82R29135 BPG-D

By: Dukes H.R. No. 2295

R E S O L U T I O N

WHEREAS, The Honorable Ruth Jones McClendon, state representative for District 120, has established the McClendon Legislative Scholars Program at The University of Texas at San Antonio; and

WHEREAS, Since 2004, the McClendon Scholars Program, which is also known as the UTSA Legislative Scholars Program, has provided students with the chance to work full-time at the State Capitol during legislative sessions; Representative McClendon worked with Dr. Richard Gamitta, director of the university's Institute for Law and Public Affairs, to create this program, which allows participants to expand their knowledge and gain firsthand experience in Texas politics and government; and

WHEREAS, Representative McClendon has worked closely with UTSA and many donors to develop this prestigious program, which includes a $10,000 stipend; for the 82nd Legislative Session, she raised sufficient funds to offer this unique opportunity to 10 students, the largest class of scholars to date; by the end of this session, 26 McClendon Scholars will have successfully completed the program, and a number of its alumni have gone on to pursue careers in public service after graduation; and

WHEREAS, By creating this significant initiative, Representative McClendon has enhanced the educational experience of a select group of young Texans, and in so doing, she is helping prepare a future generation of leaders; now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED, That the House of Representatives of the 82nd Texas Legislature hereby commend the Honorable Ruth Jones McClendon for her efforts in establishing and supporting the McClendon Legislative Scholars Program and congratulate her on its success; and, be it further

RESOLVED, That an official copy of this resolution be prepared for Representative McClendon as an expression of high regard by the Texas House of Representatives.