AUSTIN, Texas – On Tuesday, February 21, several College of Agriculture and Human Sciences (CAHS) students, CAHS Dean and Director of Land Grant Programs Gerard D’Souza, Ph.D., and Associate Dean of Academic Affairs, Kwaku Addo, Ph.D., met with several Texas policymakers to learn more about the state’s legislative process and hear first-hand from different Senators about agriculture’s impact on the state, and how the students can influence policy in their ag careers. The college was also honored during a Senate hearing with a resolution recognition, marking the state’s dedication to supporting the college.
The day began with remarks from State Senator Royce West, a Prairie View A&M University alum representing the 23rd District in Dallas. He encouraged the students to get involved in politics and build laterally to get results. “Build coalitions based on interests,” West said. Even if there is conflict, creating a conversation can build hopeful solutions. He detailed how his policies have directly impacted PVAMU and urged the students to get the exposure they need in politics.
The group walked to the Capitol to hear from two different chiefs of staff who laid out how various education committees work and how to approach senators with issues that concern their region. The trip also doubled as an advocacy meeting for D’Souza, who was present in Austin to speak in favor of the “Ag Match,” or PV CARE; D’Souza requests that the state provides the same amount of funding as the federal government does for the college. The students witnessed firsthand how important policy issues make their way to the office of state legislators.
Following the info session, the group was invited to sit in the Senate gallery for a resolution recognition reading for the college, led by Sens. West, Lois Kolkhorst (Brenham, District 13), and Borris L. Miles (Houston, District 13). Kolkhorst spoke about her love for agriculture and Prairie View, and each senator stated their desire to help with PV CARE.
“Waller County has had such a huge impact in, not just Texas, but far-reaching in our nation, and I look forward to working with each of you as we forward not just the college but the entire university,” Kolkhorst said on the Senate floor.
“This is one of the most vibrant student body populations, bustling with school pride, incredible activity, and a powerful alumni association fighting for the students, faculty, and staff,” Miles said. “The College of Agriculture and Human Sciences finds solutions to problems, and some of the solutions are near and dear to my community, such as food deserts.”
D’Souza was pleased with the visit and appreciated the opportunity to help the students learn outside the classroom.
“The added touch of the proclamations on both Senate and House floors – as well as the groundswell of support on the Senate floor for Ag Match/PV CARE, was just spectacular,” D’Souza said. “It was an incredible experience for our students, as they witnessed something unique and historic!”
The trip ended with further exploration and meetings in the Capitol, followed by a dinner with the trip’s hosts. Thank you to Tom Maynard, Texas School Board member, and Waller County Precinct 3 Commissioner Kendric Jones for being instrumental in aiding the group’s visit.
Pascale Mondesir
Communication Specialist II
pamondesir@pvamu.edu
