Published: October 06, 2007 12:47 am      

Regent: Best facilities possible wanted for SHSU

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.