Medical Center.

She noted with pride that May 13 of this year was named “Filipino Nurses Day,” while also noting with some regret that it took so long for these contributions to be recognized.

Pallugna-Saenz discussed the contributions the Filipino American National Historical Society has made in archiving Filipino contributions, while also expressing a desire to grow the organization.

Nixxio Castrillo made note of his approach to art, highlighting some of the materials he uses (copper, brass, stainless steel) which require a detailed, nuanced approach–much like that of fine jewelry–to achieve the desired effect.

And Nathaniel Uy spoke specifically to the young professionals in the audience, encouraging them to build a foundation for their future careers, take risks, and to treat the world “as [their] oyster. He knows of which he speaks.

When he left the Philippines to attend Rice, he scheduled a visit with the Filipino consulate. He wanted help adapting to a new country, but he also, as he put it, “just wanted the Consul to know who I was.”

As we have come to expect at WAC events, the evening was informative, interesting, and not least, tasty. We enjoyed meeting the distinguished speakers, other guests, and, of course, seeing our friends at the World Affairs Council.

It’s always fun at a World Affairs Council event, especially when food is involved, and tonight was no different.

World Affairs Council– Qatar

by Olivia Discon

Even during the summer, LEAP Ambassadors stay engaged in opportunities to learn more about the world and the issues shaping it. Recently, we attended a World Affairs Council event focused on Qatar, featuring a panel of experts with deep backgrounds in diplomacy, energy, and Gulf region politics.

Sandija Bayot introduced the distinguished panel, which included Ambassador Chase Untermeyer, who served as U.S. Ambassador to Qatar under President George W. Bush from 2004 to 2007. He has worked across all levels of government over a four-decade career. He was joined by Dr. Jim Krane, who specializes in Middle East energy policy at Rice University’s Baker Institute, and Dr. Kristian Coates Ulrichsen, who focuses on Gulf State politics and international relations. The event was moderated by the wonderful Ronan O’Malley.

Ambassador Untermeyer began the discussion with a historical overview of Qatar’s development.

Once a relatively quiet country with limited economic activity, Qatar’s fortunes changed with the discovery and export of its vast natural gas reserves. The country also timed the development of its port infrastructure well, aligning with broader global shifts.

Today, Qatar ranks as the wealthiest country in the world per capita, while also being one of the highest emitters of carbon per person. Interestingly enough, Qatar is the only Gulf country to not commit to net-zero emissions–outpacing U.S. emissions nearly five-fold!

Much of the discussion focused on Qatar’s strategic position. Located in a complex region and bordered by major players like Iran and Saudi Arabia, the country takes a pragmatic approach to diplomacy.

Qatar maintains a posture of being “friendly, but firm,” navigating relationships with the U.S. and neighboring countries carefully while preserving its own interests.

After the event, we had the opportunity to meet and briefly chat with the speakers.

Ambassador Untermeyer very kindly signed copies of his book that every young professional should read, How Important People Act.

Though it was a rainy drive into Houston, the event left us–and the sun–rejuvenated. Having attended this event, especially with two LEAP alums, was rewarding. We always enjoy WAC’s programming, but this is one for the books!

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