The Texas Legislative Internship Program - Senate

The Texas Legislative Internship Program
Class of 2011

The Texas Legislative
Internship Program
Class of 2011
Sponsored by Senator Rodney Ellis
and the Mickey Leland Center
on World Hunger and Peace
at Texas Southern University

The Texas Legislative
Internship Program
The Texas Legislative Internship Program (TLIP) was created in 1990 to provide
real world experience to young civic-minded students. Sponsored by State Senator
Rodney Ellis and administered by the Mickey Leland Center on World Hunger
and Peace at Texas Southern University, TLIP gives undergraduate and graduate
students the opportunity to serve as interns in the Texas Legislature, in state agencies,
and in local government. Since its inception, over 400 interns have graduated
from the program.
Students receive academic credit hours for participating in TLIP, which combines
academic study and research with supervised practical training. A TLIP internship
lasts for one academic semester and provides students the opportunity to experience
the political process firsthand. Senator Ellis serves as advisor to the interns, while
his office assists in coordinating on-site activities.
Undergraduate and graduate students interested in the political process and in the
kind of humanitarian service exemplified by the late Congressman Mickey Leland
are encouraged to apply for the internship.
3

The Legacy of George Thomas
“Mickey” Leland
George Thomas “Mickey” Leland was born November
27, 1944, in Lubbock, Texas. At an early age, he moved
with his family to the Fifth Ward in Houston, Texas. As a
student, Mickey showed early promise. Mickey graduated
in the top 10% of his class in 1964 from Phyllis Wheatley
High School in Houston. Mickey attended Texas Southern
University in the late 60s, was a vocal leader of the local
civil rights movement, and brought national civil rights leaders to Houston. He graduated
from TSU’s School of Pharmacy in 1970 with a Bachelor of Science in Pharmacy
and served as an Instructor of Clinical Pharmacy at his alma mater from 1970–71.
In 1972, Mickey Leland was elected to the Texas State Legislature from Houston. He
served in the Texas House of Representatives until 1978 and became famous as the
champion of health care rights for the poor. His work included membership on the
Labor, State Affairs, and Human Resources Committees, the Texas Legislative Council,
and the Subcommittee on Occupational and Industrial Safety.
In 1978, Mickey was elected to the United States Congress from the 18 th Congressional
District in Houston. Mickey’s ability to reach out to others with innovative ideas and
to gain support from unlikely sources was key to his success in effectively addressing
the problems of the poor and minorities. He met with Pope John Paul II about food
aid to Africa and with Fidel Castro about reuniting Cuban families.
In 1983 Mickey married Alison Clark Walton. Mickey fathered three children, Jarrett
David and twins Austin “Mickey” and Cameron George.
In 1988, Mickey was becoming increasingly active in international human rights
and world hunger issues. He worked endlessly to solve the problems of domestic and
international hunger and malnutrition. On August 7, 1989, Leland was leading another
humanitarian mission when a plane carrying Mickey, members of his Congressional
staff, State Department officials, and Ethiopian nationals to a United Nations refugee
camp in Ethiopia crashed in a mountainous region. There were no survivors.
5

Greetings:
I created the Texas Legislative Internship Program
(TLIP) in 1990 to provide opportunities for undergraduate
and graduate students to serve as interns in the Texas
Legislature, in state agencies, and in local government.
Since then, over 400 graduates of the program have made
a difference in their communities through involvement
in public service. The program operates during both the
legislative session and interim, and students are involved
in every facet of the governmental process.
Many of the program’s former participants continue
to work in public service at the federal, state and local levels of government: three
current members of the Texas House of Representatives are TLIP graduates.
I look forward to the 63 members of the Class of 2011 continuing this rich tradition.
Please turn the page to learn more about this year’s students…
Sincerely,
7

The 2011 TLIP Interns
Bernardo Aldape III is a second-year law student
at Thurgood Marshall School of Law where he serves as
President of the Hispanic Law Students Association and
as a student ambassador. He received a Bachelor of Arts
degree in Government from the University of Texas at
Austin. Prior to law school, Mr. Aldape served in the
United States Marine Corps and is a veteran of Operation
Iraqi Freedom II. He is currently interning in the office
of State Representative Veronica Gonzales and would like
to pursue a career in public policy and criminal defense.
Sabrina M. Bannister is a third-year law student
at Southern University Law Center in Baton Rouge, LA.
She graduated Magna Cum Laude with a Criminal Justice
degree from Southern University in New Orleans.
Previously, she interned at the Orleans Parish Civil Court
and the Jefferson Parish District Attorney’s office. Ms.
Bannister is currently interning with the Harris County
Public Defender’s office and looks forward to an exciting
career in public policy or health care.
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Ana Castro is a second-year law student at Thurgood
Marshall School of Law. She received a Bachelor of Arts
degree in Spanish, Political Science and Latin American
Studies from the University of California Los Angeles.
She has previously interned with the District of Columbia
Superior Court Juvenile Division in Washington, D.C.
and the Salvadorean American Leadership Educational
Fund in Los Angeles, CA. Ms. Castro is currently interning
at the Texas Supreme Court and looks forward to an
exciting legal career as a family law or commercial law
attorney.
Ruth Damys is a second-year law student at Thurgood
Marshall School of Law. She obtained her Bachelor of Arts
degree in Political Science from the University of South
Florida in Tampa. She has previously interned at the 20th
Judicial Circuit State Attorney’s Office, Berry, Day & McFee,
and at the Collier County Courthouse—all in Naples, FL.
Ms. Damys also was a Political Analyst for MSNBC’s
“Obama’s America: 2010 and Beyond”. Currently she is
interning as a policy analyst with the Texas Legislative
Study Group. Ms. Damys aspires to practice law and give
back to the community and to her homeland of Haiti.
Cornelius Dupree is currently working toward
completion of an Associate’s degree at Houston
Community College. Mr. Dupree spent 30 years in the
Texas prison system for a crime that he did not commit—
the longest of any individual exonerated in Texas. Upon
his release, he has dedicated himself to making improvements
to the system with the goal of preventing others
from experiencing the injustices he had to endure. Mr.
Dupree is interning in the District Office of State Senator
Rodney Ellis.
10

Jane Ehinmoro is a Criminal Justice major at Stephen
F. Austin State University. She plans on graduating in May
2011 and continuing on to pursue a degree in Law. She
has previously interned at the County Attorney’s Office
in Nacogdoches, Texas and is currently interning with
the Texas Criminal Justice Coalition. Ms. Ehinmoro is
looking forward to a promising legal career as a defense
attorney that focuses on evidence-based best practices
and equal justice for all.
Kenneth Ford is a second-year law student at Thurgood
Marshall School of Law. He received a Bachelor of Arts
degree in Sociology at Bethune-Cookman University in
Daytona Beach, FL. He has previously instructed with
the Houston Bar Association Mock Trial Program and is
the Regional Director of the Frederick Douglass Moot
Court Competition (BLSA). Mr. Ford is currently interning
at the Texas Court of Criminal Appeals and is looking
forward to pursuing a career in appellate litigation.
Chuck J. Franklin, a Dallas native, received a Bachelor
of Arts degree in Political Science from Rice University.
He currently works in the office of State Senator Rodney
Ellis. He has previously interned with Vinson & Elkins,
LLP in Dallas, Texas and with a Houston mayoral campaign
where he focused on collegiate voter outreach. Mr.
Franklin currently is taking graduate courses at Texas
Tech University and has plans to attend law school.
11

Trevin Franklin is a third-year dual degree student
attending both the Thurgood Marshall School of Law and
the Barbara Jordan-Mickey Leland School of Public
Affairs at Texas Southern University. He received his
Bachelor of Arts degree in Political Science from Prairie
View A&M University. He has previously interned with
the City of Houston’s Legal Department and in the district
offices of Congressmen Al Green and Ron Paul. In addition,
he has held various leadership positions on campus
including President of the Government Law Society and
the Student Government Association Senator for the Law
School. Mr. Franklin is currently interning in the office of Lieutenant Governor
David Dewhurst and plans to pursue a career in public service once he completes
his dual degree.
Chelsea M. Frazier received her Bachelor of Arts
degree in Women’s Studies at Barnard College of Columbia
University in New York, NY. A former Columbia
University collegiate athlete, she has also previously
worked for the Columbia University Office of General
Counsel in New York City. Ms. Frazier is presently interning
as a Policy Advisor in the office of Texas State Senator
Rodney Ellis and is anticipating a rewarding professional
career in either education or public service.
12

Maxie Gallardo is a senior at Texas Tech University
and will be graduating in May with a degree in
Management in Information Systems and Managerial
Finance. She previously worked as a Student Supervisor
at TTU IT Help Central and is currently interning with
State Representative Armando Walle. Maxie is looking
forward to attending law school in the Fall 2011 semester
where she hopes to focus on Sports/Entertainment Law.
When she has spare time, Maxie enjoys web page design,
watching college football and hip hop dance.
Nicholas Giles is a third-year law student from
Southern University Law Center in Baton Rouge,
Louisiana. Mr. Giles earned a Bachelors of Arts degree
in Legal Communications with a minor in Business
Administration from Howard University. He also earned
a paralegal certificate from the Center of Advanced Legal
Studies in Houston and worked as a certified paralegal/
legal assistant. Mr. Giles also served with the United States
Coast Guard as a legal intern during the BP Deepwater
Horizon spill in the summer of 2010. Mr. Giles looks
forward to future goals such as one day serving as an
attorney in the Civil Rights Division of the Department of Justice. He is currently
interning in the office of State Representative Sylvester Turner.
13

Alexander Green is a junior at Baylor University
working toward completion of his Bachelor of Arts degree
in History. He has been politically active since a young
age and has ambitions of one day running a political
campaign. Under the TLIP program, Mr. Green is interning
with State Representative Borris L. Miles.
Ben Griggs is a student at Lamar University dual
majoring in French and Political Science. He served four
years in the United States Marine Corps and had a sixmonth
deployment to Iwakuni, Japan. He is currently
interning in the office of State Representative Hubert Vo
and looks forward to pursuing a Masters Degree in Global
Policy Studies at the LBJ School of International Affairs.
Davilin Hamel is a junior Graphic Design major at
Lamar University. She is a member of Alpha Phi Omega
Co-ed Service fraternity, Beta Sigma Phi cultural sorority,
and has worked for two publications at St. Mary’s University,
including The Rattler student newspaper and The Pecan
Grove Review literary magazine. Ms. Hamel is currently
an intern in the office of State Representative Barbara
Mallory Caraway and her experience with photography,
writing, and media has propelled her towards a fascinating
career goal combining mass media and politics.
14

Brittane Hamilton is a junior double majoring in
Political Science and Public Administration at Stephen
F. Austin State University where she plans to complete
the five year program. She is currently interning in the
office of Representative Rene Oliveira. After graduating,
Ms. Hamilton would like to attend the University of
Houston School of Law.
Cole Howard is a graduating senior at Lamar University
in Beaumont, Texas, pursuing a Bachelor of Science degree
in Political Science. Having previously worked in the legal
and IT fields, he now supports the office of State
Representative Roberto R. Alonzo. After graduation, Mr.
Howard plans on attending law school.
Clyde Joseph Jiles was born in Houston, Texas and
is expected to graduate from Morehouse College in May
2011 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Business
Administration with a concentration in Finance. He has
worked for the Defender Network, Texas Children’s
Hospital, and Aclipse Marketing among others. After
graduation he will be pursuing a career in pharmaceuticals
or marketing consulting, but plans on continuing his
education working toward admission to an MBA/JD dual
degree program. Mr. Jiles is currently interning in the
office of State Representative Eric Johnson.
15

Jay Johnson is a second-year law student at Thurgood
Marshall School of Law. He received a Bachelor of Arts
degree in Psychology and a Bachelor of Science degree
in Economics with Finance Applications from Southern
Methodist University in Dallas, TX. He has previously
interned at Human Rights Initiative of North Texas in
Dallas, TX and is the Executive Editor for TMSL Journal
on Gender, Race, & Justice. Mr. Johnson is currently
interning for State Representative Garnet Coleman and
is dedicated to providing dynamic professional legal
services as a public policy or corporate attorney.
Melissa Jones is a senior at Stephen F. Austin State
University in Nacogdoches, Texas. She is double majoring
in Criminal Justice and Public Administration. Ms. Jones
is currently interning in the office of State Representative
Senfronia Thompson and is looking forward to an exciting
career in public policy.
Tonya Jones is a third-year law student at Southern
University Law Center in Baton Rouge, LA. She is currently
affiliated with the Black Law Student Association as mock
trial director and serves as 3L Class Representative. She
graduated from Baylor University with a Bachelor of Arts
degree in Political Science. Upon graduation from law
school, she aspires to return to Texas to practice family law
and start a non-profit organization for young women and
girls in her childhood neighborhood in Houston. Ms. Jones
is interning with the Task Force on Indigent Defense.
16

Katasia Jordan is a second-year graduate student
and master’s candidate in the Department of Community
and Regional Planning within the School of Architecture
at the University of Texas at Austin. She received her
Bachelor of Science degree in Mass Communication at
Tennessee State University in Nashville, TN. She recently
served as a research assistant in the Department of
Diversity and Community Engagement at the University
of Texas and also participated in a study abroad program
in Cape Town, South Africa assessing governance challenges.
Ms. Jordan is currently interning in the office of
State Representative Helen Giddings. She plans to pursue
a career in public policy as a research/policy analyst where she can exercise her
skills in spatial analysis as well as her interest in social justice.
Rachel Kelly is a second-year law student at Thurgood
Marshall School of Law. She is originally from
Birmingham, AL and received her Bachelor of Arts degree
in Journalism with a minor in Political Science from the
University of Alabama. She has previously interned with
the United States Coast Guard legal department in New
Orleans, LA and Pittman, Dutton, Hellums P.C. in
Birmingham, AL. She is currently a judicial intern with
Justice Nathan L. Hecht of the Texas Supreme Court.
When she is not jump-starting her legal career, Rachel
enjoys reading, writing, cooking, and attending University
of Alabama football games.
17

Conor Kenny is currently interning for the Senate
Government Organization Committee. He is a master’s
student at the LBJ School of Public Affairs at the University
of Texas and has undergraduate degrees from Evergreen
State College and Deep Springs College. He previously
worked as a researcher, legislative assistant and editor for
non-profits including the Sunlight Foundation, Center
for Media and Democracy and Public Citizen in
Washington, DC. He is a sixth generation Texan and is
happy to be back home pursuing a career in public policy.
Cheryl Knight-Simpson is a second-year law student
at Thurgood Marshall School of Law. She received a Bachelor
of Science degree in Political Science and Psychology at
Florida State University and a Master of Science Degree in
School Counseling and Marriage and Family Therapy from
Stetson University in Deland, FL. She returned to school
after 20 years as an educator with Seminole County Public
Schools in Sanford, Florida. Mrs. Knight-Simpson is currently
interning at the Supreme Court of Texas for Justice
Dale Wainwright and is looking forward to a fulfilling career
in estates and planning and/or juvenile justice.
Epernay Kyles is a native of Memphis, TN. She is a
graduate of the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
where she received a Bachelor of Arts degree in Public
Policy with a double concentration in Education and
International Policy. Previously, Epernay interned with the
U.S. Department of Commerce in Washington, DC and
was an Assistant Canvass Director for Grassroots Campaigns
in Austin, Texas. She is currently interning in the office of
Senator John Whitmire and looks forward to traveling the
world and having a rewarding career in public service.
18

Sara Lang is a recent graduate of Trinity University,
receiving her Bachelor of Arts degree in Political Science
and Communications. She has previously interned with
the San Antonio Spurs, the San Francisco 49ers, Public
Strategies, Inc., and WOAI Channel 4 News in San
Antonio. Ms. Lang is currently interning in the office of
State Representative Scott Hochberg.
Lisa Mathews is a second-year law student at Thurgood
Marshall School of Law. She received a Bachelor of Arts
degree in Criminal Justice at Sam Houston University in
Huntsville, Texas. Ms. Mathews worked as a legal secretary
for twelve years prior to attending law school. Since
then, she has worked for The Mostyn Law Firm in
Houston, Texas and is currently interning as a Policy
Analyst for the Legislative Study Group. Ms. Mathews’
interests are in governmental and contractual law.
Chetamour L. McKenzie is a third-year honor
student at Southern University Law Center where she serves
on the Moot Court Board and as an Executive Officer of
the Business Law Society. She earned a Bachelor of Arts
degree in Criminal Justice from Dillard University in New
Orleans, LA. She previously worked with the local Clerk
of the Court as a Research Assistant for the Real Estate
Transactions professor. She is currently interning with the
Association of Electric Companies of Texas, Inc. and looks
forward to a challenging career in law and public policy.
19

Victoria Rose Messer is an undergraduate student
at Texas Tech University in Lubbock, Texas. She is currently
pursuing her Bachelor of Arts in Political Science with minors
in History and Legal Studies. She is also an active member
in Alpha Delta Pi Sorority and Texas Tech Presidents Select.
Upon graduation she plans on attending law school and
completing a dual degree program for a Master of Business
Administration. She is currently a legislative intern for
Senator Robert Duncan and is looking forward to continuing
her career as a lawyer and public administrator.
Milagrosa Micha is a graduate student at Texas Southern
University, majoring in Criminal Justice. Upon graduation,
she plans on attending law school. She has previously interned
at the Dewey & Leboeuf LLP law firm in the International
Arbitration and Cross-Border Dispute Resolution office in
Washington, DC. Ms. Micha is currently interning with the
Texas Criminal Justice Coalition. She eventually would like
to pursue a career as a civil rights attorney.
Shalette Mitchell is a second-year law student at Thurgood
Marshall School of Law. She earned a Bachelor of Arts degree
in Political Science from Stephen F. Austin State University.
Ms. Mitchell strives to enhance the situation of others through
her involvement in the Government Law Society and as the
Student Bar Association First Year Class President. Shalette
enjoys volunteering at local homeless shelters and working
with the youth department at her church. Ms. Mitchell is
currently interning in the office of State Representative Yvonne
Davis and looks forward to setting her own path as she pursues
a momentous career in law and public service.
20

Valeria Mirolevich is a second-year law student at
Thurgood Marshall School of Law. She received a Bachelor
of Laws degree at the Pyatigorsk State Technological
University in Russia. She advanced her legal education
by obtaining a Master of Laws from the State University
of New York at Buffalo Law School, New York. Ms.
Mirolevich has previously interned with Honorable
Patrick NeMoyer, Justice of the Supreme Court in Buffalo,
NY, and the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality
in Austin, Texas. Ms. Mirolevich is currently interning
with State Representative Burt Solomons.
Jessie Myles is currently interning in the office of
State Representative Vicki Truitt. She received a Bachelor
of Arts degree in Economics and Journalism from the
University of Texas at Austin. Ms. Myles plans to pursue
a Master of Finance degree at the University of Houston
and hopes to build a career that combines public policy
and business.
21

Felipe Nascimento is a student attending the fourthyear
law course at Pontifícia Universidade Católica in São
Paulo, Brazil. He previously interned with a middle-sized
law firm named Queiroz & Lautenchslager Advogados
and later in the legal department of Barclays Capital
Investment Bank. Mr. Nascimento is currently interning
with Travis County as an Associate in the
Intergovernmental Relations Department. He plans to
use the knowledge and skills obtained during his participation
in TLIP to positively contribute to Brazil’s
development.
Victor Odongo is a third-year International Relations
and Diplomacy student at Maseno University in Kenya.
He serves with the Kisumu District Local Authority Service
committee and volunteers with Children First Organization
(CFO), a registered non-governmental organization in
Kenya supporting orphaned and vulnerable children within
the disenfranchised district of Kisumu and Bondo town.
Mr. Odongo is currently interning at the Texas Criminal
Justice Coalition and looks forward to a fulfilling career in
public service in Kenya and working in promotion of global
cohesion and/or international cooperation.
22
Chinedum U. Okparaeke is currently a second-year
law student at Thurgood Marshall School of Law. He
received a Bachelor of Arts degree in Business
Administration with an Accounting Concentration from
Morehouse College in Atlanta, GA. He previously interned
with the Attorney General of the State of New Jersey and
also worked as a Financial Analyst for AIG Investments
in New York, NY. Mr. Okparaeke is currently interning for
Chief Justice Wallace Jefferson of the Supreme Court of
Texas. After law school, Mr. Okparaeke is looking forward
to a rewarding career in securities or government law.

Kevin Osemene is a second-year Master of Public
Administration student at the Barbara Jordan—Mickey
Leland School of Public Affairs at Texas Southern
University. He received a Bachelor of Science degree in
Interdisciplinary Studies with a focus on Biology from the
University of Houston. He previously worked as a Graduate
Research Assistant at Texas Southern University. In this
position, he conducted research on a myriad of issues such
as the healthcare reform of 2009, Texas legislative redistricting,
innovation in public school education, the history
of Vice-Presidential debates and the efficacy of current
Houston municipal term limits. Mr. Osemene is currently interning in the office of
State Senator Royce West and intends to start law school in the fall.
Ryan Phipps is a junior at Baylor University in Waco,
Texas. For his BA in University Scholars degree, he is
concentrating in Political Science, History, and
Philosophy and is writing an Honors Thesis on the right
to privacy. He was born and raised in Abilene, Texas,
and graduated from Abilene High School as a National
Merit Finalist. He is currently interning in the office of
State Representative Joaquin Castro. Mr. Phipps’ interests
include spending time with family and friends,
watching football, reading, and traveling. Upon graduating
from Baylor he plans to attend law school.
23

Diana Pineros is a junior at Baylor University. She
has previously interned in the community relations and
patient legal rights office at Waco Center for Youth. She
will receive a Bachelor of Arts degree in International
Studies with a minor in Political Science. Ms. Pineros is
currently interning in the office of State Senator Judith
Zaffirini and is looking forward to attending law school
upon graduation and studying International Law.
Edward Pollard is a second-year law student at
Thurgood Marshall School of Law. He received a Bachelor
of Arts degree in Political Science from Morehouse
College, where he graduated with honors. He previously
was the personal intern for Harris County Attorney Vince
Ryan. After graduating from Thurgood Marshall, Mr.
Pollard plans on becoming a trial litigator as well as
pursuing a career in politics. He is interning in the office
of State Representative Dawnna Dukes.
Shakira Pumphrey is a second-year law student at
Southern University Law Center. She received a Bachelor
of Science degree in Sociology from the University of
Central Arkansas and will receive a Bachelor of Arts degree
in Political Science from the University of Arkansas at Little
Rock in 2011. She previously served as a Civil Rights
Investigator with the Arkansas Fair Housing Commission.
Ms. Pumphrey is interning in the office of Speaker of the
House Joe Straus. She looks forward to a promising career
in law and public service.
24

Brittney Quezada is a junior at Baylor University,
studying Political Science and History in the Honors
College. She has previously interned with Houston
Modern Luxury Magazine, Bering & James Art Gallery,
and the Keston Center. Ms. Quezada is currently interning
with State Representative Naomi Gonzalez. She looks
forward to law school and a career in the State Department.
Robin Raasch is a second year law student at Southern
University Law Center in Baton Rouge, La. She earned
an Applied Arts and Sciences Degree from the University
of North Texas. Her interdisciplinary degree focused on
sociology, non-profit management and business. She took
part in the Exxon-Mobil Community Summer Jobs
Program. She graduated Cum Laude, Tau Sigma, Phi
Theta Kappa. Ms. Raasch earned the CALI award for
Contracts, Torts, and Legislative Drafting at SULC. Ms.
Raasch seeks to serve her community and looks forward
to studying poverty and energy law. She is an intern with
Representative Ana Hernandez Luna.
25

Bryce Romero is a senior at Lamar University and
is working toward a Bachelor of Arts degree in Political
Science. He is currently interning in the office of State
Senator Jose Rodriguez.
Luis A. Salguero is a second-year law student at
Thurgood Marshall School of Law. He is the first person in
his family to complete high school, college and attend law
school. He received a Bachelor of Science degree in Political
Science from Texas A&M University. He has previously
interned with the Environmental Division in the office of
Harris County Attorney Vince Ryan. His interests include
traveling to foreign countries and participating in obstacle
course races. Luis is currently interning with State
Representative Carol Alvarado and is looking forward to a
fulfilling legal career as a military or corporate attorney.
Madison Seymore is a junior at Texas Tech University
studying Management and Marketing at the Rawls College
of Business. An active member in scholastic organizations,
Madison belongs to the Society for the Advancement of
Management, the Tech Marketing Association, and the
prelaw program at Texas Tech. Currently, Madison is
serving as an intern in the office of State Representative
John Frullo. She plans to attend the Texas Tech University
School of Law upon graduation.
26

Lisa Sherrod is currently a graduate student working
on her Master of Public Administration degree at the
Barbara Jordan-Mickey Leland School of Public Affairs
at Texas Southern University. She also works as a graduate
assistant at the Barbara Jordan Archives. Prior to her
current position, she spent seven years working as a
legislative assistant for U.S. Representatives Ken Bentsen
and Eddie Bernice Johnson in Washington, D.C. Ms.
Sherrod is currently interning in the office of State
Representative Sylvester Turner and with the Legislative
Black Caucus.
Naomi Showers is a graduate student at Lamar
University, currently studying for her Master of Public
Administration degree. She received a Bachelor of Arts
degree in Political Science from Lamar University. She
previously worked for the Bill White for Texas campaign
in Jefferson County. Ms. Showers is currently interning
in the office of State Representative Ron Reynolds and
has aspirations of opening a Public Relations and
Lobbying Firm.
Stephen Small is a senior at Texas Tech University
in Lubbock, Texas. He is currently pursuing his Bachelor
of Arts degree in Economics, coupled with a minor in
History. After completing his degree at Texas Tech
University, Stephen hopes to continue his education by
attending law school to earn a Juris Doctorate, as well as
a Master of Laws in Taxation.
27

David Sneed received a Bachelor of Arts in Criminal
Justice from Stephen F. Austin State University in 2005.
He then attended East Texas Police Academy and spent
several years in law enforcement. He is now back at
Stephen F. Austin studying Political Science and History.
Mr. Sneed is currently a legislative intern with State
Senator Kel Seliger and hopes to utilize his education and
experience to pursue a career in politics.
Elizabeth Tagle is a third-year law student at Thurgood
Marshall School of Law. She received a Bachelor of Science
degree in Health at Texas A&M University. She also has
a Master of Public Health from the School of Rural Public
Health, Texas A&M Health Science Center. She previously
worked for the National Network of Public Health
Institutes in New Orleans, LA. Ms. Tagle is currently
interning in the office of State Senator Rodney Ellis and
is looking forward to a career in public policy focusing
on health and human services and human rights issues.
Christian A. Taylor is a junior Political Science
major at Howard University in Washington, D.C. A native
Houstonian with a passion for broadening his horizons,
he studied abroad during the Summer of 2010 in
Barcelona, Spain. Currently, Mr. Taylor is interning in
the office of State Representative Jessica Farrar. He
anticipates a May 2012 graduation from Howard, and
upon graduation plans to attend law school to further his
political endeavors.
28

Chasity Tillis is a junior at Stephen F. Austin State
University in Nacogdoches, Texas. She is a Political
Science-Public Administration double major. After
graduation, she would like to attend law school and
eventually start a career in corporate law. Ms. Tillis is
currently interning in the office of State Representative
Marisa Marquez.
Janice Tolbert is a senior undergraduate student at
Baylor University, pursuing a Bachelor of Arts degree in
Political Science with a double minor in Religion and
Rhetoric & Argumentation. She has previously interned
with the United States Congress in Washington, D.C. and
as communications specialist with the Waco Independent
School District Board of Trustees. Ms. Tolbert is currently
interning in the office of State Senator Rodney Ellis and
anticipates an exciting future career as an educator and
advocate for sound educational policies.
Houston Tower is a second-year law student at
Thurgood Marshall School of Law. He received a Bachelor
of Arts degree in Communications from Texas A&M
University at Corpus Christi. He previously has interned
at the Harris County District Attorney’s Office and has
worked in radio, print, and digital advertising and marketing.
Upon graduation, he plans to practice as a
criminal prosecutor and to later participate in shaping
public policy. Mr. Tower is currently interning with
Representative Eddie Lucio III.
29

Anastasia A. Thomas is a fourth-year undergraduate
at Howard University in Washington, D.C.,
majoring in Print/Online Journalismwith a minor in
Political Science. During her undergraduate career, she
has worked as a campus peer minister with the United
Methodist Chaplain, which led her to mission work in
Johannesburg and Capetown, South Africa during the
summer of 2009. She also serves as a member of the
United Methodist Student Movement’s Steering
Committee. Ms. Thomas currently interns for State
Representative Marc Veasey. She would like to pursue a
career in worldwide advocacy.
Sam Thomas is a second-year law student at Thurgood
Marshall School of Law. He received his Bachelor of
Science degree in Biology from Houston Baptist
University. He previously interned as a judicial law clerk
for the Honorable R. Jack Cagle of the Harris County
Civil Court at Law #1. Mr. Thomas is currently interning
with the Office of Court Administration, where he is
involved with complex legal research.
Melody Udoinyion is a law student at Southern
University Law Center in Baton Rouge, LA. She received
her undergraduate degree in Finance and Accounting
from Georgia State University. She is currently interning
with the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality.
As a future lawyer, Ms. Udoinyion plans to pursue a career
in regulatory law as it deals with the environment or
energy, with the ultimate goal of entering public service.
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Brian Waldrup received his Master of Arts of Teaching
in Elementary Education from Xavier University in New
Orleans, LA in December 2010. While at Xavier, he cofounded
The Pilot Foundation, a 501(c)(3) educational
program that focused on computer and technological
advancement for New Orleans’ youths. He received his
Bachelor of Science in Accounting and Business
Administration from Northwestern State University. Mr.
Waldrup is currently interning in the office of State
Representative Alma Allen, focusing on educational
policies and development. Mr. Waldrup is looking forward
to matriculating into a JD/PhD program with the purpose of creating change in the
educational system for minority and disadvantaged youth.
Tumi Wallace is a law student at the University of
Cape Town in South Africa. He received his Bachelor of
Social Science degree in Politics and History at the
University of Cape Town. He has previously interned at
two South African law firms and the legal department of
the Lausanne Congress on World Evangelization. Tumi
hopes to return to South Africa to pursue a career in
international diplomacy and dispute resolution or maritime
trade agreements upon completion of his law degree
and Masters in Maritime Law. Tumi is interning in the
office of State Senator Rodney Ellis.
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Bridgette Williams is a second-year law student at
Thurgood Marshall School of Law. She received a Bachelor
of Arts degree in English from Tuskegee University in
Tuskegee, Alabama. She has previously interned in the
City Attorney’s Office in Port Arthur, Texas and the
Municipal Court in Bessemer, Alabama. Ms. Williams is
currently interning at the Texas Commission of
Environmental Quality in the Environmental Law and
Litigation divisions. She looks forward to a successful
career as a litigator.
Kara Willis is a second-year law student at South Texas
College of Law. She received a Bachelor of Science degree
in Agriculture Economics from Prairie View A&M
University. She has previously interned with the United
States Department of Agriculture in Washington D.C.
and with Judge Al Bennett of the 61st Civil District Court
in Harris County. Ms. Willis is currently interning in the
Harris County Attorney’s Office and is looking forward
to a career in civil litigation. Kara has a passion for public
service and aspires to one day become an elected official
to serve her community.
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Interns through the Years...

Governor Ann Richards meets with the first TLIP class in 1991.
The TLIP class of 1993, photographed with Governor Ann Richards in the Capitol
Extension.
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Governor George Bush visits with the TLIP class of 1995 in the Governor’s
Reception Room.
Lieutenant Governor Bob Bullock meets with Senator Ellis and the TLIP class of
1997 in the Senate Chamber.
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The TLIP class of 1999 meets with Houston Mayor Lee P. Brown.
Lieutenant Governor Bill Ratliff visits with Senator Ellis and the TLIP class of 2001.
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The TLIP class of 2003 photographed with Lieutenant Governor David Dewhurst.
TLIP 2005 participants enjoy meeting Texas Supreme Court Chief Justice Wallace
Jefferson.
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The TLIP Class of 2006 visits with City of Houston Controller Annise Parker.
The TLIP Class of 2008, photographed with Leonard Spearman, Representative
James Clyburn, Representative Eddie Bernice Johnson, Senator Ellis, and Washington
D.C. Interns.
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TLIP 2009 participants at the Texas Supreme Court with Chief Justice Wallace
Jefferson.
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TEXAS LEGISLATIVE
INTERNSHIP PROGRAM
Class of 2011 Directory

TEXAS LEGISLATIVE INTERNSHIP PROGRAM
Class of 2011 Directory
Intern Host Office Office E-Mail Address Office Phone No.
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Intern Host Office Office E-Mail Address Office Phone No.
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For more information about TLIP, call (713) 313-7370 or go online to
www.houstonhungernet.org/mickey/internship.htm or to
http://www.senate.state.tx.us/75r/Senate/members/dist13/dist13.htm.
Contact information:
Mickey Leland Center for World Hunger and Peace
Texas Southern University
3100 Cleburne
Houston, Texas 77004
TDD: 1-800-735-2989
THE TEXAS SENATE IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER AND DOES
NOT DISCRIMINATE ON THE BASIS OF RACE, COLOR, NATIONAL ORIGIN,
SEX, RELIGION, AGE OR DISABILITY IN EMPLOYMENT OR THE PROVISION
OF SERVICES.
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