LEAP Ambassadors – Page 36 – Center for Law, Engagement, and Politics

TSUS Presents: A Speaker, A Singer, and an Education

Jessica Cuevas and Morgan Robertson

This past Wednesday, the SHAIP Interns learned that the pride and spirit of the colleges in the Texas State University System isn’t limited to the various towns across the state. For the 2023 biannual TSUS Presents, TSUS staff, members, legislators, country legends, and even SHSU students, gathered at the Austin City Limits to celebrate and honor that spirit.

Artists with the most appearances at ACL

Just last month, we had the opportunity to tour the TSUS offices and meet those who oversee TSUS. It was a great chance to network and learn, just one of the many opportunities for us as SHAIP interns. TSUS also provided lunch, and Development Director Malú González and Vice Chancellor Mike Wintemute presented us with the amazing opportunity to assist with this event. It is at least the third time that SHAIP interns have assisted with this event, which occurs biannually.

We were scheduled to arrive at 3:30pm, but our preparation began earlier, with event descriptions to read, software to download, and instructions to learn. While we waited for guests to start arriving, we visited with Vice Chancellor (and Foundation Director) Mike Wintemute, and Vice Chancellor Sean Cunningham. They were very interested in how our first month of session had gone and how we’d been faring. We even got to say hi to Chancellor McCall, and it was especially nice to work under the leadership of Malu Gonzalez.

(L-R) Ashlyn Parker, Ingrid Cuero, Morgan Robertson, Jessica Cuevas, and Malú González

As a thank you to some of the sponsors, Speaker of the House, Dade Phelan donated his time in the form of photo-ops! And while a couple of the volunteers assisted with that, the rest of us assisted with checking-in the special guests and attendees who after a long day of work were ready to sit back and enjoy the concert: TSUS Presents Dwight Yoakam. Many attendees were members and staff of the Legislature–some of whom we knew after working in the Capitol for a month–members of TSUS Universities (such as the presidents and other cabinet officials), and governmental affairs specialists from all over. In short, it was a networking bonanza! But we did stick to our job, which was directing these guests, all generous donors, towards the photo-ops, auctions, and seating.

Part of the benefit of working this program is that we also attend the event! So, we had a chance to hear from Regent Amato…

…Chancellor McCall…

…and, of course, the honoree, Speaker Dade Phelan.

Speaker Phelan introduced some humor into his speech, while also praising the work of educators, public universities, and the entire process of education. It was appropriate that the funds raised for this event–which totaled more than $700,000–would go to scholarships.

This knowledge made the event even more special for us, in as much as the SHAIP internships for which we were selected are only possible, the result of donors providing scholarships. In a small way, our volunteer work was our way of showing appreciation for the support provided by TSUS, SHSU, SHAIP, and its officials.

As important as we all agree education is, that didn’t mean people weren’t awaiting the main attraction, which was, of course, Dwight Yoakum. And, thus, the lights were dimmed, and the stage where Speaker Phelan previously stood had been rearranged to better suit the needs of country legend Dwight Yoakam and his band!

They quickly filled the room with hit music, including “The Streets of Bakersfield,” “Fast as You,” and “Please Please Baby.”

That was only the beginning even Yoakam noted that was only his warmup. The real concert did not begin until Yoakam played Honky Tonk Man; Little Ways; The Heart that you Own; A Thousand Miles from Nowhere; Guitars, Cadillacs; and many more, including his favorite Willie Nelson tune.

Yoakam wrapped up the concert in fashion as he not only strummed his guitar and danced his signature moves, he also passed on the spotlight to every member of his band recognizing their talents as each took the opportunity to rock out!

After the concert ended, the SHAIP Interns took the opportunity of being around such amazing people and started snapping selfies! Amongst our selfie guests were Assistant Vice Chancellor, Pierce Mitchell;

L-R: Morgan Robertson, Ashlyn Parker, Jessica Cuevas, and Pierce Mitchell

…Vice Chancellor Sean Cunningham and Elliott Herzlich;

Elliott Herzlich, Jessica Cuevas, Mike Yawn, Ashlyn Parker, Stephanie Fors, Morgan Robertson, and VC Sean Cunningham

…Vice-President Heather Thielemann and Dr. McCartney Johnson…

Morgan Robertson, Dr. McCartney Johnson, Jessica Cuevas, Yvette Mendoza, Ashlyn Parker, Vice-President Heather Thielemann, and Ingrid Cuero.

We also had a chance to meet Dr. Carlos Hernandez, currently President of Sul Ross University and formerly VP of Finance at SHSU, and his wife, Lupita, who also worked at SHSU.

…and President White and Speaker Phelan.

This was a great night and we were all thankful to be able to volunteer and attend this live concert! Many thanks to Malu Gonzalez and all those at TSUS for hosting a wonderful event and for supporting students.

Mark Burns Presents The West

LEAP students, past and present, headed to the Pearl Fincher Museum of Fine Arts to see “American Landscapes” by Mark Burns. Featuring more than 50 photographs by a photographer deemed a “modern-day Ansel Adams,” the exhibit captured the beauty and the mystery of The West.

More than 100 people showed up for the opening reception, and Burns was also on hand to greet people and discuss his work. With Burns, that is always a treat, with stories of each shot reflecting more of the West and its mystique.

For Victoria, the best in show was from The Grand Canyon, a shot taken on the Winter Solstice (and LEAP was there!).

Olivia’s favorite was from Yellowstone, a shot of Old Faithful.

All were interesting.

Of course, one of the special aspects of the show is that LEAP students have been to several of the locations photographed by Burns, and, in fact, LEAP students were with Burns on locations for some of the photographs in the show.

So, it was a reunion of sorts, and a great chance for three generations of LEAP students to get to one another and continue their lifelong learning.

Chilly–and Fun–at the Lodge: 2023

One of the hidden jewels of Huntsville is the Josey Scout Lodge, which serves as a home to the Huntsville units of the Boy Scouts of America and the Girl Scouts of the USA. The structure was built in 1934, and for almost nine decades it has graced the Huntsville community.

The Josey Scout Lodge in the Snow (2021)

But for the last two years, it has also served as home to “Chilly at the Lodge,” a fundraiser and fun-raiser for the community.

The core aspect of Chilly at the Lodge is a national chili contest, with contestants from across the country bringing their best chili-game to Huntsville, TX.

It’s a competitive group, too: seven of this year’s applicants are national chili champions.

Karla Christian is the logistical manager and all-around workhorse behind this event, but it receives much help from others as well: Gene Roberts, Tom Rogers, Leanne Woodward, and numerous volunteer judges.

The presence of familiar faces reinforces the community nature of the event.

The presence of entertainment, some local, some more distal, adds variety and fun. And the presence of the world’s best chili-makers adds–literally and figuratively–adds spice to the event.

Speaking of which, the winners for Saturday’s event were:

For People’s Choice, the Saturday finishers were: (3) Mac Walker, (2) David Gray, and (1) Scott Williams.

For Community Youth, the Saturday finishers were: (3, tie) Michelle Rush, (3, tie) Carson’s Mill, (2, tie) Spice Men, (2, tie), Chili Dogs, and (1) East meets West.

For Community Adult, the Saturday’s finishers were: (3) Glenn Frey, (2) Wesley Campus Ministry, and (1) David Gray.

For the International Chili Society official contests:

Salsa: (3) Mary Parker, (2) Scott Williams, and (1) Mac Walker.

Chili Verde: (3) Chuck McCory (who generously donated his winnings back to the Josey Lodge), (2) Louis Gonzales, and (1) Mary Parker.

Homestyle: (3) Kelly Walker, (2) Roger Folks, and (1) Barbara Herron

Red Chili: (3) Brandon Marshall, (2) David Lazarus, and (1) Roger Foltz.

The event brought some great entertainment to Huntsville, gave some chili cooks a chance to show off their skills, allowed the community to come together for a good cause, and, of course, raised some funds for the non-profit Josey Scout Lodge, making it a winner of a weekend!

SHAIP Speaker Series

The Sam Houston Austin Internship Program kicks off each session with “Speaker Series,” and this week’s session placed double duty on the word “Speaker.” On Friday, the nine Austin Interns heard from three members of the House Speaker’s staff: Margo Cardwell (Counsel), Sydney Watts (Chief of Staff), and Cassi Pollock (Press/Media).

With lunch from Alonti’s (thanks to Malu Gonzales from TSUS for the recommendation), the students got two-hour overview of running a leadership office–as well as invaluable career advice.

Margo Cardwell emphasized the importance of discretion in the workplace, offering discussions of both office culture and the legal requirements of reporting office communications. She also explored the protections the Texas House offers against sexual harassment, and she offered the nine young women resources for addressing that issue, should they need resources. Cardwell then discussed her own career path, which involved an undergraduate degree in Washington, DC, law school at the University of Texas, and a series of legal/political jobs.

Without a master strategic plan to end up as Legal Counsel for the Speaker of the House, the jobs she chose made her both qualified and ideal for such a position. With six of the nine interns wanting to be attorneys, her advice was well received.

After serving as a reporter for several years for the Texas Tribune, Cassi Pollock now works as Press Secretary for Speaker Phelan. Pollock’s years covering politics and ability to write and communicate serve her well in her current role.

She emphasized the importance of writing skill for any office-legal-political job, a point echoed by Margo Cardwell. Pollock also underscored the need to stay true to your moral compass.

As a political reporter, she did her best to remain neutral and report the facts as she learned them and not to be swayed by her own–or others’–political leanings.

Sydney Watts has worked for two speakers, Bonnen and now Phelan, serving as the latter’s “Director of Administration.” She discussed basic management, tips for professional settings, tips for interns, and navigating the capitol.

One point she made was that no job is beneath any staffer. In fact, she pointed out that Margo might be “stocking the refrigerator” on one day, and the next she might be representing the Texas House in the court system. She highlighted the fact that the Texas House is one of the best places in the country for young people to work and to make a difference. In addition, she encouraged the interns to ask questions, particularly if (1) they were uncertain about something, (2) if they were curious, or (3) if they needed assistance with prioritizing tasks. For students in their first professional jobs with real responsibility, the advice was needed.

The students also had a chance to chime in, discussing what they’ve learned about things in the legislature, their biggest challenges, and aspects of Austin or the Texas Legislature they’ve found most interesting. Jessica Cuevas discussed the challenges of being an introvert and asserting oneself, Amor Sheffield discussed the challenges of being semi-introverted and having to speak to so many people in the Capitol all day long…

…and Breanna Demyers commented on the diversity of people from Texas’s 254 counties.

After the rewarding visit, we were able to take a photo in the House Gallery, with Ms. Cardwell and Ms. Watt (Ms. Pollock was, by this time, in a meeting).

It was a rewarding day for all of us, occurring in the midst of what is shaping up to be the most rewarding semester in our college careers.

Congressmen Kevin Brady’s Walker County Goodbye

Morgan Robertson

Despite the dreary weather, The Republican Party of Walker County , led by Chair Linda Mckenzie, went above and beyond to throw a special retirement reception for U.S. Congressman Kevin Brady.

Community members, City and County leaders and, LEAP Ambassadors braved the rain to witness a sentimental afternoon full of reminiscing on the accomplishments of Congressman Brady. The Walker County Storm Shelter was set up beautifully with refreshments catered by Farmhouse Cafe, and festive centerpieces made by party member, Alice Ellisor.

In the typical Walker County Republican Party fashion, Ms. McKenzie recognized all of the elected officials including those taking office in January.

Mayor Brauninger was first to speak on behalf of the City of Huntsville, accompanied by City Councilman Jon Strong. Mayor Brauninger commented on Congressman Brady’s years of dedication and service to the 8th US district, and presented him with a Proclamation.

County Judge Danny Pierce then presented a proclamation on behalf of Walker County. Judge Pierce thanked Congressman Brady for making his job easier and being great to work with.

Congressmen Brady has spent the last two decades serving his district and there is no better proof of that than his dedication to the H.E.A.R.T.S Veterans Museum. Executive Director, Tara Burnett and two board members thanked Congressman Brady for allowing Huntsville to be home to this one-of-a-kind Museum.

Yvette spoke on behalf of current and past LEAP Ambassadors who have all been immensely impacted by Congressman Brady. Various LEAP Ambassadors, including Ademide Adedokun, Justin Veillon, Brandon Reese, Christine Reese, Ariel Leaf, Christina Perez, and Brian Aldaco, have worked for Congressman Brady during his long career, and we (and they!) are grateful for the opportunities he provided. Moreover, Congressman Brady invited LEAP Ambassadors to the US Capitol and his Ways and Means Committee Room, where he unveiled a statue of Sam Houston (that was on loan from the SHMM).

(Editor’s Note: the LEAP Center is non-partisan, although it does work with officials of both parties to provide internships and other opportunities. LEAP Ambassadors include Republicans, Democrats, and Independents.)

(Pictures by Linda Mckenzie)

After many heartfelt thank you’s, Congressman Brady shared with the crowd some of his favorite memories while serving. He recalled that as long as he can remember, parades have always had a special place in his heart, which was further amplified when he took office. Over the next few minutes, Congressman Brady reminisced with the crowd about his favorite parades, the embarrassing, funny, and lessons-learned.

On behalf of the LEAP Ambassadors, thank you to the Walker County Republican Party for hosting an amazing event, and to Congressman Kevin Brady for supporting the LEAP center and serving our district well.

SHMM Art Exhibition

November 10, 2022

One of the highlights of the fall season is the Sam Houston Memorial Museum’s Annual Photo Contest. After seeing the quality of last year’s photos, we opted against entering any photos this year… But we were excited to see the photos, be back at our favorite museum, and otherwise appreciate the talent on display.

And so it was we ventured into the Walker Education Center to explore, meet old friends, and see who took away awards!

There were four categories: animals, people, architecture, and floral. Hundreds of photos were submitted by Huntsville’s local citizens, then judged by three photographic experts: Kaylin Booker, Paul Olle, and Derrick Birdsall–the latter is also the Museum’s Director.

The animal category is always popular, perhaps because everyone thinks their pet is photogenic, beautiful, and wonderful. Some, as it turns out, are at the very least, more photogenic than others. The winners were…

Animal Category:
1st Place – C. Buzzini
2nd Place – S. White
3rd Place – D. LeNorman

This year’s floral category also included some animals, in as much as animals–much like humans–are drawn to the beauty of nature’s creations and were included in some of the submitted photos in this section.

Floral Category:
1st Place – V. Lorine
2nd Place – E. Day
3rd Place – D. LeNorman

There was, of course, a people category as well.

People Category:
1st Place – D. Lee
2nd Place – C. Buzzini
3rd Place – E. Day

Finally, the architectural category was, in our opinion, the strongest.

Architecture Category:
1st Place – M. Litzmann
2nd Place Tie – S. White & V. Lorine

The judges also picked a best a “Reserve Champion” (A MacLaughlin) and a “Best in Show” (S. Adams).

There were various honorable mentions and curator’s choices that were also worthy.

In addition to all the photographs, we also enjoyed the chance to see old friends, and we want to congratulate them–and the winners–on another successful community photograph contest!

Wrapping Up the Fall with the Pre-Law Society

PLS Meeting: Cross Examination Exercise

November 16, 2022

McKenna Nonnenmann

For our last Pre-Law Society meeting, all the members engaged in a cross and direct examination exercise! Following our previous meeting with an attorney, Mr. Chris Thompson, who spoke on tips and tricks to successfully cross-examine a witness in the courtroom, we dove into an immersive experience to apply what we learned from him.

As an interactive exercise, all members were given roles and could ask unique questions to either reinforce the case’s witness or discredit them. To start us off a model group came up to present how the exercise should be done with the roles being played by Yvette Mendoza (police officer), Ashley Kinyon (prosecutor’s witness), Anthony Roughton (prosecutor), and Jocelyn Vazquez (defense attorney).

They each presented a crime scene from the famous movie Taxi Driver. In this case, a man is being convicted of second-degree murder but was pleading for self-defense. This was presented in great detail through excellent opening statements that Jocelyn and Anthony gave. The cross and direct examination the model group gave was a great way to see how to either discredit the witness or make your witness look good!

Turning it over to the members, they each got into their groups with the crime scene they had to examine from the movie Dirty Harry. The members were heavily dedicated to their roles! The officers gathered the witness statement from the witnesses, and the attorneys went to watch the crime scene, which was considered “camera footage,” and used the witness statements to articulate their direct and cross-examination questions.

This experience allowed us, as future attorneys, a piece of the pie of what life could be like as an attorney. There was so much excitement and curiosity about this exercise. It was a great way to learn how a trial may work when the attorneys need to examine the witnesses, and we all hope to do it again soon, possibly in a mock trial!

As we close the fall 2022 semester, we would like to congratulate any seniors graduating this semester and wish them a safe journey. We will see the rest of you next semester, and happy holidays!

Making A Smile Happen: (MAS*H)

Kiara Williams and Ashlyn Parker

This past week the LEAP Ambassadors were happy to help–and recruit more help–KSAM radio with their annual “Make A Smile Happen” holiday gift drive for the community.

This drive encourages the local community to provide food items, pet supplies, cash, or toys, and these, in turn, go to one of six non-profit agencies: Santa’s Helpers, Huntsville Independent School District, Good Shepherd Mission, SAAFE House, YMCA, and the Rita B. Huff Adoption Center. It is timed, of course, with the holidays, in the hopes of being able to provide gifts, food, pet food, or other necessities to those in need, and LEAP was happy to help.

Although the tasks associated with assisting are not difficult, they are time-consuming. The drive spans two days: 6 am-6 pm on Wed, Nov. 30th; and 6 am-3 pm, Thu, Dec. 1, and we try to have four volunteers on hand at any given time. Some of the mornings were cold…

…and we were trying to recruit volunteers during finals, but given the importance of this cause, we were able to find sufficient volunteers and have fun helping others.

Our tasks were manifold:

(1) hold signs marketing the event to the high-traffic area on 11th street;

(2) help donors load and unload donated items from their vehicles;

(3) organize and count the items;

…and (4) come up with creative marketing tools.

And, of course, other duties as assigned.

We were better at some tasks than others.

Along the way, the students had the wonderful opportunity to meet and learn from new people: Tim Johnson, the station’s General Manager;

…radio personalities such as Bryan Reader, Glenn Edwards, and Carlos Zimmerman; and several sponsors and other volunteers.

In all, KSAM did a great job getting the word out, and we were happy to help. Our final count is 429 toys, 1,517 cans of food, $6,979.84, and 865 pounds of pet food.

It was a fun and productive two days, and we would like to thank all the volunteers who came out to help and the sponsors who assisted with overhead. And, of course, major thanks to KSAM who orchestrates this event every year!

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