By Isis Hollis
Through the many roles he served in over his career, Alberto Gonzales gained valuable knowledge in helpful principles, career advice, and getting past setbacks. Once again, LEAP students had the opportunity to hear from Mr. Gonzales himself, along with David Yebra (formerly Colonel Yebra), the Senior Associate Vice Chancellor for Lone Star College.
After a fitting introduction from Michelle Cardenas, Mr. Gonzales showed us a short video featuring photos of his career highlights, a career that includes the first minority partner at Vinson & Elkins, Texas Supreme Court Justice, White House Counsel to President George W. Bush from 2001-2004 and Attorney General from 2005-2007. With this career, he was well qualified for his post-government role as Dean of the Belmont College of Law.
The floor quickly opened for questions, with many of us eager to absorb as much wisdom as we could from Mr. Gonzales.
He discussed his humble beginnings as a first-generation college student, which he afforded by joining the military. Moreover, he emphasized the values instilled by his parents: (1) being reliable–“showing up and doing your job, reliably” and (2) accepting challenges to continue growth.
When asked about how he dealt with any setbacks during his career, Mr. Gonzales told us that perseverance calls for struggle. Even when facing hardships, as he did while serving as the first Hispanic American Attorney General, you must trust that if you put in the work, things will work out in the end. As important, he reminded us to dream big. While not all of our dreams will work out, they definitely won’t work out if they aren’t pursued.
Both Mr. Gonzales and Mr. Yebra highlighted the importance of building relationships during their talk. Judge Gonzales emphasized the importance that George W. Bush played in his career, and Colonel Yebra stressed the importance of building relationships built on professionalism, trust and reliability.
Colonel Yebra reminded us to surround ourselves with people that we can learn from while understanding that our role serving others allows for greater professional growth–and, simultaneously, more responsibility. The aspect of serving others is a distinct value LEAP holds in everything we do so it resonated with all the students present.
Once our time with Mr. Gonzales was up, we snapped a quick photo to add to the many taken with him over the years, from when he so kindly came to visit us at SHSU. All of us present took away profound insights we can use in our own lives. We look forward to seeing Mr. Gonzales and Colonel Yebra again in the future!
Center for Law, Engagement, and Politics 