Dora G. Alcala, a member of the Texas State University System Board of Regents, gave a special presentation Friday afternoon as part of the Grassroots speaker series at Sam Houston State University.
As she addressed the audience in the Olsen Auditorium, which more than filled the available seating, Alcala discussed the merit of higher education, family values and work ethic.
“It’s important to do the things you want to do when you want to do them,” she said. “Enjoy your life, enjoy yourself and concentrate on where you want to go.”
Alcala served two terms as mayor of Del Rio and has received several state awards during her career.
She was appointed to the board in July 2004 by Gov. Rick Perry.
“We on the board always want to see our students getting a very good education,” she said. “I know that’s happening here because of the university’s enrollment.”
In the short term, Alcala said the board hopes to maintain the best facilities possible at SHSU.
“We want to make sure the students have the best facilities and a good learning environment,” she said. “I’d like to see them have a new music building, because we have a lot of music makers and they deserve the best facilities.”
Alcala said speaking to the students was a wonderful experience unlike other presentations she has made in the past.
“When I looked at their faces I could see that they were eager to hear more,” she said. “Speaking to students is very important because we want to leave a good impression.
“It gives you a wonderful feeling and a sense of accomplishment looking at those young faces.”
According to Dr. Bernice Strauss of the SAM Center, the Grassroots series brings minority leaders from all over the state to address students.
“We’ve sponsored this series for about four years now,” she said. “The speakers talk about challenges, success and their perspectives on leadership.
“We’ve had all kinds of people speak who were committed to making a difference, and students generally find it exciting, insightful and informative.”
Strauss said the next presentation will be held on Oct. 24.
For more information, contact Strauss at (936) 294-4455.
Local News
Regent: Best facilities possible wanted for SHSU
- Local News
-
-
Colorful celebration back for 2nd Latin Arts Festival
All things Latin will be discussed, learned and experienced and during the second annual Huntsville Latin American Arts Festival.
-
City weighs development corporation
Work to set up a $800,000 a year nonprofit economic development corporation tasked with bringing new business to Huntsville will be “a test case” for the community’s trust in the newly elected Huntsville City Council, one of its members warned Tuesday.
-
City hosts class on oil and gas laws
Oil and gas drilling provides a needed service, but the waste is cause for concern in cities across America. Even in those cities where drilling isn't taking place, there are still spills and leaks from cleanup trucks that can cause hazards to the environment, as well as other motorists.
-
New Waverly first graders receive lesson on proper dental hygiene
First graders at New Waverly Elementary found out how to take care of their teeth Tuesday morning during an assembly in the school’s cafeteria.
- Vandals strike Elkins Lake
-
Highway 19 ramps are closing
- SHSU working to prevent pest’s impact on sugarcane
- SHSU hosts Indian Country jail officials
-
Black History Scholarship Musical
-
Tourism numbers up for Walker County
From commercials to television shows and even a web video, Walker County was in the spotlight in 2011.
The new year is shaping up to be successful for tourism as well, according to Kimm Thomas, director of tourism and cultural services for the city of Huntsville. - More Local News Headlines
-
Worker Tells 911: Powell 'exploded the House'
Triple Win: Santorum Takes MN, MO, CO
Injured Marine Inspired by Homecoming
No Rape Charges Against Son of NYPD Commissioner
Romney Congratulates Santorum, Focuses on Obama
Paul Says Results Help Him Rack Up Delegates
Egypt's Ruling Generals Play Risky Game With US
Former Komen Exec Defends Funding Cut
Skip the Coffee Cup and Inhale Your Caffeine Fix
Calif. Gay Marriage Ban Ruled Unconstitutional
Jury Selection for Ex-UVa Athlete Enters 2nd Day
Raw Video: Giants Celebrate Another Super Bowl
Cab Driver Helps Wis. Family Escape House Fire
Greek Leaders Seek Deal As Bankruptcy Looms
Bernanke: Recovery Depends on Consumer Spending
Staff Removed at LA School During Abuse Probe
Eastwood in Super Bowl Ad 'Compassionate'
Stranded Fishermen Rescued From Bay of Green Bay
Analyst: Outside Troops Won't Intervene in Syria
Police: Father Planned Deadly Fire for Some Time
