A mysterious death. A howling hound. A suspiciously Texan heir. What do all these things have in common? Chaos, comedy, and the incredible Todd Waite in his final bow as Sherlock Holmes at the Alley Theatre.
With only five actors and 36 characters flying in and out of scenes, The Hound of the Baskervilles was a theatrical juggling act, with a few wig, costume, and accent changes. Which is to say: it was impressive, ridiculous, and a lot of fun.
Before diving into the fun, we primed ourselves with a little chaos of our own: lunch at Post Market. In the spirit of the show’s variety, we went for food from all corners: noodles, rice, sushi, and African inspired power bowls— none of which appeared to be from the same restaurant.
Our group included LEAP friends Bill and Carol Hyman and Wayne and Andrea Scott, along with students Macey Schank, Jacob Wessels, Chrissy Biello, Michelle Moya, Mikaela Baires, and Austin intern Cinthia Villarreal. We showed up full and ready for whatever the Alley threw at us.
The Hound of the Baskervilles follows Sherlock Holmes and Dr. Watson as they investigate the mysterious death of Sir Charles Baskerville and the legend of a supernatural hound that haunts his family’s estate. In this version, five actors take on dozens of characters, adding a fast-paced, comedic twist to the story.
When we saw Todd Waite last month at Murder by the Book, he mentioned how Sherlock Holmes is, frankly, a smart aleck, but one you can’t really get mad at, because he’s always right on the nose. Having heard him talk about the role made seeing him perform it even better. His timing, his wordplay, and even his smallest asides all landed with precision. He clearly knows Sherlock inside and out.
Dylan Godwin was another fan favorite in this show among our group. As the Texan heir to the Baskerville estate (among a dozen other characters), he was constantly shifting personalities and finding ways to distinguish the hilarious traits for both a grumpy street cop and a simple minded Texan—even when they are both in the same scene!
In all, this was a great experience for the LEAP Center to share with some amazing community friends.
Every spring, the Sam Houston Center for Law, Engagement, and Politics invites South Texas College of Law Professor Val Ricks to teach a Mock Law Class. Professor Ricks is a renowned legal mind and a national expert in contracts, among other areas of law.
Approximately thirty students attended this year’s session; any student at Sam Houston State University was able to register for the event. Before the class, participants were expected to prepare with case materials that Professor Ricks provided.
The mock case, Joseph Vian v. Mariah Carey (1993), focused on the legal concept of consideration and whether a valid contract existed between Mr. Vian and Ms. Carey. Professor Ricks opened the session by providing a working definition of law, saying that it revolves around the precise words used in legal documents.
He then employed an analogy comparing law to chess. Finding a self-identified chess player in the audience, Professor Ricks guided students to understand the parallel between chess rules and legal principles. Both systems operate within defined parameters; they require much thinking and a thorough understanding of established rules.
When moving on to the case discussion, Professor Ricks first told the class the facts of the case, then activated his random number generator to begin his use of the Socratic Method. From this, selected students were asked numerous questions about the case; Professor Ricks insisted they cite directly from the text, reinforcing his earlier point that the law is “all about the words.”
Once the class reached a general consensus on the case interpretation, Professor Ricks opened the floor for questions. Pre-Law Society President, Olivia Discon, asked what undergraduate students could do to prepare for law school. After thoughtful consideration, Professor Ricks began to speak on his own experience. He explained that studying scholastic philosophy during his undergraduate years was truly helpful; the language structure closely resembled legal texts, easing his transition into law school.
By the end of the session, students had not only sharpened their legal reasoning skills but also gained a clearer picture of what to expect in law school. Professor Ricks once again allowed students to sit in the shoes of a law student for an hour. By challenging students to truly understand the case and come out of their shells, he provided a better understanding of the power of precise language in the study of law.
Working on little sleep, and following an eighteen-hour first day, LEAP Ambassadors arose at 6am to explore architecture in and around Pittsburgh, with a stop at PPG Place, a mural by Richard Haas, and two major works by Frank Lloyd Wright.
PPG Place
Our first stop was PPG place, a six-building, “glass gothic” design by Philip Johnson.
As part of our LEAP travels, we had seen Johnson buildings in Houston, and we had watched a documentary on him in preparation for this trip, but PPG place was a place like no other.
Completed in 1984, its towering glass spires and sleek facades embody Johnson’s signature postmodern style, blending classical elements with contemporary materials. Its gothic detailing pay homage to Pittsburgh’s industrial heritage, its all-glass encasing embraces the future with innovative design, and its central plaza allows for a nice place to gather, which we did!
Richard Haas Mural As a teenager, Haas spent a summer apprenticing for Frank Lloyd Wright, so it is no surprise that his murals take on an architectural quality. Indeed, Haas’s website describes him as an “architectural muralist,” an apt sobriquet.
We know Haas primarily through his 15 works in Huntsville, but we’ve also seen his work in Fort Worth, which is a masterpiece. So it was with excitement that we tracked down his Pittsburgh mural, which is near the corner of Sixth and Fort Duquesne Boulevard.
As you might expect, it features an industrial scene, an homage to Pittsburgh steel-making history, with nods to its central location at the juncture of multiple rivers.
It’s always a pleasure to see Haas’s work, but this was especially true today, when we would also have a chance to see the work of his former boss, Frank Lloyd Wright.
Kentuck Knob
The first of our Frank Lloyd Wright site visits was to Kentuck Knob, which is nestled in the mountains of southwestern Pennsylvania. Designed in 1953, Kentuck Knob embodies Wright’s principles of organic architecture, seamlessly blending with its natural surroundings–and, in this case, adorned with a healthy helping of artwork, by artists such as Anthony Caro, Scott Burton, and George Rickey. We learned much of this thanks to our wonderful tour guide, Jan.
Among Wright aficionados, Kentuck Knob is known as a “Grand USoNian.” Wright’s USoNian homes were designed for middle-class residents. They were, relatively speaking, affordable, while still serving as an interesting, sculptural domicile.
Kentuck Knob had Wright’s characteristic overhanging eaves…
…adorned with clerestory windows;
…a double carport (he hated garages, which he regarded as receptacles for junk); and a “compression and release” entrance to the house.
The home follows is structured as a series of parallelograms, giving the home an interesting look and an aesthetic cohesiveness.
We were particularly struck by the beautiful living room with floor-to-ceiling windows (which could also serve as doors to the patio), beautiful Wright-designed furniture, and the unique touches for which Wright was famous.
But it was the way the home interacted with the environment that we most enjoyed. The home is about five miles from Fallingwater, and the owners wanted their own “water element,” so they added a small rockfall and pool on the patio. The home is also perched on the brow of the hill, not atop the hill. Wright did this to ensure that the home merged with the environment (rather than overtaking the environment), and with a short walk along the property, we were able to see the beautiful art-adorned grounds and a view that even real-estate agents could not exaggerate.
Fallingwater
After visiting Kentuck Knob, another of Frank Lloyd Wright’s masterpieces, we headed to Fallingwater. Seeing Kentuck Knob had piqued my interest, and I was even more excited to explore another of Wright’s creations.
Frank Lloyd Wright was a fascinating and complex architect, known for his innovative USoNian homes—affordable, stylish, and functional houses for middle-class Americans. He also pioneered organic architecture, harmonizing structures with their natural surroundings, which Fallingwater epitomizes. Designed in 1935 and built directly over a waterfall in 1938 for the Edgar J. Kaufmann family, this house, which blends stone, concrete, steel, glass, and wood, celebrates what Wright termed “organic architecture.”
With the help of our tour guide, Millie from West Virginia, we approached the house. At first sight, Fallingwater was magnificent. Wright’s design philosophy was evident in the “hidden” doorway, a narrow entrance that transitioned into open spaces meant to connect inhabitants with nature. The structure is supported by concrete beams that project out over the waterfall, creating an impression of weightlessness.
The entrance repeated Wright’s “compression and release” philosophy, and he continued the cantilever motif, making much of the furniture and design elements an echo of the home’s overall design. The living room’s open design encouraged social interaction while the more intimate upstairs rooms offered privacy. The master bedroom, with its large balcony over the waterfall, provided a serene and breathtaking view.
We noticed Wright’s attention to detail, such as the seamless glass-to-glass windows, which eliminated barriers between the indoors and the natural world, as well as the art work in the home–much of which also repeated the cantilever design.
Indeed, art was a theme throughout the house, with a Picasso, several Audubon works, and a Diego Rivera (Frida Kahlo was a guest at the house!).
Our tour concluded with a view of the waterfall from across the home, capturing the full splendor of Wright’s integration of architecture and nature.
We all sat momentarily, taking in the beauty and snapping photos, cherishing the experience.
Our group’s arrival in Pittsburgh for the Southern Legislative Conference marked the beginning of an enriching journey through art, culture, and history. Eager to delve into the city’s offerings, we kicked off our exploration at the renowned Carnegie Museum of Art.
Our visit to the Carnegie Museum of Art was a journey through time and artistic expression, a tapestry woven with modern marvels and timeless classics. As we entered the galleries, we were greeted by a vibrant array of contemporary artworks that challenged our perceptions and sparked our imaginations.
With familiar artists such as Mark Rothko, Jackson Pollock, Vincent Van Gogh, and Isamu Noguchi, our group was fully immersed in the Museum’s collection.
Cinthia and I found a familiar touchstone in Georgia O’Keeffe’s painting of an adobe church. Having recently visited New Mexico, where these structures dot the landscape, we were transported back to the sun-drenched vistas and rugged beauty of the Southwest. O’Keeffe’s ability to capture the essence of these structures resonated deeply with us, bridging our past experiences with the present moment.
In contrast to the contemporary pieces, the hall of Greek sculptures offered a glimpse into ancient mythology and classical beauty. Among the serene depictions of gods and goddesses, one sculpture stood out—a modern twist on antiquity. An oversized figure sat casually, engrossed in a smartphone, a stark commentary on contemporary culture.
The contrast between the timeless marble and the modern device held a mirror to our society’s evolving relationship with technology.
As we explored further, we encountered the dynamic works of Stanton MacDonald-Wright, whose vibrant compositions danced with color and rhythm. His mastery of synchromism, a style he co-founded, brought a sense of harmony and movement to the canvas, captivating us with its energy and vitality.
However, it was in the surreal and unexpected that we found our deepest connections. René Magritte’s “The Spirit of Family” challenged us to confront the discomfort of recognizing the familiar in the unfamiliar, echoing themes of surrealism that provoke and intrigue. For me, surrealism isn’t just about aesthetics—it’s about delving into the subconscious, where dreams and reality merge in unexpected ways.
Not far behind, Michelle, with her unwavering love for Impressionism, led us straight to the Monet Lilies, where she stood in awe of their ethereal beauty. Her eyes gleamed with admiration as she traced the delicate brushstrokes that brought Monet’s gardens to life.
Cinthia, on the other hand, found herself captivated by Renoir’s “The Garden in the Rue Cortot, Montmartre.” The painting’s vibrant hues and tranquil atmosphere transported us to a serene Parisian afternoon, where we could almost feel the warmth of the sun and smell the fragrant flowers.
Our journey took an unexpected turn when I almost missed Francis Bacon’s haunting painting. Titled simply but evocatively, Bacon’s work captured the raw intensity of human emotion in a way that both unsettled and captivated us. It was a poignant reminder of the power art holds to provoke and stir our innermost thoughts.
As we wandered through the museum’s corridors, each artwork seemed to tell a story, inviting us to unravel its mysteries and absorb its messages. From Degas’ delicate sculptures to the bold strokes of Francis Bacon, every piece sparked conversations that ranged from artistic techniques to philosophical musings on life and existence.
Our visit wasn’t just about admiring famous names on canvas—it was a journey of discovery, where we uncovered new passions and deepened our appreciation for the artists who shaped the course of art history. The Carnegie Museum of Art became more than a collection of paintings; it became a sanctuary of inspiration and contemplation.
As we bid farewell to the museum, our hearts and minds brimmed with newfound insights and shared experiences. The day had been a celebration of friendship, curiosity, and the enduring power of art to provoke thought and stir emotions. It was a reminder that amidst our hectic lives, moments of cultural exploration with friends are not just enriching but essential for nurturing our souls.
The Carnegie Museum of Art had not only expanded our artistic horizons but had also reinforced the bonds of friendship that drew us together. It had ignited a passion for creativity and a hunger for knowledge, leaving us eagerly anticipating our next adventure in the world of art and culture.
Ambassadors enjoy a Warhol Self-Portrait at Carnegie, in anticipation of the Warhol Museum
Next, we ventured to the Cathedral of Learning, an architectural marvel at the University of Pittsburgh.
Its Gothic spires soared above us as we explored the intricately designed commons area.
It was a beautiful building, one that reminded us that the architecture can play a large role in education and receptivity to learning.
Exploring Art and Nature at the Phipps Conservatory and Botanical Garden
Our recent visit to the Phipps Conservatory and Botanical Garden was a delightful blend of art, nature, and learning.
As we stepped into the conservatory, we were immediately greeted by the mesmerizing Goldenrod, Teal, and Citron Chandelier, which hung magnificently from the dome of the welcome center. This stunning piece by Dale Chihuly set the tone for the rest of our visit, showcasing his extraordinary talent in manipulating glass into captivating forms and colors.
Wandering through the various rooms and pathways, we encountered several other Chihuly installations that added vibrant and artistic touches to the already beautiful garden setting. The delicate Cattails and the bold, colorful Paint Brushes were among the many pieces that stood out, each one enhancing the lush greenery and floral displays around them. Chihuly’s art, with its intricate designs and brilliant hues, created a magical atmosphere that enriched our visit.
Beyond the captivating glasswork, the conservatory was a botanical wonderland teeming with life. We found ourselves surrounded by hundreds of different plants and flowers, each adding to the garden’s rich tapestry of colors and scents.
One of the most thrilling parts of our visit was exploring the Butterfly Forest. This enchanting area allowed us to witness a variety of butterfly species fluttering around, creating a truly magical ambiance. The Monarch and Zebra Longwing butterflies were particularly memorable, their vibrant colors and delicate wings adding a sense of whimsy and wonder to the experience.
Adding to the enchantment, we encountered many beautiful flowing fountains, fish, and other creatures crafted entirely out of flowers and plants.
As we continued our journey, we discovered the Orchid Room, a space dedicated to the stunning diversity of orchid species. This room was a feast for the senses, with an array of beautiful orchids in every imaginable color and shape adorning the space. Some of our favorite species were the Vanda Orchid and the Lady Slipper Orchids.
Overall, our visit to the Phipps Conservatory and Botanical Garden was both fun and educational.
We thoroughly enjoyed exploring the beautiful gardens, marveling at Chihuly’s art, and learning more about the diverse plant species.
Max’s Allegheny Tavern
Energized by our cultural immersion, we savored traditional German-inspired cuisine at Max’s Allegheny Tavern. The quaint charm of the restaurant was evident from the moment we walked in, with its cozy ambiance accentuated by adorable lamp shades casting a warm glow.
As a newbie to German food, Michelle and Cinthia were eager to try some of the region’s specialties. The potato pancakes were a revelation, crispy on the outside and fluffy inside, served with applesauce for a perfect blend of flavors. The bratwurst was hearty and satisfying, accompanied by tangy sauerkraut that complemented its savory goodness. And who could forget the schnitzel? Tender and perfectly breaded, it melted in my mouth with every bite.
Overall, Max’s Allegheny Tavern surpassed my expectations, not just with its delicious dishes but also with its inviting atmosphere. It’s definitely a place we hope to return to for more culinary adventures
Duquesne Incline
Visiting Pittsburgh for the first time was an unforgettable experience, made even more magical by a ride on the Duquesne Incline. As the sun set, we boarded the historic cable car that ascended Mount Washington. The city’s skyline, illuminated against the darkening sky, unfolded before me in a breathtaking display of lights and architecture. It was a view that truly encapsulated Pittsburgh’s charm and beauty.
The incline itself, with its rich history dating back to the late 19th century, added a sense of nostalgia to the journey. Originally built to transport workers up and down the steep hillside, today it serves as both a historic landmark and a beloved tourist attraction.
The weather that evening was perfect—a cool breeze complemented by a clear sky—making the experience even more enjoyable. Arriving at the summit, I found myself surrounded by panoramic views of Pittsburgh’s twinkling lights and shimmering rivers. It was the perfect end to a day filled with exploration and discovery in a city that had already captured my heart.
The Duquesne Incline not only provided a literal and metaphorical high point of my Pittsburgh visit but also set the stage for a day filled with new experiences and cherished memories.
Andy Warhol Museum
Being in Pittsburgh for the first time has been a fantastic experience; from the weather to the beautiful architecture, it has all been breathtaking. The variety of new foods from Max’s Tavern was an adventure, preparing us for the sensory feast at the museum. Our latest adventure took us to the Andy Warhol Museum, blending art, history, and personal discovery. Having recently watched a documentary on Warhol, I was particularly excited to see his artistic evolution across the museum’s seven floors.
The Andy Warhol Museum takes visitors on a chronological journey through Warhol’s life and work, from his early years on the top floor to the final years of his prolific career on the ground floor. This layout allowed us to see the progression of his style and the expansion of his artistic repertoire in a way that felt like stepping through a living biography.
On the top floor, we were introduced to Warhol’s early life, trying to identify him in old-school photos. This personal touch made the experience more intimate. Warhol’s early commercial art, including his advertisements and product illustrations, hinted at his future as a leading figure in pop art.
Descending the floors, we encountered various works, from his famous Campbell’s Soup Cans to his iconic Brillo Boxes.
We marveled at his silkscreen technique, which he used to create the vibrant Marilyn Monroe series and the striking Elvis Presley prints. Seeing these pieces up close highlighted the bold colors and repetitive patterns that defined his style.
One of the most playful parts was the Silver Clouds room, filled with giant, reflective silver balloons. We could not resist gently pushing them around, feeling the air lift them up.
Before leaving, Cinthia, Olivia, and I took pictures on the museum’s famous red couch, a nod to Warhol’s studio. Connecting the documentary insights with the exhibits added depth to our visit, making it a memorable chapter in our Pittsburgh adventure.
Reflecting on our enriching day, Pittsburgh emerged not only as a city of steel and industry but also as a vibrant cultural hub. Each visit—from the Carnegie Museum’s artistic splendors to the Cathedral of Learning’s educational marvels, Max’s Allegheny Tavern’s culinary delights, the Duquesne Incline’s panoramic views, and the Andy Warhol Museum’s artistic legacy—contributed to a deeper appreciation of Pittsburgh’s diverse and dynamic character. As our journey with the Southern Legislative Conference continues, Pittsburgh remains an inspiring destination where art, culture, and history converge to create lasting memories for all who visit.
As we prepare for the next leg of our Southern Legislative Conference trip, Pittsburgh a highlight of our trip—a city where art, history, and culture converge to create an unforgettable experience for all who visit.
The LEAP Ambassadors were founded on the same principles that animate many community organizations, so it was a pleasure to be invited to the Lions Club meeting last week.
It was an event we looked forward to, and one made all the more special when we learned that Michelle Spencer of Walker County Boys & Girls Club was the guest speaker!
We had a chance to meet the Lions new President, Julie Hill, who presided over her first meeting.
We also had a chance to see old friends, such as Dottie Fulton, Greg Smith, Casey Spencer, Brian Blalock, Glenn Schumacher, Gaye Clements, and Brenda Poe. In fact, it was Ms. Poe who invited, a thanks for participating in their “Flag Project,” which we are happy to do.
Although we know much about the Walker County Boys & Girls Club, we learned more with the opportunity to hear from Ms. Spencer.
It was gratifying to hear again of the hundreds of children, K-12, who benefit from the non-profit’s organizations; but we also learned more about their adult literacy programs.
Of course, we knew of their ESL classes, because we partner with them on our Citizenship Program; but we also learned about their efforts to help local residents obtain their GED.
In fact, we learned that, with their instruction and classes, students aged 16-67 have obtained that distinction!
We also learned of their upcoming Oktoberfest Bingo, which takes place on Saturday, October 12, 2024 from 6-10pm. Programs such as these are not only great fun, but the money raised supports a great cause, and donations and grants provide the large majority of the Boys & Girls Club annual budget, so participation is much needed.
In fact, we pondered ways we might be able to help, a matter to be addressed at LEAP’s next annual meeting.
We were grateful for the invitation to attend the Lions Club meeting, another golden opportunity for us to see the community in action.
Organizations such as the Lions Club support important causes globally, provide key programming locally, and help connect components of the community that foster collaboration–and these actions, in turn, produce stronger communities. It was a pleasure to be part of it for the day.
Every spring, the Wynne Home sponsors “Empty Bowls,” a program that manages to promote ceramics, the culinary arts, and to fight hunger–all in the same event. This year, the event–organized by Angela Robinson–was particularly successful, with a record number of attendees and a lot of fun! And for approximately the 15th year in a row, the LEAP Ambassadors were there to help.
The primary purpose of the event is to raise funds to fight food insecurity. The program, which is international in scope, is administered fully by local communities, and in Walker County, the program is administered by the Wynne Home, and the funds raised go to the “Meals on Wheels” program at the Senior Center.
Wynne Home staff reach out to businesses and other organizations to donate soup while HEB also offers finger foods, giving “customers” many food options. This year, soups were donated by Sam’s Table, City Hall Cafe, Huntsville High School, Fives Loaves Deli and Potato Shack.
Each customer, then, buys a lunch for a suggested donation of $15, and these funds are then donated to the Senior Center.
If this is all there was, it would still be a worthwhile program, but there is much more to it. Throughout the year, ceramicists offer training courses, helping local residents shape and glaze materials into pottery. Some locals reserve their pottery, which means they can pick it up on (or around) the Empty Bowls date, while others donate their product to the event.
LEAP Ambassadors Prepare Their Bowls for Glazing
Then, as “customers” purchase soup at Empty Bowls, they receive one of the pieces of pottery, not only as a work of art to keep, but also as a reminder that some people face empty bowls every day.
Those with the most skill at crafting bowls–many of SHSU Professor Lauren Clay’s students, for example–donate their bowls for silent auction, which raises additional funds.
Beyond the record crowds this year, much fun was involved. People enjoyed the decor in the wonderful Wynne Home as well as the art from the latest exhibit featuring the work of Mary Ann Vaca-Lambert.
Aron Kulhavy, the City Manager, was in attendance…
…and his fun-loving staff were sure to pick out a bowl for him.
Speaking of his staff, they were, as usual, hard at work, while being surrounded by all their friends and supporters.
For everyone else, the companionship and satisfaction of joining a good cause was enjoyable…
…as it was for the LEAP Ambassadors.
Congratulations to the Senior Center, and many thanks to the Wynne Home for strengthening our Huntsville community through this noble cause!
For the past ten years, SHSU pre-law students have anticipated participating in the Mock Law School Class presented by Professor Val Ricks, Professor at Houston’s South Texas College of Law, and author of law school casebooks on contract law.
This semester, the LEAP Center was excited to welcome the following guests to the Mock Law School Class: Judge Kim Webb, an SHSU alum and a current Justice of the Peace in San Jacinto County; and Ryann Bauer with student members of the Huntsville High School’s Criminal Justice Program.
As in an actual law school class, Professor Ricks expected the 46 registered students to come to class prepared by reading and briefing the case beforehand. After briefly stating the relevant facts of the contract case, Ricks used a random number generator to select students to discuss the legal issue of the case. With skillful Socratic questioning, Ricks led the pre-law students through the analysis of the legal issue in the case, the rule of law, and how the court applied the rule of law in the case.
Neehal Ahmed appreciated Professor Ricks’ teaching style. Ahmed commented, “Professor Ricks made contracts, a daunting subject, seem far less scary through his patient and thorough explanation of concepts and their functions.”
At the conclusion of the contract case discussion, Professor Ricks presented the students with a hypothetical set of facts, similar to a question on a law school exam.
Ricks called on students to analyze the legal issue posed in the hypothetical and asked the class how a court would rule on the legal issue based on the legal reasoning from the contract case discussed earlier in class.
In reflecting on the Mock Law School Class, Christina Biello mirrored the thoughts of a lot of attendees before attending the class. Christina explained, “I was both frightened and eager because I had no idea what to anticipate, even after hours of preparation. However, experiencing Professor Val Ricks’ instruction confirmed my desire to attend law school, and it no longer seems as daunting.”
Neehal Ahmed summed up the experience by recommending “Professor Ricks’ mock law classes to any of those who are interested in attending law school but are scared of the subject matter they may encounter. If you come prepared, this experience can put a lot of your doubts and worries to rest.”
The LEAP Center and Pre-Law Society would like to thank South Texas College of Law–Houston and Professor Val Ricks for their time. As Professor Ricks noted, “I’ve been doing these visits for long enough that I’ve taught students at SHSU in the mock law class, then taught them a class at STCL, and seen them graduate. It’s very gratifying.”
We’d also like to thank Ms. Bauer from Huntsville High School and her wonderful students Hannah Ruth, Riane Davis, and Bethany Bell…
…as well as Judge Kim Webb.
It was a pleasure to have other programs in the community with a dedication to educating students join us for this enriching event!
Our final highlight of an epic trip was to the University of Oklahoma in Norman, Oklahoma in order to attend a tour of OU College of Law. This law school sets itself apart instantly just by the size of the building. It is by far the largest of the three we visited while on this trip, with the courtrooms alone being some of the largest in the nation!
Before getting into the tour, the Director of Admissions, Maddie Ferris, took the time to sit with us and discuss where we are in our respective pre-law journeys and was a resource for all of our burning questions.
This was especially kind, and we greatly appreciate her time. As first-generation students, we are heading into the law field with a lot to learn, and the time with her was very helpful.
We also had a wonderful tour, led by OU Law student Candalyn Lyons. We had the chance to view their beautiful library while gaining insight on the various amenities, opportunities, and the culture of OU Law. We were given an awesome tour, and we learned a lot about the virtues of OU Law.
Located less than three hours from Dallas, the school’s last incoming class had a median LSAT of 159 and GPA of 3.71. With in-state tuition less than $23,000 annually, the school offers various clinics and boasts a first-time bar-passage rate of greater than 90 percent. As an added bonus, the school is located in pretty Norman, Oklahoma, a college town of moderate size, which is, in turn, about thirty minutes from the much-larger Oklahoma City.
Just that morning we had seen Oklahoma City, and we spent a bit more time that afternoon looking around OU’s campus–which is beautiful!
We saw numerous pieces of art work by James Surls, Jesus Moroles, a piece by Allan Houser, and we also saw our first “LOVE” sculpture by Robert Indiana.
We were perhaps most impressed by the University’s reading library, which resembles something out of a Harry Potter movie!
This was a great end to a great trip, with much learning about art, the law, architecture, food, and the outdoors.
This trip, a microcosm of the LEAP program’s offerings, cannot be defined nor summarized with an all-encompassing statement, or at least, not in a manner that truly does them justice. However, this tour allowed Cinthia and I to experience a plethora of things that we likely would not have done if not for the amazing opportunities the LEAP Center provides.
In just 8 days, we had 7 dishes with green chili, stayed in 6 different hotels, heavily familiarized ourselves with 5 artists from each of the 4 states we drove through, toured 3 law schools, got stuck in the snow 2 times, and had 1 amazing time doing it all! It was a great trip, full of learning, and we were very grateful to end it on such a high note amidst the friendly hospitality of the Oklahoma prairie.
Center for Law, Engagement, and Politics 