‘Let’s Talk!’ Scholarship Event Scheduled For March 19

Jan. 13, 2015
SHSU Media Contact: Tammy Parrett

Texas Education Agency commissioner of education Michael Williams discusses "Freedom from Testing" with last year's Let's Talk participants.

Sam Houston State University will host its eighth annual “Let’s Talk!” scholarship benefit event on March 19, beginning at 6:30 p.m. in the Lowman Student Center Ballroom.

The event allows guests the opportunity to have dinner and drinks with renowned industry leaders, hear their stories and share ideas with them.

Since the event launched in 2008, Let’s Talk has since generated more than $450,000 to fund scholarships and programs for the Elliott T. Bowers Honors College. It aims to provide a unique opportunity to hear entertaining and inspiring stories from industry experts, according to event coordinator Jacel Angel, director of special programs in SHSU’s Office of University Advancement.

“Let’s Talk allows guests to be active participants in discussing a predetermined topic for their table, facilitated by a notable conversation leader, while enjoying an elegant multi-course dinner and fine wine. This year’s topics will range from healthcare, education, crime, and entertainment to pop culture, politics and innovation,” Angel said.

Speaker Brian Sweany, editor-in-chief at Texas Monthly, engages his table over dinner. —Photos by Brian Blalock

Among this year's discussion leaders are: Wheeler Avenue Baptist Church founding pastor Bill Lawson who worked with the Rev. Martin Luther King Jr.; former National Security Administration code-breaker and SHSU alumna Gayle Fallon; FBI special agent and SHSU alumnus Daniel Fuentes; Texas High-Speed Central Railway president Robert Eckels; traumatic brain injury survivor and SHSU alumna Patti Foster; ironman triathlete Leo Bourgeois; and State Board of Education chairwoman Barbara Cargill.

A list of confirmed speakers and topics is available online at shsu.edu/letstalk.

Guests are encouraged to reserve tickets early to receive priority considerations for their first, second and third choices.

Tickets for the event are $125, a portion of which is tax deductible. Reservations can be made online at shsu.edu/letstalk or by calling 936.294.4061. Sponsorships are also available.

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