Texas LDZ brings 140 students to TLU & State Capitol

One of NHI’s oldest programs, the Texas LDZ, typically culminates in one of the most unforgettable experiences possible for an NHI student — the chance to debate in the House or Senate chambers of the Texas State Capitol. That was the case this year for the Texas Lutheran University-hosted program, now in its fourth decade of this remarkable program, which brought 140 students — hailing from Mexico, the Dominican Republic, and the U.S. — to the heart of Texas.

“For the first time in the history of Texas LDZ, all four top officials were female,” noted Michelle Saenz-Rodriguez, education director for this year’s program, “There was a new found respect by the girls for themselves. They were finally able to empower themselves and trust that they were capable to take on the lead roles.They were up to the challenge and did a wonderful job working through the legislation.”

“When it was time to say goodbye on Sunday, we knew that this group had made a special bond,” she added. “Tears and hugs were abundant among the students as well as the staff, and it became clear that the LDZ magic was present once more. We had a tagline for our program that became the mantra for the week: ‘There’s Texas LDZ and then there’s everything else.'”

The top officers at the Texas LDZ included:

Governor
Mercedes Munoz
Coronado High School
El Paso, Texas

Lt. Governor
Andrea Fernandez
La Joya High School
Palmview, Texas

Speaker of the House
Tahlor Stefek
Somerset High School
Somerset, TX

Chief Justice
Madison Alvarez
Ursuline Academy
Dallas, Texas