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One-on-One with Jim Olson: LEAP Students Dive into the World of Counterintelligence

By Quinn Kobrin

In a continuation of the LEAP Center’s Facebook one-on-one series, Professor Yawn interviewed Professor Jim Olson about his life during and after his career as a CIA case officer. This having been my first time hearing Mr. Olson speak, I was astounded at how little I knew about the world of counterintelligence.

Olson began the conversation with a definition of counterintelligence. He explained that its purpose is to protect the United States from other nations who may try to steal our secrets and technology. Much to my surprise, he told us that there are approximately 80 countries spying on us right now.

The conversation then turned to Olson’s 31-year career in the Clandestine Service. He was asked about his cover identity, which he could not share in great detail, but he explained that when he was in another nation, he would often have a cover as a U.S. diplomat, so he would have diplomatic immunity if he got into trouble. Sometimes, however, he was in other countries without working as a diplomat, and therefore would be subject to that country’s justice system if he were caught.

He shared that he and his wife – also a case officer within the CIA – never anticipated to come out from their cover identities, because doing so posed a threat to themselves and to their family. However, he was approached by President George H.W. Bush and George Tenet (former Director Central Intelligence) to work at the Bush School of Public Service. Olson was excited for the opportunity, but there is a CIA policy that does not allow officers to go onto college campuses covertly (which was news to me). So, he was forced to give up his cover.

In a similar vein, he was asked about how he and his wife broke the news to their children that they were officers in the CIA, and how they took it. Apparently, when he was stationed in Vienna, terrorists managed to get ahold of his address and sent him a death threat. They decided to tell their oldest son, who was sixteen at the time, and asked him to look after his siblings. As each of their children learned, he said, they took the information in with a sense of pride. He told us that each of his children has now gone on to pursue a career in the service of others.

Next he discussed CIA recruitment methods. We learned that the CIA seeks out a variety of candidates who may be cut out for a career as a case officer. Mainly, they are looking for character; they want recruits who are reliable and trustworthy.

To prepare for a career in the Clandestine Service (one of the most commonly asked questions of the event) Olson said that a bachelor’s degree usually would not be enough, and that students should aim to get a graduate degree of some kind. He suggested learning new languages, taking on roles of leadership, and working in positions that might allow you to travel abroad.

Aldrich Ames

On the subject of character, he spoke briefly about some former CIA officers who betrayed the United States. He spoke vehemently about his former colleague Aldrich “Rick” Ames, who he considers the worst traitor to the country for turning over to the KGB. He explained that Ames had identified Russians who were working for the CIA to the KGB, which led to their imprisonment or execution.

  • SHSU, LEAP Center, Center for Law Engagement And Politics, CIA, Jim Olson, TAMU Bush School
  • SHSU, LEAP Center, Center for Law Engagement And Politics, CIA, Jim Olson, TAMU Bush School
  • SHSU, LEAP Center, Center for Law Engagement And Politics, CIA, Jim Olson, TAMU Bush School
  • SHSU, LEAP Center, Center for Law Engagement And Politics, CIA, Jim Olson, TAMU Bush School

To wrap up the session, we asked Olson what he wanted people to know about the CIA. He explained that CIA case officers are public servants. They do not do what they do for money, power, prestige, or status. They do what they do with honorable intentions.

It was a great experience to hear Mr. Olson speak live, and I look forward to reading his book, To Catch a Spy: The Art of Counterintelligence!

Author mikeyawnPosted on November 4, 2020November 4, 2020Format AsideCategories Civic Engagement, Civil Rights, Jobs, Law, Literature, PoliticsTags Center for Law Engagement And Politics, CIA, Counterintelligence, Facebook, Facebook Live, Jim Olson, LEAP, LEAP at SHSU, LEAP Center, President George H. W. Bush, Sam Houston State University, SHSULeave a comment on One-on-One with Jim Olson: LEAP Students Dive into the World of Counterintelligence

Eisenhower on Eisenhower: Susan Eisenhower Discusses Her Grandfather’s Life and Leadership

Despite all of the challenges of COVID-19, the Center for Law, Engagement, and Politics continues to provide engaging and interesting learning opportunities for students. Most recently, students were able to watch a Facebook live interview with President Dwight D. Eisenhower’s granddaughter, Susan Eisenhower, where she discussed her grandfather’s leadership in World War II and as president. Author of the biography How Ike Led, she had much to share about his life and overall legacy.

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The interview began with a look at President Eisenhower’s role in D-Day,

SHSU, LEAP Center, Center for Law Engagement And Politics, LEAP LIVE, Susan Eisenhower, How Ike Led, Dwight Eisenhower

liberating Europe from Nazi rule, and his handling of the discovery of concentration camps. It was explained that Eisenhower opted for a broad, slow advance to defeat the Nazi empire, rather than a fast and hasty one. He wanted to bring an end to the regime, and prevent it from rising to power again, and for his approach he was criticized by some who wanted a quicker–but riskier–approach.

In spite of his critics, this slow advance would be an important factor that led to the discovery of concentration camps. When he learned of the atrocities, he took it upon himself to examine every corner of the camps to understand what had happened and how it had come to pass.

She told us that he then issued orders for as many people as possible to document and bear witness to the camps. He brought in journalists, elected officials, and everyone fighting on the front lines.

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He then had townspeople from surrounding areas marched through to see what their denial and willful ignorance had led to, and many were made to give burials to the deceased.

As she discussed the importance of Eisenhower’s foresight, and how he was able to anticipate that many people would not believe what had happened in the camps, Susan Eisenhower reminded us that Germany is one of the few countries in the world with zero tolerance of Holocaust denial. LEAP ambassadors learned about Germany’s efforts to reverse the wrongs of the Holocaust and its lingering effects earlier this year.

As the discussion transitioned to Eisenhower’s post-war service, I learned several interesting facts about his commitment to service and duty…

Apparently, on more than one occasion, President Truman offered not to run for reelection after his term, and instead let Eisenhower run for the Democratic nomination. Eisenhower refused each time because he was not in search of power. His granddaughter reminded us that he had wielded more power than most other leaders during World War II, and did not want run for president except when he felt it was his absolutely duty to do so.

A few other aspects of his commitment to duty were his refusal to wear a helmet because they should only be worn by those serving in combat, and his refusal to accept the Congressional Medal of Honor for the same reason – it was meant for those who had shown valor in combat.

SHSU, LEAP Center, Center for Law Engagement And Politics, LEAP LIVE, Susan Eisenhower, How Ike Led, Dwight Eisenhower

The conversation then pivoted to Eisenhower’s leadership style as president of the United States. It was made clear that he did not engage in personal attacks; he was strategic and methodical in his political approach. When dealing with Senator McCarthy and his infamous hearings, Eisenhower did not call him out directly. Instead, he gave speeches about what American democracy should look like, insisted on televising the outrageous investigations, and let the Senate come to censure McCarthy on their own.

President Eisenhower also suffered no nonsense when it came to dealing with issues of race. As LEAP ambassadors learned in January of this year, the governor of Arkansas – Orval Faubus – dragged his feet in complying with the decision of Brown v. Board of Education, and made every effort to not desegregate schools. In response to this, Eisenhower mobilized the Arkansas National Guard and deployed 101st Airborne (paratroopers he had commanded on D-Day) to protect a group of African American students, immortalized in history as the “Little Rock Nine,” as they desegregated Little Rock Central High.

SHSU, LEAP Center, Center for Law Engagement And Politics, LEAP LIVE, Susan Eisenhower, How Ike Led, Dwight Eisenhower

Susan Eisenhower then spoke about how her grandfather was a leader through study and discipline, and was naturally empathetic. He knew what people needed to hear, and tried to be relatable and genuine whenever he could. We saw a picture of him speaking with members of the 101st Airborne Division prior to D-Day and were told that he was discussing fly-fishing techniques with Lt. Wallace Strobel, rather than giving a pep talk about their mission. He wanted to remind them of their humanity.

SHSU, LEAP Center, Center for Law Engagement And Politics, LEAP LIVE, Susan Eisenhower, How Ike Led, Dwight Eisenhower

Finally, President Eisenhower’s legacy of leadership and empathy are embodied eternally in Norman Rockwell’s portraits of him, which at various times depict him both serious and smiling. As his granddaughter explained, the big, toothy grin we saw was his trademark smile, as he was generally in good spirits around his family.

SHSU, LEAP Center, Center for Law Engagement And Politics, LEAP LIVE, Susan Eisenhower, How Ike Led, Dwight Eisenhower

As the meeting came to a close, Susan Eisenhower reminded us that we will “be better as people if we can understand the views of those who come from…different backgrounds,” encouraging us to be ‘like Ike’ when it came to how we view and deal with those who are different than us.

This interview was so interesting and informative, and we were incredibly lucky to hear from Susan Eisenhower. We are grateful for her time and insight, and look forward to the possibility of meeting her in person someday soon.

SHSU, LEAP Center, Center for Law Engagement And Politics, LEAP LIVE, Susan Eisenhower, How Ike Led, Dwight Eisenhower, Norman Rockwell
Author mikeyawnPosted on October 28, 2020Format AsideCategories Art, Civic Engagement, Civil Rights, Fun, Law, Literature, TravelTags Facebook, Facebook Live, Ike Eisenhower, LEAP, LEAP at SHSU, LEAP Center, President Dwight D. Eisenhower, President Eisenhower, Sam Houston State University, SHSU, Susan EisenhowerLeave a comment on Eisenhower on Eisenhower: Susan Eisenhower Discusses Her Grandfather’s Life and Leadership

LEAP LEADs: Education and Health

LEAP LEADS: Meeting Four

Our fourth LEAP LEADs meeting was, again, full of educational opportunities. As soon as everyone settled in, we jumped right in by discussing our potential future careers and practiced interviewing used the STAR (Situation, Task, Action, Result) method.

We separated into two groups: the interviewers and the interviewees. I love speaking, so I decided that I wanted to be an interviewer, and when the scenario began, I asked Jayelynn and Juan questions regarding the position of being a Victim’s Advocate.

SHSU, Sam Houston State University, LEAP Center, Center for Law Engagement And Politics, LEAP LEADs

As we wrapped up the interview process, we learned that the STAR method is a tried and true way to make a strong impression in an interview. By sharing an example and relating it to the interview question, you can support your answers with evidence. The best part about this exercise is that we experienced how it feels to interview and be interviewed by our peers.

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While eating fantastic food from Mama Juanita’s, we tune into the Texas Tribune Festival. The discussion this tonight is about how COVID-19 affects higher education, with a panel featuring Chancellor Renu Khator from the University of Houston System, Chancellor J.B. Milliken from the University of Texas System, and John Sharp from the Texas A&M University System.

These systems are three of the most prominent university systems in Texas, so the respective chancellors wanted to address students’ and parents’ concerns about the next step for higher education. Each chancellor expressed their concerns regarding student and faculty health, and all of them explained that their schools have structured protocol if a faculty or student gets in contact with COVID-19.

The chancellors all confirmed that they were restricting their in-person classes to, at least in one case, to as low as 5% of their total classes.  They also stressed the need to be flexible and make necessary changes. It was interesting to find out that, while some Universities cancelled their football games (SHSU included) these three Universities did not. Chancellor J.B. Milliken explained, “…we will have social distancing guidelines for our stadium, and we will require fans to wear masks.”

SHSU, Sam Houston State University, LEAP Center, Center for Law Engagement And Politics, LEAP LEADs

Lastly, we tuned into our final Texas Tribune discussion, which addressed Public Health and the 87th Legislature in Texas.

The discussion featured Representative Senfronia Thompson (D) from Houston, Texas, and Representative James Frank (R) from Wichita Falls, Texas. Representative Thompson has the honor of being the longest-serving African American woman for the Houston area since 1972.

SHSU, Sam Houston State University, LEAP Center, Center for Law Engagement And Politics, LEAP LEADs

Representative Frank is a successful businessman in his fourth term in the Texas House of Representatives. The discussion centered around nursing homes, how they have been directly hit by COVID-19, and how the elderly are being negatively affected by the various policies and protocols in place to deal with the pandemic. Representative Thompson shared how her sister had an immediate effect on being housed at a nursing home during COVID-19, and unfortunately, she passed away due to her health conditions. While public health is currently vital in Texas, the 87th legislative session will occur on January 12, 2021.This meeting has been my favorite because I got to learn how chancellors run their university systems while learning about public health.

SHSU, Sam Houston State University, LEAP Center, Center for Law Engagement And Politics, LEAP LEADs

 

 

 

 

 

Author mikeyawnPosted on September 27, 2020September 27, 2020Format AsideCategories Civic Engagement, Health, PoliticsTags Center for Law Engagement And Politics, LEAP Center, LEAP LEADs, Sam Houston State University, SHSULeave a comment on LEAP LEADs: Education and Health

LEAP LEADS: My Future Self

By Jayelynn Bordeaux

It is often easy to get caught up in school and extracurricular activities, and I find myself getting lost. Over the past few weeks, Leap LEADs has been influencing me to keep my eye on the prize. Adjusting to school this semester has been a struggle, but tonight’s meeting, and the exercises we did….

SHSU, Sam Houston State University, LEAP Center, LEAP LEADs, Texas Tribune Festival

….made me think about why I came to college and what I want to leave with.

The night began with us talking about our day-to-day schedule and time management. Specifically, we got estimates of how much time we spent in a week attending class, studying, working out, eating, self-care, sleeping, leisure time, etc. Iriyana added up the total hours spent in the week and we pondered about what we did with the rest of our time.

Personally, this led me to evaluate how I am using my time and opened my eyes to my free time I am not using wisely. We also spent some times discussing short-term, medium-term, and long-term goals, and how those should fit together.

Professor Yawn emphasized the importance of making sure our short term goals match up with our goals in the future. This is very important to me because if I do not begin to prepare now and take baby steps toward who I want to be in the long run, then I am wasting my time. We discussed the areas we lack professionally, which leads to the importance of self-awareness. Self-awareness is substantial because before you can elevate you have to be alert to the baggage holding you back.

I feel one of the motives of Leap Leads is to make us aware. Whether it be aware of our opportunities, potential, knowledge, future, etc. Tonight I was driven to be knowledgeable of the levels of court. Particularly, we discussed Texas’s five-tiered court system. The lowest levels being the Justice of Peace and Municipal Court .  Both courts deal with misdemeanors, with a focus on traffic stops and misdemeanors punishable by fine only. The County Court at law deals with cases more severe than minor offenses. For example, Class A and B misdemeanors or DWI cases (where no one was hurt).

The higher levels of court are the District Courts, Appeals Court and then the highest level: the Supreme Court and Court of Criminal Appeals. Texas is a bit different because they have the Supreme court and the Texas Court of Criminal Appeals. The Supreme Court deals with civil cases and the Texas Court of Criminal Appeals deals with criminal cases, for example, murders and the death penalty. Something I learned that stuck out to me about the county government is that a county judge is not a traditional judge. County judges are able to marry people and declare a person insane, but unless they preside over one of the smaller counties, they have little to do with the traditional concept of a judge.

Speaking of County Judges, tonight we were enlightened by the appearances of Lina Hidalgo and Clay Jenkins at the Texas Tribune Festival while enjoying dinner from City Hall Cafe.

SHSU, Sam Houston State University, LEAP Center, LEAP LEADs, Texas Tribune Festival

Lina Hidalgo is the Harris County judge and Clay Jenkins is the Dallas County judge.

Lina Hidalgo began her term as the County of Harris County in 2018. This was significant because she was the first woman to be elected county judge in Harris county.

SHSU, Sam Houston State University, LEAP Center, LEAP LEADs, Texas Tribune Festival

Clay Jenkins has been a county judge in Dallas since 2011.

Both judges expressed difficulties they have had dealing with the outbreak of the CoronaVirus. Specifically, with the legislation put in place by Governor Abbott restricting their power to enforce masks due to Covid-19. I agreed with Hidalgo’s statements that the enforcement of masks should not be political and rather just what is best for communities. Both County Judges discussed having concerns with the outbreak before anything was done and were not in favor of opening up before the curve had flattened. Ultimately, I took away that County Judges normally have a lot more power when a state of emergency is declared.

SHSU, Sam Houston State University, LEAP Center, LEAP LEADs, Texas Tribune Festival

I spent some time interacting with Juan during our workshop, which was on property tax.  We learned how to calculate property taxes, learning the role of the Appraisal District, the Commissioners Court, and the taxpayer in the process.

SHSU, Sam Houston State University, LEAP Center, LEAP LEADs, Texas Tribune Festival

This evening was informative and I believe Leap Leads is keeping me on track with my goals in the future. We ended with Professor Yawn challenging us to do something different this week.

 

 

 

Author mikeyawnPosted on September 25, 2020Format AsideCategories Civic Engagement, Jobs, PoliticsTags Clay Jenkins, LEAP Center, LEAP LEADs, Lina Hidalgo, Sam Houston State University, SHSU, Tax Rate, Texas Tribune FestivalLeave a comment on LEAP LEADS: My Future Self

Artistic Landmarks: Nancy Rubins’ “Monochrome”

Whenever the LEAP Center heads to Austin, which is often, we do our best to visit the wonderful “Landmarks” art installations on UT’s campus.  Among the most astounding pieces of art is Nancy Rubins’ “Monochrome.”  Whenever students see it for the first time, they step away from it–not only to get a better look, but also for fear that it might fall on them.

SHSU, UT, University of Texas, Sam Houston State University, LEAP Center, Center for Law Engagement And Politics, Nancy Rubins, Jaime Garza, Landmarks

But between the creative vision Nancy Rubins and engineer Jaime Garza, this sculpture is not going to fall.

The story behind the art and the engineering was presented by Landmarks yesterday, and it involved quite a panel: Andree Bober (Director of Landmarks), Professor Tricia Clayton (Cockrell School of Engineering), and Jaime Garza (the project Engineer), and Dean Sharon Wood (Cockrell School of Engineering.

Rubins began by describing how she modeled the art work…

SHSU, UT, University of Texas, Sam Houston State University, LEAP Center, Center for Law Engagement And Politics, Nancy Rubins, Jaime Garza, Landmarks

…beginning with the structure and moving into a full-blown study…

SHSU, UT, University of Texas, Sam Houston State University, LEAP Center, Center for Law Engagement And Politics, Nancy Rubins, Jaime Garza, Landmarks

..to what it is today, “at the crossroads of the University’s science and humanities” parts of the campus.

SHSU, UT, University of Texas, Sam Houston State University, LEAP Center, Center for Law Engagement And Politics, Nancy Rubins, Jaime Garza, Landmarks

Rubins began incorporating boats into her work in 2006, after seeing her husband work on her canoe.  She was drawn to the canoes’ surface, as well as its combination of figurative and abstract elements.  This attraction was deepened by the different look that the canoes manifest in the rain, in the light, and other changing atmospheric conditions.

After Rubins’ discussed her artistic vision, Professor Clayton prompted Garza to describe the technical challenges associated with such a sculpture.  These challenges did, indeed, become rather technical…

SHSU, UT, University of Texas, Sam Houston State University, LEAP Center, Center for Law Engagement And Politics, Nancy Rubins, Jaime Garza, Landmarks

In this case, Nancy came up with the original model, which Garza then analyzed, making suggestions as to what would work best from an engineering perspective.  The diagram on the right indicates the stress points of the sculpture, with the blue and green colors representing “low stress.”

Rubins wanted the sculpture to be applicable to “anywhere in the world.”  What that means in practical terms is that it needs to hold up under any conditions: snow, rain, earthquakes, heat, and hurricanes.  So Garza imagined “worst-case scenarios” for different parts of the world, ensured that the sculpture could survive those (with a lightning rod installed, also), and then also ensured that the sculpture could also meet the building codes of Austin.

SHSU, UT, University of Texas, Sam Houston State University, LEAP Center, Center for Law Engagement And Politics, Nancy Rubins, Jaime Garza, Landmarks

Interestingly, the sculpture goes more than 30 feet into the ground, which, obviously, helps stabilize the sprawling sculpture.

In this particular sculpture, Garza needed to demonstrate that the sculpture was sound, so rather than doing load testing (which would have taken too long), they did “finite element models” to demonstrate the structural integrity.

SHSU, UT, University of Texas, Sam Houston State University, LEAP Center, Center for Law Engagement And Politics, Nancy Rubins, Jaime Garza, Landmarks

In the end, the structure is sound, as this photo (my favorite!), attests…

SHSU, UT, University of Texas, Sam Houston State University, LEAP Center, Center for Law Engagement And Politics, Nancy Rubins, Jaime Garza, Landmarks

…and these young folks seem to have confidence in it.

SHSU, UT, University of Texas, Sam Houston State University, LEAP Center, Center for Law Engagement And Politics, Nancy Rubins, Jaime Garza, Landmarks

In closing, Rubins noted that her “team is super proud of the quality and safety of the work.”  And after five years, there “have not been any issues” (although she knocked on wood as she said that…), and she predicted that it would last at least 40 years.  We hope so.

SHSU, UT, University of Texas, Sam Houston State University, LEAP Center, Center for Law Engagement And Politics, Nancy Rubins, Jaime Garza, Landmarks

 

 

 

 

 

 

Author mikeyawnPosted on June 25, 2020June 25, 2020Format AsideCategories Art, Civic EngagementTags Center for Law Engagement And Politics, Jaime Garza, Landmarks, LEAP Center, Nancy Rubins, Sam Houston State University, SHSU, University of Texas, UT1 Comment on Artistic Landmarks: Nancy Rubins’ “Monochrome”

Ambassador Vecchio Talks Venezuela

Although it was our thirteenth event in thirteen days, the LEAP Ambassadors were ecstatic to have the opportunity to – once again – spend an evening with the World Affairs Council. This time, it was hosted at the Junior League of Houston’s headquarters. The venue itself was beautiful. Upon opening the heavy wooden front doors, you face a grand ballroom with crystal chandeliers and fabric-cushioned walls. This is the room where Ambassador Carlos Vecchio, the featured guest, would be speaking, moderated by our friend Ronan O’Malley. It’s quite rare that we attend an event centered around law, politics, and the field of criminal justice, but that is precisely what the evening held for us.

SHSU, Sam Houston State University, LEAP Center, Center for Law Engagement And Politics, LEAP Ambassadors, World Affairs Council of Greater Houston, Ambassador Carlos Vecchio, Venezuela

Ambassador Vecchio began by recounting his upbringing. He grew up in a small town in Monagas, Venezuela with his mother, a schoolteacher, and his father, a respected politician.

SHSU, Sam Houston State University, LEAP Center, Center for Law Engagement And Politics, LEAP Ambassadors, World Affairs Council of Greater Houston, Ambassador Carlos Vecchio, Venezuela
SHSU, Sam Houston State University, LEAP Center, Center for Law Engagement And Politics, LEAP Ambassadors, World Affairs Council of Greater Houston, Ambassador Carlos Vecchio, Venezuela
SHSU, Sam Houston State University, LEAP Center, Center for Law Engagement And Politics, LEAP Ambassadors, World Affairs Council of Greater Houston, Ambassador Carlos Vecchio, Venezuela
SHSU, Sam Houston State University, LEAP Center, Center for Law Engagement And Politics, LEAP Ambassadors, World Affairs Council of Greater Houston, Ambassador Carlos Vecchio, Venezuela
SHSU, Sam Houston State University, LEAP Center, Center for Law Engagement And Politics, LEAP Ambassadors, World Affairs Council of Greater Houston, Ambassador Carlos Vecchio, Venezuela
SHSU, Sam Houston State University, LEAP Center, Center for Law Engagement And Politics, LEAP Ambassadors, World Affairs Council of Greater Houston, Ambassador Carlos Vecchio, Venezuela

The town’s children were taught by one person, Carlos’s mother, at a school named after Abraham Lincoln. Vecchio sited his interest in the namesake of his school as being the first to fascinate him in regard to law and the United States.

SHSU, Sam Houston State University, LEAP Center, Center for Law Engagement And Politics, LEAP Ambassadors, World Affairs Council of Greater Houston, Ambassador Carlos Vecchio, Venezuela
SHSU, Sam Houston State University, LEAP Center, Center for Law Engagement And Politics, LEAP Ambassadors, World Affairs Council of Greater Houston, Ambassador Carlos Vecchio, Venezuela
SHSU, Sam Houston State University, LEAP Center, Center for Law Engagement And Politics, LEAP Ambassadors, World Affairs Council of Greater Houston, Ambassador Carlos Vecchio, Venezuela
SHSU, Sam Houston State University, LEAP Center, Center for Law Engagement And Politics, LEAP Ambassadors, World Affairs Council of Greater Houston, Ambassador Carlos Vecchio, Venezuela
SHSU, Sam Houston State University, LEAP Center, Center for Law Engagement And Politics, LEAP Ambassadors, World Affairs Council of Greater Houston, Ambassador Carlos Vecchio, Venezuela
SHSU, Sam Houston State University, LEAP Center, Center for Law Engagement And Politics, LEAP Ambassadors, World Affairs Council of Greater Houston, Ambassador Carlos Vecchio, Venezuela

After obtaining his law degree in Venezuela, he completed postgraduate studies in law at Harvard University and Georgetown, the former of which being under the Fulbright Program. Once back in Venezuela, Vecchio said, he landed a job as a tax manager for ExxonMobil. Not too long after, Chavéz expropriated ExxonMobil’s assets in Venezuela. Rather than losing his job, Vecchio was offered a job by his boss in Qatar which included a pay raise, a new car, and a furnished apartment. Rather than taking the promotion, he pursued politics with the vested interest of opposing the corrupt administration of Hugo Chavéz.

SHSU, Sam Houston State University, LEAP Center, Center for Law Engagement And Politics, LEAP Ambassadors, World Affairs Council of Greater Houston, Ambassador Carlos Vecchio, Venezuela
SHSU, Sam Houston State University, LEAP Center, Center for Law Engagement And Politics, LEAP Ambassadors, World Affairs Council of Greater Houston, Ambassador Carlos Vecchio, Venezuela
SHSU, Sam Houston State University, LEAP Center, Center for Law Engagement And Politics, LEAP Ambassadors, World Affairs Council of Greater Houston, Ambassador Carlos Vecchio, Venezuela

The time came, however, when Vecchio had to leave Venezuela and seek asylum somewhere else. Despite helping to establish the Popular Will party, his notoriety had gotten the attention of Maduro, and his family’s lives were now in danger. He told us that leaving his homeland was the toughest decision he ever had to make. Especially due to the fact that his wife was 8 months pregnant upon entering the United States.

Today, the Popular Will consists of the majority opposition against Maduro. Ambassador Vecchio claims that Venezuela will be the first country in the world to overthrow a regime with a united opposition. Although the road ahead is daunting, he is confident that Venezuela’s democracy will return with the help of international support.

SHSU, Sam Houston State University, LEAP Center, Center for Law Engagement And Politics, LEAP Ambassadors, World Affairs Council of Greater Houston, Ambassador Carlos Vecchio, Venezuela

After the talk, we lost all hope of getting a picture with Vecchio since he had to do a tv interview. Thinking of alternatives, we took to the stage and snapped a few photos.

SHSU, Sam Houston State University, LEAP Center, Center for Law Engagement And Politics, LEAP Ambassadors, World Affairs Council of Greater Houston, Ambassador Carlos Vecchio, Venezuela

As we were heading out the doors, Maryanne Maldonado, the CEO of World Affairs Council of Greater Houston, stopped us. We were confused at first, but then she told us to line up quickly for a photo with the ambassador. Taken aback by her kindness, we arranged ourselves in record time. Just then, Vecchio approached us, shook our hands, and posed for a photo with us. It was a surprise to be sure, but a welcome one.

SHSU, Sam Houston State University, LEAP Center, Center for Law Engagement And Politics, LEAP Ambassadors, World Affairs Council of Greater Houston, Ambassador Carlos Vecchio, Venezuela

_____________________

By this time, our stomachs were angry with us. We took it as a sign that dinner was in order. We settled on “Sabor Venezolano,” a Venezuelan food truck located in the outskirts of Downtown Houston. Upon arriving, the man inside the truck, seeing as we were all dressed up in suits, directed us to their restaurant location so that we wouldn’t have to eat sitting on the curb of the gas station the truck was located near.

Pleased with his kindness, we drove around the block to their brick-and-mortar location off of Westheimer. Inside, there were frames hanging on all the walls with photos of famous baseball players encased in them. Positioned at the back near the register was a counter full of chopped vegetables and proteins somewhat resembling a buffet. Our food was prepared in full display behind the counter and was served hot and fresh. Around the table, there were empanadas, tacos, burritos, and arepas – a flat, unleavened pastry stuffed (in this case) with chicken and chorizo.

Sabor Venezuela, LEAP Center,
Sabor Venezuela, LEAP Center,
Sabor Venezuela, LEAP Center,

We were impressed not only by how quickly our food was prepared, but also by the fridge stocked full of sauces to complement our meals. There was a variety, but the salsa rosado was everyone’s favorite. For dessert, we ordered Nutella tequeños. Although we had doubts that the fried rolled pastries full of Nutella were authentically Venezuelan, the flavor soon dissipated any superficial suspicions. All in all, we had a great night full of enriching dialogue and delicious food.

Author mikeyawnPosted on March 11, 2020Format AsideCategories Civic Engagement, Food, PoliticsTags Ambassador Carlos Vecchio, Center for Law Engagement And Politics, LEAP Ambassadors, LEAP Center, Sabor Venezuela, Sam Houston State University, SHSU, Venezuela, World Affairs Council of Greater HoustonLeave a comment on Ambassador Vecchio Talks Venezuela

The Grand Canyon’s 100th Birthday as a National Park, With Mark Burns

By Sawyer Massie

Over the past few years, the LEAP Ambassadors have been working on a documentary film project on photographer Mark Burns.  The project has brought us many opportunities, such as visiting National Parks, but also learning about photography and developing a friendship with Mr. Burns.  Last week, we had a chance to develop that further by attending (and filming) his presentation at the Bush Presidential Library, where he was featured in an “Issues Forum” on photography and the Grand Canyon.

The event started with a brief introduction of Burns by Warren Finch (Director of the Bush Library)…

SHSU, LEAP Center, LEAP Ambassadors, Mark Burns, Photography, George Bush Presidential Library, Grand Canyon, Warren Finch

 

…before Burns took the stage.

SHSU, LEAP Center, LEAP Ambassadors, Mark Burns, Photography, George Bush Presidential Library, Grand Canyon

He  led a comfortable and informal talk, showcasing the photos he took of the Grand Canyon.

SHSU, LEAP Center, LEAP Ambassadors, Mark Burns, Photography, George Bush Presidential Library, Grand Canyon

He began by providing insight on his intuitions regarding the Grand Canyon. He recalled a day of taking photos in the canyon and overhearing a father tell his daughter that the canyon is the result of what the Colorado River has done over thousands of years. He remembers thinking, “it’s not what is did, it’s what it is doing right now,” underscoring the fact that the Colorado continues to work on the western soil. Then, he detailed the thought and stories behind some of his favorite photos. My favorite story was the one he told about when he took his famous photo of Horseshoe Bend.

SHSU, LEAP Center, LEAP Ambassadors, Mark Burns, Photography, George Bush Presidential Library, Grand Canyon

The steepness of the cliff overlooking the Colorado River made it impossible to obtain a photo of the entire landscape. To compensate, Burns laid prone and hung his camera along with both of his arms over the cliff in order to take the picture. Luckily, the end result was worth it.

Burns has a precise approach to his photography, doing heavy front-loaded research prior to traveling to his destination.  He can provide a strong estimate of cloud cover, while knowing exactly where the sun or moon will be rising and at what time.

SHSU, LEAP Center, LEAP Ambassadors, Mark Burns, Photography, George Bush Presidential Library, Grand Canyon

This is prevalent in photos such as “Winter Solstice Moon” and “Wotan’s Throne Sunset,” both of which were timed to showcase the best of the Canyon.

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After the talk, the audience filed into the main lobby for snacks and drinks. The Ambassadors took this time to tour the exhibit and quickly run through the museum since some of us had never seen all of it.

SHSU, LEAP Center, LEAP Ambassadors, Mark Burns, Photography, George Bush Presidential Library, Grand Canyon

For about an hour, we indulged in art and history through presidencies and time.

SHSU, LEAP Center, LEAP Ambassadors, Mark Burns, Photography, George Bush Presidential Library, Grand Canyon

When the time came for us to leave, we felt enriched with new knowledge.

SHSU, LEAP Center, LEAP Ambassadors, Mark Burns, Photography, George Bush Presidential Library, Grand Canyon

 

Author mikeyawnPosted on April 30, 2019April 30, 2019Format AsideCategories Art, Civic EngagementTags Bush Presidential Library, Center for Law Engagement And Politics, LEAP Ambassadors, LEAP Center, Mark Burns, Photography, Sam Houston State University, SHSULeave a comment on The Grand Canyon’s 100th Birthday as a National Park, With Mark Burns

The Politics and Art of Austin, Texas: Day Two of the Texas Tribune Festival

Gender, Power, and Leadership 

Our first stop of the day was The Omni Hotel to attend the “Gender, Power and Leadership” panel with Former State Senator Wendy Davis, Texas Supreme Court Justice Eva Guzman, Baylor University President Linda Livingstone, and State Representative Senfronia Thompson.

The panel was held in a cool room called the Capital Factory filled with colorful sculptures and a few giant bean bag chairs in one corner!  The crowd applauded as the four prestigious women walked out and were seated.

SHSU, Sam Houston State University, LEAP Center, LEAP Ambassadors, Center for Law Engagement And Politics, Austin Texas, ATX, Texas Tribune Festival, Wendy Davis, Representative Senfronia Thompson, Justice Eva Guzman

Although the panel was moderated, Wendy Davis got the lion’s share of the speaking time, at times seeming to recreate her famous 2013 filibuster on the Senate floor.  Representative Thompson was also outspoken, although less voluble, and Justice Guzman and President Livingstone were more reserved.

SHSU, Sam Houston State University, LEAP Center, LEAP Ambassadors, Center for Law Engagement And Politics, Austin Texas, ATX, Texas Tribune Festival, Wendy Davis, Representative Senfronia Thompson, Justice Eva Guzman

​The four panelists were very engaging. They discussed various topics such as sexual harassment, the treatment of women in the workplace, and other hot topics (such as the Kavanaugh hearings).

SHSU, Sam Houston State University, LEAP Center, LEAP Ambassadors, Center for Law Engagement And Politics, Austin Texas, ATX, Texas Tribune Festival, Wendy Davis, Representative Senfronia Thompson, Justice Eva Guzman, Wendy Davis, Senfronia Thompson, Eva Guzman

The audience had the opportunity to ask the panelists a few questions, and then after the panel was finished we had the pleasure of a very brief meeting with Representative Thompson.

SHSU, Sam Houston State University, LEAP Center, LEAP Ambassadors, Center for Law Engagement And Politics, Austin Texas, ATX, Texas Tribune Festival, Wendy Davis, Representative Senfronia Thompson, Justice Eva Guzman

Two of our students even had the opportunity to meet Justice Eva Guzman, which was a special treat, since many of our students had a chance to meet her when she came to SHSU in 2017.

Lunch with Emily Johnson – Ilexus Williams

After being empowered by the phenomenal women at the Gender, Power, and Leadership panel, the LEAP students headed to The Clay Pit, which is a contemporary Indian restaurant located in downtown Austin.  For many of the students, it was our first encounter with Indian food.

When we arrived, Emily Johnson, a former LEAP Ambassador joined us for lunch. Mrs. Johnson currently works for the Texas Sunset Advisory Commission as a Policy Analyst. The Texas Sunset Advisory Commission works to assess the extent to which an agency is needed, is working effectively, and is efficiently utilizing its resources.

Mrs. Johnson expressed that the biggest challenge of her job is working with the legislature. As a policy analyst, it is not Mrs. Johnson’s job to take a side of a position. She must be nonpartisan and be an honest broker.

As we enjoyed chatting with her, we also enjoyed Naan, a traditional Indian flatbread which the restaurant had stuffed with different fillings. These fillings included garlic and herb, three cheese, and jalapeno and cream cheese.

SHSU, Sam Houston State University, LEAP Center, LEAP Ambassadors, Center for Law Engagement And Politics, Austin Texas, ATX, Texas Tribune Festival, The Clay Pit

It was common consensus that the jalapeno cream cheese was the favorite at the table. Most of us decided to grab our food from the lunch buffet, but a few opted to order dishes from the menu.

SHSU, Sam Houston State University, LEAP Center, LEAP Ambassadors, Center for Law Engagement And Politics, Austin Texas, ATX, Texas Tribune Festival, The Clay Pit

While we sat enjoying our Indian cuisine, the prospective Austin interns were able to receive valuable advice from Mrs. Johnson about the lessons that she learned during her time as an intern in the Sam Houston Austin Internship Program. She encouraged students who are selected as interns to use every opportunity available in their office to learn because “knowledge is power.” She urged us to use any free time to attend committee meetings, and she stressed the importance of asking questions. After saying farewell to Mrs. Johnson we parted ways and headed out to a suite of art galleries in East Austin.

Daniel Arredondo’s Art Studio – Jezel Luna

Full of delicious Indian food, we made our way to one of Austin’s many local art studios where we had the pleasure of meeting Daniel Arredondo, a passionate, cheerful, and talented local artist.

SHSU, Sam Houston State University, LEAP Center, LEAP Ambassadors, Center for Law Engagement And Politics, Austin Texas, ATX, Texas Tribune Festival, Daniel Arredondo

His small studio is housed in the same building as the Flatbed Gallery. He introduced himself and thoroughly explained many of the techniques he uses and how they create different effects that really make his paintings come alive.

https://flatbedpress.com/

Personally, one of my favorites was a painting that was made in loving memory of his father-in-law who recently passed away. I could feel the passion and love being expressed in the work, and I was able to make my own connection with it.   He believes that the picture should have two names, the one that the artist gives it and the other for the client to give it. Before we left, Mr Arredondo gave us each a heartfelt gift to remember him by, and our professor bought several of his pieces.

SHSU, Sam Houston State University, LEAP Center, LEAP Ambassadors, Center for Law Engagement And Politics, Austin Texas, ATX, Texas Tribune Festival, Daniel Arredondo

We thanked him profusely and meandered around the rest of the galleries seeing the work of many other different artists.

SHSU, Sam Houston State University, LEAP Center, LEAP Ambassadors, Center for Law Engagement And Politics, Austin Texas, ATX, Texas Tribune Festival, Flatbed Press

Their works, like Mr. Arredondos’ left us captivated and with a higher level of respect for their talent in making something special from nothing.

SHSU, Sam Houston State University, LEAP Center, LEAP Ambassadors, Center for Law Engagement And Politics, Austin Texas, ATX, Texas Tribune Festival, Flatbed Press

Education Reform That Makes the Grade – Elena Castillo

As the panel started we could sense the tension building as the education reform discussion progressed, and we soon realized we had the front row for the cat show!  The laughter of the crowd, the different opinions of the panel, and the catty comments added to the intensity of the panel.

Each panelist was given the opportunity to express their opinion on why they believe public schools are or are not working. Disagreements were made on public schools versus charter schools, and quality and equality for all children’s education was questioned and debated. The biggest point that was brought up was that families do not have the ability to pick the “right school” for their children, and what our education system might look like if they did.

Flash back to “White only days,” the days when schools were segregated by the color of your skin. This is a reality that was thought to have been left behind, but today we heard different from Robert Enlow, President and CEO of EdChoice. In the panel for Education Reform we heard his thoughts on how public schools still seem to be segregated, if not by law, then at least by fact. We heard about the different early college programs in high schools in Dallas Fort Worth Metroplex from panelist Todd Williams. In this panel, tensions were high between State Representative Gina Hinojosa and Co-founder of Steinhouser Strategies, Randan Steinauser. They disagreed on whether charter schools should be allowed to disqualify certain students to attend their schools and whether or not that made them a “public” school. The stakes for better education are high, but whether education reformers will ever begin to make strides forward for better education is the question we are left asking.

Affairs of State: The US And its World Relations

One of most timely and intriguing panels involved three ambassadors: Ryan Crocker (who was Ambassador to six different countries, and who was awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom for his service); Wendy Sherman (a social worker, founding director of Fannie Mae, and high-ranking official in the Department of State under President Obama); and Bill Richardson (former Governor of New Mexico, Secretary of Energy, and Ambassador to the UN).

SHSU, Sam Houston State University, LEAP Center, LEAP Ambassadors, Center for Law Engagement And Politics, Austin Texas, ATX, Texas Tribune Festival, Ambassador Ryan Crocker, Secretary Bill Richardson, Wendy Sherman

Sherman proved the most partisan of the bunch, but all of the diplomats expressed concern over the State Department under President Trump.  Crocker was the most balanced and insightful, although not without his own zingers.  When asked whether President Trump “pulled the rug out from under Secretary Tillerson,” for example, he said: “Yes. We all cheered when it happened. We only wished he would have pulled it out from under him when he was at the top of the stairs.”

Sherman, who sometimes drifted into comments about Brett Kavanaugh, was also critical of Tillerson, noting that his engineering background did not help him with his diplomatic mission: “He thought he could check boxes to achieve a desired end, without putting in the necessary personal relationships.”

SHSU, Sam Houston State University, LEAP Center, LEAP Ambassadors, Center for Law Engagement And Politics, Austin Texas, ATX, Texas Tribune Festival, Ambassador Ryan Crocker, Secretary Bill Richardson, Wendy Sherman

Richardson, whose experience is broader than the other two panelists, had the least to say, but he did share an amusing if alarming story of how he got his job as Secretary of Energy.  President Clinton called him and said, “Bill, I need you to be Secretary of Energy.”  Richardson replied, “But I don’t know much about Energy policy,” to which Clinton replied, “That’s okay.  You’re Hispanic, and I need another Hispanic in the Cabinet.”

Ambassador Crocker ended on a wise but depressing note, suggesting that while nothing the Trump team has done is “irrevocable,” “it will take a long time to get back to where we should be.”  Crocker mentioned the huge personnel cuts in State Department, which largely slashed the non-political career diplomats who serve both parties.  He also pointed out that some of the negative changes, morale problems, and weakening of the State Department began under the Obama administration, when little or no action was taken to developments in the Middle East (particularly in Syria and Pakistan)–a point also mentioned in Bob Woodward’s “Fear.”

SHSU, Sam Houston State University, LEAP Center, LEAP Ambassadors, Center for Law Engagement And Politics, Austin Texas, ATX, Texas Tribune Festival, Ambassador Ryan Crocker, Secretary Bill Richardson, Wendy Sherman

As might be expected, the panel prompted many audience members to ask questions, no doubt spurred by the importance of the US’s changing role in the world.

Austin Segway Tour 

After a full day at Texas Tribune Festival panels and Daniel Arredondo’s art gallery, we found ourselves at Nation Tours right in front of the capitol building. It was 5pm, and time for some fun of the two-wheeled kind!

SHSU, Sam Houston State University, LEAP Center, LEAP Ambassadors, Center for Law Engagement And Politics, Austin Texas, ATX, Segway Tours

After signing liability waivers and receiving a rather brief tutorial which covered how to turn, stop, and park, we all hopped on our Segways…

Segway_5_Monica_Web
SHSU, Sam Houston State University, LEAP Center, LEAP Ambassadors, Center for Law Engagement And Politics, Austin Texas, ATX, Segway Tours
SHSU, Sam Houston State University, LEAP Center, LEAP Ambassadors, Center for Law Engagement And Politics, Austin Texas, ATX, Segway Tours
SHSU, Sam Houston State University, LEAP Center, LEAP Ambassadors, Center for Law Engagement And Politics, Austin Texas, ATX, Segway Tours
SHSU, Sam Houston State University, LEAP Center, LEAP Ambassadors, Center for Law Engagement And Politics, Austin Texas, ATX, Segway Tours

…and were zooming around the city. Our tour guide Robbie took us through the capitol grounds and the surrounding downtown area.

SHSU, Sam Houston State University, LEAP Center, LEAP Ambassadors, Center for Law Engagement And Politics, Austin Texas, ATX, Segway Tours
SHSU, Sam Houston State University, LEAP Center, LEAP Ambassadors, Center for Law Engagement And Politics, Austin Texas, ATX, Segway Tours
SHSU, Sam Houston State University, LEAP Center, LEAP Ambassadors, Center for Law Engagement And Politics, Austin Texas, ATX, Segway Tours
SHSU, Sam Houston State University, LEAP Center, LEAP Ambassadors, Center for Law Engagement And Politics, Austin Texas, ATX, Segway Tours
SHSU, Sam Houston State University, LEAP Center, LEAP Ambassadors, Center for Law Engagement And Politics, Austin Texas, ATX, Segway Tours
SHSU, Sam Houston State University, LEAP Center, LEAP Ambassadors, Center for Law Engagement And Politics, Austin Texas, ATX, Segway Tours
SHSU, Sam Houston State University, LEAP Center, LEAP Ambassadors, Center for Law Engagement And Politics, Austin Texas, ATX, Segway Tours
SHSU, Sam Houston State University, LEAP Center, LEAP Ambassadors, Center for Law Engagement And Politics, Austin Texas, ATX, Segway Tours
SHSU, Sam Houston State University, LEAP Center, LEAP Ambassadors, Center for Law Engagement And Politics, Austin Texas, ATX, Segway Tours

We found out that Segways are street legal when Robbie nonchalantly took off into traffic and then motioned for us to follow.

SHSU, Sam Houston State University, LEAP Center, LEAP Ambassadors, Center for Law Engagement And Politics, Austin Texas, ATX, Segway Tours
SHSU, Sam Houston State University, LEAP Center, LEAP Ambassadors, Center for Law Engagement And Politics, Austin Texas, ATX, Segway Tours
SHSU, Sam Houston State University, LEAP Center, LEAP Ambassadors, Center for Law Engagement And Politics, Austin Texas, ATX, Segway Tours
SHSU, Sam Houston State University, LEAP Center, LEAP Ambassadors, Center for Law Engagement And Politics, Austin Texas, ATX, Segway Tours
SHSU, Sam Houston State University, LEAP Center, LEAP Ambassadors, Center for Law Engagement And Politics, Austin Texas, ATX, Segway Tours

We managed to avoid any collisions with cars, and had a lot of fun…

SHSU, Sam Houston State University, LEAP Center, LEAP Ambassadors, Center for Law Engagement And Politics, Austin Texas, ATX, Segway Tours

…although at least one Ambassador had a fall and another had a Segway with a mind of its own!

We also learned a few things from our tour guide Robbie along the way. The capitol building wasn’t always the enormous building that it was.

SHSU, Sam Houston State University, LEAP Center, LEAP Ambassadors, Center for Law Engagement And Politics, Austin Texas, ATX, Segway Tours

The first was originally about the size of a corner store! We also passed the statue of Angelina Eberly, and learned that without her, Austin might not be our state capital today. In 1842 when Sam Houston sent troops to remove Texas’s archives so that a new state capital could be established elsewhere, Eberly fired a cannonball and alerted the town that the theft was occurring. Robbie also took us by the Austin City Library, which looks nothing like a library at all. We learned from him that it even has a coffee shop and a bar inside.

Our last stop of the tour was right in front of the governor’s mansion, which we learned was partially destroyed in an arson fire in 2008 when a hooded man walked up to the front door and threw a Molotov cocktail at it.

SHSU, Sam Houston State University, LEAP Center, LEAP Ambassadors, Center for Law Engagement And Politics, Austin Texas, ATX, Segway Tours

We also made a quick stop by the Texas Main Street Office.  As fans of (and regular volunteers for) Huntsville Main Street, we were happy to see where the program began.

SHSU, Sam Houston State University, LEAP Center, LEAP Ambassadors, Center for Law Engagement And Politics, Austin Texas, ATX, Segway Tours, Texas Main Street

The nice weather that had held up for us during our tour began to falter, and we parked our borrowed Segways and headed home after learning more about our state’s capital.​

SHSU, Sam Houston State University, LEAP Center, LEAP Ambassadors, Center for Law Engagement And Politics, Austin Texas, ATX, Segway Tours

Author mikeyawnPosted on October 4, 2018October 4, 2018Format AsideCategories Art, Civic Engagement, Food, Fun, Politics, TravelTags ATX, Austin Texas, Center for Law Engagement And Politics, LEAP Ambassadors, LEAP Center, Sam Houston State University, Segway Tours, SHSULeave a comment on The Politics and Art of Austin, Texas: Day Two of the Texas Tribune Festival

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