LEAP Ambassadors – Page 34 – Center for Law, Engagement, and Politics

Fun On with “Noises Off”

In any given semester, LEAP Ambassadors do volunteer service, attend presentation by leading public figures, tour art museums, explore civil rights and history, and, when possible, attend performing arts events. This semester was no different and, in fact, the Ambassadors began the semester with Chicago and they ended it with a performance of Noises Off at the Owen Theatre in Conroe, TX.

This was a rare treat for us, in that none of us had ever been to the Owen Theatre before, although several of our party had seen Noises Off. Indeed, Victoria McClendon was attending tonight as an alum, but her very first LEAP event was a production of this play at SHSU in 2016!

This time, in addition to Victoria, we had Olivia Discon, Professor Yawn and Ms. Stephanie, and Dr. Hyman and Carol Hyman–the latter of whom generously treated us to dinner!

Noises Off is a full-on farce, a play within a play about putting on a play.

It is a crowd pleaser, but with all its moving parts, and it’s abrupt changes in persona from each character, and its frantic pace, it’s also a difficult play to put on, especially for a community theatre. But the Owen actors did a fine job, with Jillian Linton (as Brooke Ashton), Robert Faber (as Lloyd Dallas), Jeff Linton (as Sheldon Mowbray), and Allen Dorris (as Frederick Fellowes) standing out.

The first act of the play shows a rehearsal, one that is not going well, much to the chagrin of the director, “Lloyd Dallas.”

The second act depicts the opening, albeit from “behind the stage.” The real audience (us) is not seeing what the imaginary audience sees; rather, we are seeing the drama, spectacle, and chaos going on behind the scenes.

The third act, which is the most madcap, puts the real audience (us) in the perspective of the imaginary audience, allowing us to see how much of an impact the behind-the-scenes drama is having on stage.

Apparently, it’s not easy to put on a play in general, and especially when there are two separate love triangles (and maybe a love quadrangle) occurring, along with a cast that includes a drunk, a dimwit (or two), and a gossip. But those difficulties make for a fun time for the audience, and helped produce much laughter and enjoyment for the LEAP Ambassadors to cap off a long and rewarding semester.

Lunch with the Chancellor: Texas State University Systems Recognizes System Interns

by Yvette Mendoza

We can think of no better way for the Sam Houston State University interns to conclude the 88th legislative session–with a delightful lunch hosted by the Chancellor of the Texas State University System, Brian McCall. The event provided a wonderful opportunity for the SHAIP interns to connect with other legislative interns in the System and reflect on how TSUS played a significant role in our internship experience.

The O. Henry Hall, located in the heart of downtown Austin is where TSUS is located. Although it is not the first time we had visited this historic building, we were again impressed by its stunning architecture and historic halls. The warm welcome from TSUS Chancellor McCall and Vice-Chancellor Sean Cunningham further added to the fantastic experience.

Lunch was flawlessly organized, allowing us to enjoy our meal while connecting with the Texas State University legislative interest. Learning about how TSU runs its legislative internship program and hearing about the future plans after the session ends was an enlightening experience. It was interesting to note that a majority of the interns were either graduating this semester from Texas State or Sam Houston, with many planning to pursue a master’s degree at the Lyndon B Johson School of Public Affairs or attending law school.

The lunch provided an excellent opportunity to reflect on the entirety of the session and how TSUS played a crucial role in making it a memorable experience. Looking back on the various event that TSUS hosted, such as the unforgettable performance of Dwight Yoakam that featured a special tribute to the Texas House Speaker Dade Phelan.

In addition, we realized how much we have grown and learned since the first lunch we had with the TSUS team.

The lunch concluded with all of the interns expressing our gratitude and appreciation for TSUS’s consistent support. We felt honored to represent TSUS at the Texas State Capitol, and the internship would not have been as successful without the support of TSUS.

On behalf of the LEAP Ambassadors and SHAIP, we would like to extend our heartfelt thanks for TSUS’s unwavering support and assistance in our growth as students who are part of the magnificent Texas State University System.

Austin: Inside & (Especially) Outside the Capitol!

Morgan Robertson

My first month and a half in Austin has been filled with learning and trying new things-but not all of my new experiences have happened in the beautiful state Capitol. In an effort to take advantage of the great outdoor spaces that Austin has, I learned to paddle board on The Colorado River! With LEAP, and on my own, I have enjoyed kayaking and exploring different waterways, but new environments called for new experiences.

Located near the boardwalk at Lady Bird Lake, EpicSUP is known as Austin’s go-to paddle dock with what seems like a whole fleet of paddle boards and kayaks. Daniel, who has worked with EpicSup for several years, knew that the best way to introduce a novice was to encourage her to simply get on the board and paddle.

I would (and I’m sure many others would as well) classify myself as the least coordinated Ambassador–a thought that I couldn’t quite shake, with no help from the wobbling paddle board beneath me. After a few minutes of getting a feel for the new activity and observing other paddlers on the water I eventually fell into a rhythm and was off!

Even after my first venture on a paddle board, I would argue that it’s easier to balance than a kayak. As with any new activity, each time I’ve paddle boarded it has gotten easier, and I’ve been able to cover more distance. On just my second time out on the river, I paddled about 8 miles in three and a half hours–which included breaks to take photos of the city around me.

My starting (and ending) point is the circle on the bottom right corner of the map and I made it up to Mopac!

On my most recent voyage on the Colorado, I took a detour on Barton Creek which ended up being well worth it! Because of the shallowness of the creek, the clear water showcased flowing plants and even a turtle just beneath the surface.

The Creek seemed to be a great spot for all the local wildlife and Austinites to enjoy the weather. One lesson I have learned from LEAP is that wildlife photography is no easy feat. However, it is even more difficult trying to maneuver and maintain stealth on an 11ft paddle board toward skittish creek dwellers! I was lucky enough to have snapped a few shots of some basking turtles, hunting herons, and even ducks taking flight (despite being the reason for their immediate departure).

The wildlife, expanse of the river, and the beautiful views of the city all amplified my paddle boarding experience, which has, in turn, expanded my Austin experiences as well.

Covering the World with Ioan Grillo (and the World Affairs Council)

By Michelle Cardenas

LEAP students enjoyed another amazing World Affairs Council event, this one featuring author and journalist: Ioan Grillo. During this event, SHSU students and alumni had the opportunity to learn about Grillo and his most recent book titled “Blood, Gun, Money”.

Specializing in crime and drug cartels in Mexico, Grillo delivered an informative and thought-provoking run-down of the drug war the United States is currently battling.

After a brief introduction by Jahan Jafarpour…

…Ioan Grillo and moderator Ronan O’Malley took the stage. The conversation began with a striking question about the fentanyl crisis and its effect on Americans. Grillo explained how fentanyl is one of the deadliest synthetic drugs on the market, and how its potency can be fatal at minuscule doses. Due to its cheap production costs and easy transportation across the border, fentanyl has become extremely accessible and profitable.

Grillo went on to explain how America is experiencing a revolution of illegal drugs that’s killing thousands of people. He compares the current drug revolution to the crack epidemic that took place in the late 1980’s. According to Grillo’s data, the number of current overdoses on Fentanyl is 21 times higher than the number of overdoses on record for 1988, the peak of the crack epidemic. He then discussed the multi-faceted conditions that allow such a crisis, such as corruption in Mexican officials and the strong presence of organized crime.

Ioan Grillo spent much of time discussing the Mexican cartel and its impact on civilians and the United States. A concerning point in this discussion was the amount of heavy weaponry transported to Mexico from the United States. According to Grillo, many gun traffickers have easy access to weapons here in the United States, which they purchase without a paper trail. Due to the violence and cartel wars that have erupted, the journalist mentioned the possibility of naming the different Mexican cartels as foreign terrorist organizations. However, many issues could arise, one of which is the justification of asylum on the border. He concluded by assuring us that the war on drugs and violence is just now beginning, and that the only way to stop this war is government involvement and strict policies.

The conversation then moved on to a Q&A session, where many interesting topics were discussed. Olivia, a fellow LEAP Ambassador, asked a question about the media’s role in raising awareness of drug crises.

We each then had the pleasure to speak to Ioan Grillo after the event and get our books signed…

…as well as learn a little more about his approach to reaching a resolution to end this drug epidemic we are witnessing.

To fit the theme of tonight’s event and the region primarily discussed, we headed to Ninfa’s; a restaurant specializing in Mexican cuisine. We all enjoyed traditional Mexican dishes, including tacos al pastor, mole, and enchiladas de carnitas. Everyone was extremely satisfied with their dishes and enjoyed their flavorful entrees.

This was a great opportunity to get to know SHSU alumni (Victoria McClendon-Leggett and Bianca Saldierna), meet with new students who haven’t done many LEAP events, as well as learn more about the pressing issues affecting our country’s health.

Time in Austin with President White

Jessica Cuevas and Morgan Robertson

As the 88^th legislative session is winding down, I hope I can speak for all SHAIP Interns when I say that I think we’ve gotten the hang of the “Texas Lege”!

And this knowledge came in handy this week when we had the privilege of having lunch with President Alisa White, Dr. McCartney Johnson, and SHSU (and LEAP) alum Ms. Christina Gonzalez.

We were welcomed with open arms and hugs by Dr. White, Dr. Johnson, and Christina, and we filled our plates with yummy tacos from Chuy’s.

Dr. White began by asking us three questions related to our experiences at the Capitol. (1) What most surprised us? (2) What has been the most challenging? (3) What has been the most rewarding? In the time it took us to answer the questions, Dr. White wove in her own advice and thoughts from her experiences.

Although we are all in different offices, many of our experiences have been similar. For many of us, one challenging aspect has been how to interact with concerned or upset constituents. Such interactions force us to think on our feet, be responsive, and to de-escalate what can be stressful situations. Dr. White and Dr. Johnson noted that such interactions will likely be present in all occupations–including Higher Education!.

For Amor, the most surprising element of the internship was how much discretion she is given in her office. Because offices work with a minimum number of staff members, each member has to be capable of–and be trusted to–make good decisions. Amor, for example, frequently attends meetings, writes up talking points, and briefs the staff on legislation. In many ways, this reflects all of our experiences: our offices treat us as staff members and, in some offices, they even treat us like family!

Christina, who served as a LEAP Ambassador and a SHAIP intern–and who has much experience in the political worlds–expressed the importance of networking and ensuring that we establish connections. She stressed that the most important things in the legislature are (1) your work ethic and (2) your reputation.

The lunch concluded with Dr. White gifting us with AWESOME SHSU personalized tumblers!

As we descended from the tenth floor, hearts, and minds full, we walked back into the Capitol ready to take on the last 30 days of session. Sincere thank you to Dr. Johnson for organizing a great lunch, Christina for hosting, and Dr. White for her vibrant energy and curiosity!

Clinical Psychology Program Offers Unique Courtroom Simulation

Sam Houston State University professionals in the fields of Law and Forensic Psychology joined together to present an experiential learning experience for Clinical Psychology Ph.D. students enrolled in the Forensic Assessment course taught by Dr. Mary Alice Conroy, Distinguished Professor of Psychology and Director of Clinical Training. In this unique collaboration, Ph.D. students practiced presenting their professional opinions as expert witnesses in a simulated hearing to determine the competency of a criminal defendant to stand trial. Dr. Gene Roberts, Associate Dean of Students and Director of the Student Legal and Mediation Services Center, cross-examined the student expert witnesses.

At the first simulated hearing, Hannah Benemann testified as the forensic expert, while fellow Ph.D. student Hadley McCartin conducted the direct examination. Ms. Benemann began her testimony by explaining the legal standard to determine competency to stand trial. She provided details from her expert report to explain her findings regarding the defendant’s competency. During his cross-examination, Dr. Roberts asked intense questions of the expert in order to provide the Trier of Fact, the Judge, with the most accurate information to make a determination of competency to stand trial.

The process continued with the second simulated hearing in which Alison Concannon was the expert witness and Inneke Vargas handled the direct exam. At the last hearing, the expert witness was Kennedy Anderson, and Sarah Hernandez asked the questions on direct exam. The other three students in the Forensics Psychology course, Brianna Davis, Kayla Spenard, and Aislinn Tansey, will participate in a future simulated hearing.

Dr. Roberts has assisted in this learning experience for the past ten years. At these simulated hearings, Dr. Roberts changes his cross-examination approach for each student so that the entire class is exposed to a gamut of questioning strategies. By both showcasing different techniques to cross-examine an expert witness and providing incisive feedback and advice to each of the Forensic Psychology Ph.D. students, Dr. Roberts hopes to provide the students an idea of what they will experience as an expert witness in forensic psychology.

Many thanks to Dr. Gene Roberts and Dr. Conroy for allowing LEAP students to observe this unique and innovative academic exercise!

Around the World with CIA Director Bill Burns

By Olivia Discon

Following LEAP’s visit last week to the Bush School of Government and Public Service, where current FBI Director Christopher Wray spoke on current affairs, we returned to hear the Director of the CIA, Bill Burns, speak on his perspective on international matters and his efforts in transforming the CIA to meet the constantly shifting challenges in the 21st century.

Bill Burns has a distinguished career in foreign service, having worked for over three decades in the US Department of State. He has served in various diplomatic posts around the world, including as Ambassador to Russia, Jordan, and NATO. Appointed by President Joe Biden in 2021, Bill Burns is highly regarded as an expert in foreign policy and national security.

Hundreds of people gathered in the auditorium of the Annenberg Presidential Conference Center. The audience was filled with students, veterans, A&M alumni, Bush School faculty and staff, and CIA operatives. Former CIA Intelligence Officer (and current Bush School faculty) Greg Vogle was an able moderator, not only creating an open dialogue for candid conversations, but also able to guide the audience into a deeper understanding of CIA operations and their importance.

And, we caught a glimpse of former Chief of Counterintelligence at CIA and Professor of the Practice Emeritus at The Bush School, Jim Olson.

Bill Burns spoke at large about the tensions with other international superpowers, Russia and China, and the key components of the threats to the United States. In a world of ever-evolving technology, the precedents to combat cybersecurity threats are also constantly changing. The CIA is rising to meet these challenges and others by creating new missions centers (one for technology, one with a focus on China, improving private sector partnerships, and attempting to address some of the supply-chain and other global issues affecting us all. He also invited those with a call to public service, a sense of patriotism, to consider the CIA–a career and a family.

To recapitulate: With the support of the United States and other allies, Ukraine has shown Russia that they do not possess the means of strength to dominate NATO, let alone a small neighboring country; For China, that same war has shown the potential consequences of economic sanctions and the strength of international institutions, such as the UN, in resolving conflicts. (China, which has faced its own territorial disputes with neighboring countries, may be increasingly concerned about the potential for similar conflicts to escalate into full-scale wars.) While Burns did not sugarcoat the severity of these issues, he did provide a tone of considerable experience, most likely the greatest form of comfort in matters such as these.

The weight of the international threats facing the United States was palpable, but so was the reassurance that comes from hearing from a man of such distinguished experience. Despite the severity of the issues discussed, Burns’ tone was one of calm and measured consideration. It was a reminder that, even in a world of constant change and shifting threats, there are those who possess the wisdom and experience to help guide us through the challenges ahead, those who are patriots, who do quality work. As the event came to a close, the audience left with a renewed appreciation for the complexities of international affairs and the importance of continued engagement and dialogue in order to ensure our nation’s safety and security.

College of Criminal Justice Honors Academic Standouts

More than 200 people attended the College of Criminal Justice’s (COCJ) Honor’s Convocation Ceremony, where the College recognized their best and brightest. Adding poignancy to the event were the many alumni on hand, many of whom had endowed scholarships in memory of loved ones.

Dean Lyons led the proceedings, highlight the many accomplishments of the College and its storied history…

…before turning it over to Associate Dean Danielle Boisvert.

Dean Boisvert then introduced dozens of scholarships and more than 100 students who earned those scholarships, with faculty, staff, and alumni on hand to provide students with plaques and recognition.

The scholarships included numerous undergraduates, one of whom was President of LEAP Ambassadors, Jessica Cuevas.

Ms. Cuevas, in addition to being a Smith-Hutson Scholar, was awarded the O.B. Ellis-J.P. Gibbs Scholarship.

This was an apt scholarship, in that Cuevas occasionally volunteers at the J. Phillips Gibbs “Old Town Theatre,” providing a connection to the scholarship.

Graduate students were also recognized, including many in the Ph.D. program. Students such as Meghan Royle, Jazmin Polacios, and Cristal Hernandez-Avalos were recognized for the had work and accomplishments they have made while in graduate school.

Ed Owens, an SHSU alum and former Deputy Executive Director of TDCJ…

…was also on hand to congratulate Joaquin Padron, who was given the “Edward Glenn Owens” Scholarship.

Owens graduated from SHSU with a Criminal Justice degree, as did his wife, Rissie, who also teaches in the Criminal Justice Department, drawing on her expertise in pardons and paroles to instruct students.

It was a wonderful event, packed with students benefitting from the generosity of alumni, donors, faculty, and staff, and highlighting the best of Sam Houston State University.

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