The holiday season is a time for generosity, community spirit, and simple acts of kindness—and few events capture that spirit as fully as KSAM Radio 101.7’s annual M*A*S*H* (Make A Smile Happen) Christmas Gift Drive. As Huntsville residents prepare for the festive season, KSAM is once again inviting–and LEAP is also assisting–the community effort to make the holidays brighter for local families, children, and even four-legged friends.
Located in the HEB Parking lot, M*A*S*H* tents will be open for 21 hours on Wednesday and Thursday (10am-6pm, 6am-4pm, respectively), providing a convenient drop-off spot for donors. Community members are encouraged to bring non-perishable food, new toys, and pet supplies, with LEAP volunteers on hand to help unload, sort, and inventory.
When deciding how to allocate their time, the LEAP Ambassadors ask several questions, including:
Does this fit our mission?
Is this a meaningful contribution to the community?
Do we have the resources to do this well?
Can another group do it better?
With M*A*S*H*, this is an easy call, and it is the fifth year the Ambassadors have assisted with the program–long-term relationships being another hallmark of LEAP operations.
For KSAM Radio, the MASH Gift Drive is more than an annual event—it is a reflection of their longstanding involvement in the community–in fact, they just celebrated their 86th anniversary of being on-air in Huntsville!
For LEAP Ambassadors, it’s a way to contribute to their community while learning more about it. And for community members, it’s an opportunity to give back in a meaningful, tangible way–and to Make a-A Smile Happen!
M*A*S*H* will be in operation again today from 6am-4pm in the HEB parking lot. Stop by and say “hi”!
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: thevolunteers 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.
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.
The SHSU Lowman Student Center Orange Ballroom was filled with the warmth of holiday spirit and community generosity this past weekend, as CASA of Walker County hosted its annual “Christmas in July” Bingo Fundraiser.
With nearly 500 attendees–including, of course, LEAP students–there to support CASA, the event was a reflection of the community’s commitment to children in foster care.
The event featured 15 lively rounds of bingo…
…which was expertly MC’d by Terrence Bell…
…a silent auction, and a live auction of artwork created by children involved in CASA programming.
Raffle prizes included high-value items such as a $1,500 VISA gift card and diamond jewelry, while (some) guests embraced the evening’s “Gingerbread Christmas” theme with the contradictory summer holiday attire.
The fundraiser supports CASA’s ongoing efforts to recruit, train, and supervise volunteers who serve as advocates for children involved in the child welfare system. And while CASA is a national organization, it is managed locally, with dedicated staff such as Kim Weiser (Director)…
…Laura Green (Development Director/Event Planner)…
Rachel Drake (Program Director), Sharee Brabits (Advocate Supervisor) and Katy Thompson (Advocate Supervisor) overseeing Walker, San Jacinto, and Trinity counties.
Also on hand were many of its board members, including SHSU’s own Victoria White, who helped MC the event–she also won a Bingo game!
…and Malori Martin, Assistant District Attorney with the Walker County District Attorney’s Office…
…among many others.
For LEAP, it was a great opportunity to bring together students who have spent at least part of the summer in disparate places. Michelle Cardenas spent much of the summer interning in Austin for Governor Greg Abbott; Makenna McDaniel moved from internship (in Austin, with Rep. Will Metcalf) to another (Huntsville, with Rep. Trey Wharton)…
Olivia Discon has worked at the City of Huntsville; Sofia Soto moved to Huntsville to intern with the City;
Michelle Moya is still living in Montgomery County, while commuting to Huntsville and working for Rep. Trey Wharton; and Olivia McCaughan drove in from Prosper, TX, specifically for this event.
Together, we had the opportunity to see many leaders of the University and the community. We spent a little time with President White…
…whose husband, Elliott…
…helped sponsor the event and gave everyone a Christmas ornament!
We also saw Mayor Humphrey and City Manager Scott Swigert;
…had a chance to catch up with Jolynn Wharton;
…said hi to council members Karen Denman and Vicki Mackenzie;
…caught up with Chamber President and CEO Jason Brandolini and his wife, Kendra Windisch…
…as well as many other community leaders.
And, of course, we had a chance to see a lot of people celebrate their victories in Bingo, including our own Stephanie Fors!
With events that are much fun, it’s sometimes difficult to remember that the true spirit behind the event is to do good for the area youth. But with the presence of the many good people in the Walker County community, much good did occur: more than $130,000 was raised for CASA, funds that will go to expand training and support for volunteers, bolster outreach efforts to underserved regions, and provide essential resources for children in need.
For these children, and for all who care about others, the event was truly a Christmas in July.
Yesterday marked the Lions Club second annual Health, Education, and Volunteer Fair, while also doubling as a celebration of the organization’s 75th Anniversary! Approximately 20 vendors were on hand to strengthen the community by promoting health, increasing awareness of educational options, and facilitating volunteerism in the community. LEAP, with alumna Victoria McClendon-Leggett–now with Student Legal and Mediation Services–were on hand to learn and engage.
With this many resources in one place, it was inevitable that we would run into friends such as Gregoria McGuire, Derrick Birdsall, Rob Hipp, and Stacy Loll. The Lions Club, festive in their celebration of their 75th Anniversary, had cake on hand, as well as a photo backdrop, with Lions Representatives from across the state on hand.
It was also a chance to re-connect with old friends. During our rovings, Huntsville Memorial Hospital employee Paula Morales came up to Professor Yawn, asking, “Are you Mr. Yawn?” When she received an affirmative reply, she noted that she was part of the “very first Citizenship Course” and that she had earned her citizenship in 2009. It was a pleasant and touching reunion and, in a sense, a microcosm of what promoting a stronger community is all about.
It may have been the Lions Club birthday/anniversary, but it was a really a gift to the community, one that was much appreciated by LEAP.
The LEAP Center’s primarily mission is civic engagement, and there is no way to fulfill that mission without being cognizant of the sacrifice made by those who have served in the US Military.
As a modest recognition of those who, as Abraham Lincoln first said, “gave the last full measure of devotion,” we joined the Huntsville, Texas Lions Club to place flags across a mile-and-a-half section of Huntsville for Memorial Day.
Origins of Memorial Day
Following the loss of more than 600,000 in the Civil War, Americans–in both the North and the South–struggled to recognize their dead in a manner that reflected the magnitude of loss. Drawing on regional traditions and the time-immemorial tradition of placing flowers on graves (a practice that goes back some 12,000 years), people gathered on different dates to mourn and remember.
Boalsburg, PA lays claim to a 1864 celebration; Charleston, SC had a large commemoration in 1865; the cities of Columbus Georgia and Columbus Mississippi had recognitions within a day of each other in 1866. Each of these cities makes a claim to be have hosted the first Memorial Day celebration.
But it was in 1868 that Major John Logan, of the political powerful Grand Army of the Republic, called for May 30 to serve as a “Decoration Day,” during which Americans would remember and place flowers on the graves of the Civil War dead. The date was purposive: the late spring date offered the “choicest” and most ample supply of flowers, the better to decorate the graves of the many dead.
The day of commemoration took hold, even as the Grand Army of the Republic faded from view. Firmly rooted in tradition by the end of the 19th century…
it was expanded to honor all those who died in service (rather than just the Civil War dead), and it was officially proclaimed a National Holiday in 1971 as part of the “Uniform Monday Holiday Act,” which moved the holiday to the last Monday in May.
The Lions Club Flag Project
As part of their ongoing service to the community, the Lions Club supervises their flag project, which involves placing flags in town on major holidays. For the past three years, the LEAP Center has assisted with that project, and while the LEAP Center plans no formal grave-visiting or flower-strewing, we have tried to ensure, as the Act originally hoped, that “no neglect, no ravages of time, testify to the present or to the coming generations that we have forgotten as a people the cost of a free and undivided republic.”
And after planting some 250 flags as part of a community project, we took a selfie in front of Lee Jamison’s new mural, which is a good reflection of that community and its history. Interestingly, Brian Blalock, a Lion and a photographer, was with us as we posed in front of the mural, which features a rendering of a photo taken by Blalock (note the“Waving Sammy” on the mural).
Apart from engaging in an act of service, today’s volunteer activity was also poignant because it involved Chrissy’s last LEAP-related event in Huntsville. She is moving to Lubbock in a week to begin her law school journey, and we were happy to be part of another event with her, especially one in service to the community.
It’s no secret that the future success of a community rests heavily on its leaders and its children. With that in mind, CASA of Walker County created its “All About Kids Expo” in 2024, an event designed to educate the public about children’s health services, local activities, education, and even financial investments that can take care of educations and other contingencies.
The event was a success, and this past weekend, CASA brought it back for its second year–and LEAP was there to document the good things the community has to offer to children and families.
The event ran smoothly, reflecting the deft touch of event coordinator Laura Green. More than 80 organizations set up booths, with groups from the Huntsville Memorial Hospital…
In addition, there were numerous children’s activities, with bouncy-houses, balloon artists, several games involving Velcro projectiles, and a mini-train.
Not to mention a petting zoo.
In short, there was fun for everyone!
There was also entertainment. Following an introduction to the event, attendees were able to see Maggie Collum’s Dance Studio participants perform…
…enjoy the colorful, joyful, and lively steps of Ballet Folklorico…
…and groove to the moves of the Junior GGs of Mance Park Middle School…
…and the Grenadier Guards of Huntsville High.
Of course, one of the key promoters of children’s success in Walker County is the entity that organized the Kids Expo: CASA of Walker County.
Established nationally in 1977, CASA provides crucial support to children who need “a voice” while in the custody of Child Protective Services.
Our local CASA covers the counties of Walker, San Jacinto, and Trinity Counties, while promoting events such as All About Kids Expo that make communities stronger.
Those interested in supporting or attending one of the aforementioned events, or who would like become an advocate, or who would like to donate should contact Laura Green at 936-291-2272 (ext. 105).
The weekend of April 12 was a vibrant celebration of community spirit in Huntsville, packed with events that really showed off the city’s sense of unity. After months of planning, registration, and preparation, it was incredibly rewarding to see Junk-A-Palooza come to fruition in Downtown Huntsville.
The City of Huntsville Main Street Program brings several annual events to Huntsville, and as intern for Main Street, my role this semester was helping with Junk-A-Palooza, which proved to be a success. With more than 100 vendors and an estimated 300-400 attendees, the event demonstrated its ability to bring people together and showcase community collaboration.
Junk-A-Palooza is a community-wide garage sale that gives people a chance to declutter and repurpose their old or unused items. Families, individuals, and groups set up booths filled with a wide variety of items, from unique treasures to everyday essentials—artwork, furniture, vintage items.
Following much work from Main Street Director Amanda Schillaci, Event Coordinator Angela Robinson, and myself, the event officially kicked off bright and early at 7 a.m., with booths set up ready to go and many already downtown checking out everything the booths had to offer.
One vendor featured a mystery box that sold out almost immediately, while one of the most memorable finds for me was collectable toys of red vintage cars.
This year’s Junk-A-Palooza coincided with the Wynne Home’s Easter Egg Hunt and the Pineapple Run, a 5K held in memory of Peyton Irwin. The race benefited the Peyton Irwin Foundation, which aims to educate others on the dangers of distracted driving while also awarding scholarships to students.
The Pineapple Run added to the festive atmosphere, with a bouncy castle, costume contest, and food stands supporting a great cause, not to mention the pineapple I purchased!
The combination of Junk-A-Palooza and the Pineapple Run created a day full of fun and community spirit in downtown Huntsville. Junk-A-Palooza was a huge success, thanks to the efforts of many community members.
The events showcased the best of Huntsville, highlighting its sense of unity and community spirit. Thank you to everyone who participated, volunteered, and attended!
Center for Law, Engagement, and Politics 