Center for Law, Engagement, and Politics

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.

A Presidential Inauguration: Republic of Texas Variety

On October 22, 1836, Sam Houston was inaugurated as the first President of the Republic of Texas. This past Wednesday, October 22, 2025, marked the 189th anniversary of this event. With a full house…

…including many VIPs, the Museum celebrated in fun style, with the LEAP Ambassadors and a few other volunteers helping with the festivities.

The night started out with an introduction from the museum’s director, Derrick Birdsall, who noted some of the luminaries in the audience, including former President Jim Gaertner…

…artist Lee Jamison…

…Mayor Russell Humphrey…

…Commissioner Bill Daugette…

…General David Glaser…

…Mac and Leanne Woodward, Stephanie Fors…

…and many others. Graciously, he also mentioned the LEAP Ambassadors, who are celebrating their 20th Anniversary as a University group.

More to the point, however, he discussed Sam Houston’s massive legacy.

Matt Bethea also spoke, noting the importance of the Museum to the University and, on a more personal level, observed how this annual celebration was his favorite event!

Finally, Alisa White, President of the university, brought her husband, Elliott Herzlich, to the podium accompanied by much applause.

In a spirited speech, President White extolled many of Sam Houston’s virtues, while highlighting the need to have the courage to lead, even when it can result in mistakes. But everyone, just like Sam Houston, can work to their community better, and in so doing, they are leading.

Birdsall again took the podium, this time to unveil some of the Museum’s new additions. In particular, he pointed to artist Lee Jamison and Bill Dabaghi, who unveiled Jamison’s new portrait of Sam Houston, which will hang in a privileged spot in the rotunda.

Also on display was a new letter that volunteer written by Sam Houston in 1926, when he was a congressman from Tennessee. The letter was found on Ebay, by volunteer Bruce Wiliford…

…and he referred the find to Birdsall. After some sleuthing, Birdsall pulled the trigger and purchased the letter, which shines some light on Houston’s personal life and also larger issues, such as widespread dissatisfaction among elected officials with the electoral college.

We spoke with Mr. Jamison about the painting of Houston along with his painting of Old Main, both of which show how great he is at putting life into his artwork. Through these conversations, we learned about the attention to detail that goes into portraying such historic figures.

The night was filled with engaging conversations, laughter, and lots of learning. From the start of the evening when greeting doors, to the end of the night getting to walk around the museum the event was enjoyable and a great way to get more involved with the community.

Thank you to Derrick Birdsall for inviting us to such a wonderful event, it truly was a joy to hear and learn from everyone who attended!

We look forward to all of the continued impact the museum will have on our town!

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.

Celebrating Citizenship!

By Michelle Moya

Shortly after Election Day 2025—and just in time for the season of gratitude—the LEAP Center invites you to join us in celebrating what it means to be a citizen. The event will feature finger foods, Lotería with a civic twist, a guest speaker, and special recognition of newly naturalized citizens. Guests will also have access to information and resources for those interested in beginning their own journey toward U.S. citizenship.

The event is made possible through a grant from the National Partnership for New Americans and continues the LEAP Center’s long-standing commitment to civic education and community engagement.

A Tradition of Civic Learning

Since 2008, the Huntsville Public Library and the LEAP Center have partnered to offer a free citizenship preparatory course designed to help local immigrants prepare for the naturalization process. Over the past seventeen years, the program has served nearly 300 immigrants from 23 countries.

Led by Professor Mike Yawn with support from LEAP student volunteers, the course provides an overview of the naturalization process, from paperwork to oral interviews to English tests, and the civics portion consisting of 100 questions that immigrants must know. Immigrants enrolled in the course receive guidance on the 100-question civics test, as well as encouragement and practical support throughout the process.

The grant from the National Partnership for New Americans allows LEAP to extend this work to Montgomery County, beginning with the November celebration and continuing with a preparatory course in spring 2026.

A Community Celebration

On Saturday, November 8, 2025, from 4:00 to 5:30 p.m., the celebration will take place at the SHSU Woodlands Center. The event serves a dual purpose: honoring individuals who have recently achieved U.S. citizenship and welcoming those interested in learning about the naturalization process.

The program will feature a guest speaker who will share a few words on the importance of civic engagement and community participation. Afterward, guests are invited to enjoy conversation, fellowship, and rounds of Lotería—reimagined with a civic theme to honor the spirit of citizenship.

By bringing together naturalized citizens, aspiring citizens, and students, the celebration underscores the power of connection and culture. Citizenship — often taken for granted–embodies both rights and responsibilities; it provides a sense of confidence, freedom, and unity that strengthens our communities and our democracy.

In conjunction with this event, the LEAP Center will also announce the launch of its Spring 2026 Citizenship Preparatory Course, which will be offered in Montgomery County for the first time.

If you would like to attend the celebration, please scan the QR code below to register or contact Professor Mike Yawn at mike.yawn@shsu.edu.

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.

B-I-N-G-O with the Boys & Girls Club!

by Olivia Discon

Community. Fundraising. Bingo Daubers. Over the weekend, the LEAP Center had the pleasure of sponsoring a table at the Boys and Girls Club Oktoberfest Bingo fundraiser–a fun-filled event that contributes to a great cause.

The Boys and Girls Club of Walker County is a nonprofit organization which aims to provide programming and activities for the youth in our community. They do a fantastic job of engaging children in disciplines such as the arts, lifeskills, education, leadership, and fitness. They have served a total of 7,198 youth in Walker County, and 91% of their students in the last year were promoted to the next grade level. The Boys and Girls Club, under the impressive leadership of Michelle Spencer, recognizes the importance of engagement when it comes to community-wide impact.

The fundraiser also serves as a learning experience for LEAP students. Having an understanding of how a nonprofit can rally its community together is more nuanced than games and door prizes.

Not only is it an opportunity for the Boys and Girls Club to raise funds for their important programming, it is also an opportunity for community members to engage with one another, learn more about the various entities and organizations that make up that community, and in turn, inherently strengthen relationships and build consensus among them.

Many of our core values are the same, and regardless of generation, political ideology, or background, events such as these prove that community rises above all of those things.

BJ McMichael emceed the event…

…Kevin McMillian served as auctioneer …

…and there were numerous friendly faces in the crowd–in fact, too many to name. A few to note were Judge Tracy Sorenson, Judge Colt Christian…

…Mac and Leanne Woodward, Sam Houston Memorial Museum Director Derrick Birdsall…

…Brenda Poe…

…and of course, Michelle Spencer, the Director of the Boys and Girls Club of Walker County!

At our table, we had the pleasure of joining with Roxana Alvarado Martinez–a former participant and current success story of the Citizenship Preparatory Course that LEAP facilitates each spring. She is a great friend of LEAP.

Ten rounds of bingo ensued.

While Roxana and I tried to curry favor with the fates by creating fortune tellers, we unfortunately did not have any winners at our table. However, Stephanie and Sofia came pretty close a few times!

Slowly but surely, we began to lose hope. However, Yajaira, a recent SHSU graduate and friend of LEAP, won a door prize!

In all, our table had a great time of conversation, anticipation, and for some more than others…

…using the bingo daubers to create what can only be described as an abstract work of art in between calls.

We enjoyed supporting a great cause for our community and building connections and relationships with some new, bright students–which can be considered a win in and of itself!

Mediation–and its many Applications

Dr. Larry Schooler Shares Real-World Lessons in Conflict Resolution

By Elizabeth Werts, Pre-Law Society

The Sam Houston State University Pre-Law Society was honored to participate in Conflict Resolution Month, sponsored by the Student Legal and Mediation Services, and hear from Dr. Larry Schooler, Assistant Professor in the Department of Communication Studies at The University of Texas at Austin, for an engaging discussion on the importance of communication, empathy, and understanding in conflict resolution.

With his extensive experience within government agencies and community groups as a mediator, Dr. Schooler emphasized the importance of conflict in development. He encouraged us not to concentrate on ‘winning’ an argument, but to listen.

“We spend so much time preparing to advocate,” he said, “but rarely enough time preparing to understand.”

Throughout the session, Dr. Schooler shared real-world examples from his work in mediation, public engagement, and even his family dynamics. He illustrated the role each party plays in an argument and how to become an objective assistant, focused on resolution and relationships. If each individual maintains patience, an agreement can be formed through consensus or acceptance of different views. He encouraged students to think critically about conflict in legal, professional, and interpersonal contexts, as well as the role of empathy as a tool for resolution.

We’ve each experienced conflict in multiple capacities, yet there is also room for growth in understanding and tactics to achieve a universal result.

“When formal education ends,” Dr. Schooler said, “being a student of life doesn’t.”

The event concluded with an open Q&A dedicated exclusively for Pre-Law Society students, where we asked thoughtful questions about careers in mediation, negotiation tactics, and the role of emotional intelligence in law. Dr. Schooler left attendees with a challenge: to seek understanding before seeking victory.

The event was part of a broader effort by the Pre-law Society to expose students to diverse perspectives and prepare them for the professional and personal challenges ahead, but it was made possible by the Student Legal and Mediation Services Center, which has put on Conflict Resolution Month programming since 2103 in partnership with the Dispute Resolution Center of Montgomery County.

As one member reflected after the meeting, “It reminded me that law isn’t just about rules and arguments—it’s about people.”

The LEAP Center and its students have been fortunate to partner with the Student Legal and Mediation Services for more than a decade. Many thanks to Dean Gene Roberts, Victoria McClendon-Leggett, and the many good student workers in the SLMS office for making this event possible. A full calendar of Conflict Resolution Month events can be found here.

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