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A'shari gordon

When I first arrived at ¸£Àû¼§ as a first-generation and out-of-state transfer student, I knew I wanted to make the most of every opportunity that came my way. What I didn’t realize then was how transformative my time here would be both academically and personally. ¸£Àû¼§ became more than just a place to earn my degree; it became the community that helped me discover my purpose and my voice. Getting involved was one of the best decisions I made. Through organizations like the Student Government Association, Greek life, and the Bearkat Inclusion Association, I found belonging, leadership, and a sense of family that shaped my confidence and drive. Being part of these communities made all the difference, especially as a first-generation student learning to navigate higher education on my own. I have also been fortunate to work alongside professors and mentors who have deeply influenced my academic and professional goals. Dr. Dennis Weng introduced me to the realm of Taiwanese influence in global politics, inspiring me to participate in the National Model United Nations and later become a Taiwan Research Scholar. His mentorship opened my eyes to how international collaboration can drive change. Dr. Bittick’s courses challenged me to think critically and creatively about political systems, while Dr. Callaway’s courses on international human rights gave me a renewed sense of purpose and helped shape my aspirations for a career in global advocacy.

I am also grateful for Dean Li, who was always willing to meet with me on behalf of the Student Government Association to discuss the needs and experiences of College of Humanities and Social Sciences students. His openness and support reminded me that student voices truly matter and can influence meaningful change on campus. Throughout my journey, I have learned that success is not just about grades or awards; it is about connection, persistence, and growth. From interning with Politic Nation to working for the American Democracy Project in civic engagement, and earning distinctions like the Dean’s List, the College of Humanities and Social Sciences Scholar Award, and the Undergraduate Academic Achievement Scholar Award, I have grown into someone who believes in using education to make a difference. One of my proudest moments was receiving the Sammy Award for Excellence in Service from the College of Humanities and Social Sciences—an honor that affirmed my dedication to leadership, advocacy, and community engagement. As I look ahead to my future, I am committed to pursuing a career in law and international affairs, advocating for equity and justice on a global scale. My advice to new students is simple: get involved, seek mentors, and never underestimate the power of meaningful connections. Sam Houston State has countless opportunities—you just have to be willing to take that first step

alyssa newman

As a proud 2023 graduate of the College of Humanities and Social Sciences at ¸£Àû¼§, I am continually reminded of how my time at ¸£Àû¼§ shaped both my academic and professional journey. I double majored in Philosophy and Political Science with a minor in Spanish, originally planning to attend law school. However, through the mentorship and opportunities I received as an undergraduate, especially my acceptance into the Ronald E. McNair Scholars Program, my path began to shift.

One of the most meaningful parts of my time at ¸£Àû¼§ was sharing the experience with my mom, who was also earning her B.S. in Psychology with a minor in Biology. We were in the same McNair Scholars cohort, supporting each other through research projects, presentations, and graduate school preparation. Today, we are both thriving at the University of Florida. She is pursuing her Ph.D. in Neuroscience, and I am continuing my journey in higher education.

My experience in the McNair Scholars Program, along with serving as an Honors Ambassador for the Elliot T. Bowers Honors College and writing tutor at the Academic Success Center, helped me discover a passion for supporting students in their academic and personal growth. These experiences ultimately led me to pursue a career in higher education rather than law. After graduation, I joined the University of Florida Online as an Admissions Officer, where I have been able to help connect aspiring students with transformational educational opportunities.

I am deeply grateful to my mentors such as my thesis advisor, Dr. Zachary Bachman, who helped me develop independent research skills and connect with other supportive faculty members such as Dr. Jessica Elkayam. I also owe thanks to my graduate mentor, Kayli Carrillo and the director of the Ronald E. McNair Scholars Program, Dr. Lydia Fox, who encouraged my passion for research and inspired my mom and I to continue our studies.

Today, I am pursuing my M.Ed. in Student Personnel in Higher Education at the University of Florida with a projected graduation date of August 2026. The skills, mentorship, and values I gained at ¸£Àû¼§ continue to guide me every day in my work and studies. To any student just starting out, I would say to stay open to where your curiosity leads, because you never know how your experiences may shape your passions and future path.

chris tritico

Christopher Tritico earned his Bachelor of Science Degree in Political Science from ¸£Àû¼§ in 1983. Since then, he has accomplished many things. Today he works as a criminal defense attorney for Tritico & Rainey as well as being an active alumnus in the ¸£Àû¼§ community and serves on the CHSS Advisory Board. This year, he is being honored with the 2024 Distinguished Alumni Award.

“It is a great honor and something that so few alumni are bestowed with,” Mr. Tritico said. “I have spent my life trying to live up to the things my parents taught me; honor, ethics, dignity, and caring for others. Sam’s motto plays right into that and my life as a lawyer.” Mr. Tritico has since shown great interest in representing professional educators. This is shown in his love for the Bearkat community. He strives to keep up the same levels of community as he had back when he was a student. “Sam Houston’s sense of community always struck me as a true selling point for the university. From the day I first walked on campus through to today, 45 years later, that sense of community is still there,” Mr. Tritico said. “We are a family, a Bearkat network, ready to help each other at any time.”

He recognizes that being a student at ¸£Àû¼§ played a major role in where he is today, as he has served on the Alumni Board, President of the Board of Directors, and now also has a seat on the Sam Houston Foundation Board. His time in the political science degree at Sam helped prepare him for every case, every appeal, every client since his graduation. “I studied political science, because I love politics. I knew I was going to law school. Going through the political science department, the great debates we had in class,” Mr. Tritico said. “It was wonderful preparation for a career in law. I learned from Sam how to make an argument without losing my temper. A skill that is absolutely necessary in law.” As he serves on the CHSS Advisory Board, he gets to assist the College of Humanities and Social Sciences in coming up with and implementing new ideas and ways that help keep the college moving forward and keeping present and future students satisfied and focused on their open educational endeavors. In regard to his seat on the Foundation he said, “...we have the best job, we approve of the money coming in!”

Christopher Tritico is proud of his alumni status and his ability to keep serving the ¸£Àû¼§ community. “Never forget the university that did so much for you. The alumni association is only as strong as the active members,” he said. “Our university has one of the best and is the most affordable alumni association in Texas. We can keep it that way by our active dues paying members. A strong and active alumnus makes the university better for all the students.” He aims to keep the school as driven to student success as it was in his time at the university. His continued service is welcome and appreciated by all students, faculty, and staff here at ¸£Àû¼§. The award is well deserved and well earned!