When the National Urban League (NUL) calls the nation to action, Houston answers with power and purpose. At the 2025 Empowerment Summit held May 14–16 in the heart of the nation’s capital, the Houston Area Urban League (HAUL) was front and center, representing the Bayou City with unmistakable leadership. President and CEO Judson W. Robinson III and Executive Vice President Eric Goodie joined U.S. Congressman Al Green in amplifying voices for equity, clean energy opportunity, and legislative change that uplifts historically marginalized communities.
The Empowerment Summit, a marquee policy event for the NUL, drew together an extraordinary coalition of Congressional leaders, community organizers, and civic advocates. With panels, policy briefings, and grassroots strategy sessions spanning multiple days, the Summit tackled America’s most urgent issues—economic equity, environmental justice, and the ever-relevant call for civil rights.
Houston's Bold Footprint: HAUL's Impact in D.C.
Representing one of the most active and impactful Urban League affiliates in the country, Judson Robinson and Eric Goodie arrived in Washington not just as attendees—but as frontline leaders in shaping a better future for Black Houstonians. Robinson, a legacy civil rights voice and the face of HAUL's modern expansion, brought his policy expertise to the Summit’s Legislative Policy Conference, while Goodie, a champion for workforce development and economic justice, elevated strategies to build inclusive pathways in clean energy and homeownership.
“Equity is not a favor—it’s a right,” said Robinson during a breakout pan-
Houston Voices Lead at National Urban League’s Empowerment Summit:
HAUL’s Eric Goodie and Judson Robinson Join Congressman Al Green in Washington
By Francis Page Jr. For
el. “And when we talk about empowerment, we’re not just talking about access, we’re talking about ownership—of our future, our economy, and our communities.”
HAUL's commitment to digital inclusion, workforce readiness, and financial equity was evident throughout the summit, especially during conversations that linked federal energy investments to career pipelines for underserved populations.
Clean Energy Jobs: A New Civil Rights Frontier
The Summit’s opening day featured the Energy Jobs Convening, a high-impact event themed “Growing with Clean Energy.” Leaders like Eric Goodie participated in panels emphasizing workforce diversity and climate equity, exploring solutions to close the racial wealth gap by investing in education, skills training, and minority entrepreneurship within the clean energy sector.
Goodie’s message was clear: “Houston is the energy capital of the world—but unless we’re building equity into the energy transition, we’re just trading one exclusion for another.”
His participation underscored HAUL’s role as a key player in local and national clean energy dialogues—ensuring that Houston’s underserved communities are prepared for and included in the 21st-century energy workforce.
Congressman Al Green Stands in Solidarity
Joining the Houston delegation was none other than Congressman Al Green, whose fierce advocacy for civil rights and economic justice has made him a staple at every major social equity summit. His presence reaffirmed the interconnected work of federal policy and community upliftment.
In his rousing remarks, Congressman Green declared, “We do not beg for equality— we legislate for it. The Urban League is not just a movement of the past, but a mandate for the future.”
Green met with HAUL leaders and other Urban League affiliates to emphasize the importance of civic engagement, fair housing legislation, and the expansion of minority-owned businesses through federal support.
A Houston Legacy in Motion
The Houston Area Urban League continues to be a model affiliate in action and advocacy. From registering voters to supporting first-time homeowners, mentoring youth, and bridging the digital divide, HAUL is turning empowerment into daily reality.
As Robinson shared, “The work is never finished—but every policy we help pass, every job we help place, every voice we uplift—that’s progress. And progress is the legacy Houston brings to Washington.”
Learn More and Get Involved
Houston Style Magazine celebrates the achievements of HAUL and Congressman Al Green at the NUL Empowerment Summit and encourages readers to join the movement for a more just and equitable future.
Eric Goodie, Al Green, & Judson Robinson, III
COMMENTARY TRUMP'S ANTI-IMMIGRANT CRUELTY
Our neighbors are living in fear. And that’s what the administration wants. They want people to be scared. So, we’re combatting that by bringing the neighborhood together and saying, ‘you’re not going to frighten us into complicity; you’re not going to frighten us into hiding; we’re one neighborhood, regardless of anyone’s immigration status, and we’re going to stay one neighborhood.’”
That is how Gabe Gonzalez, an organizer in Chicago’s Rogers Park, described how his neighborhood has responded to Trump’s immigration crackdown – both during his first administration and throughout the first months of his current one.
On Martin Luther King Day this year, I gave the keynote at the Rainbow PUSH Coalition’s annual MLK Day breakfast. It was Inauguration Day. The contrast between the hope in that room and the fear outside – especially among Chicago’s immigrant communities – was sharp. Reports had already confirmed that Donald Trump’s new administration would make Chicago “ground zero” for an intense national sweep by US Immigration and Customs Enforcement.
Raids were imminent.
The mass Day One sweep did not materialize quite as advertised by Trump’s border czar Tom Homan. But thousands of people were still swept up across the country that first week of the current Trump administration. The fear these actions are still creating is very real. And for good reason.
Since then, the Trump administration’s deportation campaign has spread. What started in Chicago has become a national scourge. Families are being separated from Denver to Worcester. Parents arrested in front of their children. Kids coming home from school to find their homes ransacked and caregivers gone.
When armed agents grab someone without a warrant, haul them away from their family, and disappear without explana-
By Ben Jealous – National Political Commentator
tion – that is not just cruel. It is lawless. That is why community groups like Gabe Gonzalez’s have set up rapid response teams, legal observers, and know-your-rights trainings. In some cases, their efforts have stopped ICE in its tracks.
The cruelty of these raids is matched only by their chaos. ICE has arrested green card holders. Detained US citizens. Deported people who know the US as their only real home to countries they barely remember – or had fled for safety. All of this is meant to send a message: no one is safe.
The message is loud. And so is the silence that often follows it.
People are afraid to report wage theft or unsafe working conditions. Parents fear school pickups, or taking their kids to church on Sunday. Victims of domestic violence stay silent, worried that asking for help will get them deported. And even documented immigrants live in fear.
This is not security. It is terror. And it is why so-called “sanctuary cities” like
Chicago – and “sanctuary states” like Illinois have put policies in place making it illegal for local law enforcement to participate in immigration crackdowns. Police already face enough trust barriers with many of the communities they work in. That makes their job harder. Being part of Trump’s anti-immigrant terror campaign would in some cases make it virtually impossible.
It also could be about to get even more dangerous. The Republican budget bill moving through Congress would supercharge ICE with $80 billion in new funding. More agents. Fewer guardrails. And a leadership culture that seems more interested in punishment than justice.
And the strategy is broader than immigration. This is a movement that spreads fear, then exploits that fear to divide us – Black from Brown, citizen from immigrant, neighbor from neighbor. But as Gonzales and other organizers in Chicago have shown, solidarity still wins.
This fight is about more than policy. It is about who we are. It is about
BILL
remembering that every person – no matter where they were born – deserves dignity. Deserves due process. Deserves safety.
The poem engraved on the base of the Statue of Liberty reads, “Give me your tired, your poor, Your huddled masses yearning to breathe free.” It makes no mention of any race, religion, or country of origin. It speaks to immigration making our country what it is. Making us stronger. Making us what Frederick Douglass called the most “perfect national illustration of the unity and dignity of the human family that the world has ever seen.”
That is the American Way.
Back in January, at Rainbow PUSH, I said that when a nation is divided, we stop seeing our own reflections in our neighbors. But our neighbors are still there. They are helping care for our kids, growing our food, rebuilding our towns after floods and fires. They are us.
So, all of us must respond as if it were happening to us – because one day, it could be.
That means fighting the cruelty with clarity. Standing shoulder to shoulder with immigrant communities – and sometimes, in front of them. Supporting Congress to pass good bills and reject bad ones that undermine due process.
Organizing non-violently. Voting. Showing up for our neighbors and the rule of law.
And it means calling this what it is – immoral, unjust, and defiantly at odds with the real American Way.
Ben Jealous is the Executive Director of the Sierra Club and a Professor of Practice at the University of Pennsylvania. You can write to Ben Jealous in care of this Newspaper or by website at: www.BenJealous.com
In a climate where history is being redacted and diversity programs are under siege across the country, the cancellation of the beloved Black History Production at Houston’s High School for the Performing and Visual Arts (HSPVA) struck a deep and painful chord in the heart of Houston’s Black arts community. For more than 45 years, this event has not only celebrated culture—it has cultivated it.
It is against this fraught political backdrop—fueled in part by the Trump administration’s open disdain for diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs nationwide—that HSPVA’s decision felt especially hollow. The timing was not lost on anyone. As states like Texas echo national efforts to whitewash Black history, the shuttering of this production sparked rightful outrage, swift mobilization, and impassioned calls for accountability.
A Celebration Cancelled But Not Silenced
What has long been a sanctuary for Black student expression—combining music, dance, poetry, and pride—was abruptly halted, without prior notice or explanation. The fallout was immediate. Students, alumni, parents, and community leaders rallied
PROTECTING THE PULSE OF BLACK CREATIVITY: HSPVA’s
Legacy Faces a Test — And the Community Responds
By Francis Page Jr. For www.StyleMagazine.com
with urgency, demanding transparency and respect.
“This production has never been just a show—it has been a sacred space where Black students have seen themselves reflected, empowered, and affirmed on their own terms,” declared Denise Ward, Founding President of the HSPVA Black Alumni Network (BAN). “To see it disrupted without inclusive dialogue was painful, but the groundswell of response from our community has been powerful.”
And powerful it was. Petitions surged. Phone lines lit up. Emails poured in. The people made their voices heard—loud, clear, and unapologetic.
A Principal's Letter and a
Community’s Demand
In response to the growing firestorm, HSPVA Principal Dr. Priscilla Rivas released a statement on May 14 acknowledging the disappointment and emphasizing a renewed commitment to “equity, collaboration, empowerment, and legacy.” But words, the community asserted, are not enough.
The Demands: Equity, Transparency, Shared Vision
The HSPVA Black Alumni Network laid out a clear, unified platform to protect the production: Transparency: Will the Black History Production return in full? Why was
the decision made without student or parent input?
Equity of Investment: Will the production receive the same financial and institutional support as other major performances?
Shared Decision-Making: Can students, parents, and alumni shape the legacy they created?
Anything less, supporters argue, is a dilution of legacy. Worse, it risks sending a message that Black cultural excellence is only welcome when it’s convenient—or quiet.
The Trump-Era Chill
Let’s not pretend this is happening in a vacuum. The Trump administration may be gone, but its chilling effect on cultural inclusion efforts remains. The former president’s push to eliminate DEI initiatives, restrict how race and gender are taught, and suppress truthful discussions about American history has given license to regressive local policies that embolden these kinds of decisions.
In a county as diverse and dynamic as Fort Bend, it takes a rare kind of public servant to rise above the noise and make justice feel personal. Judge Sonia Rash is exactly that kind of servant—a trailblazer with a gavel in one hand and a heart full of purpose in the other.
Last Thursday, under the warm glow of chandeliers and the aroma of aromatic spices at a beloved Indo-Pak restaurant, Judge Rash officially launched her re-election campaign for Fort Bend County Justice of the Peace, Precinct 3. With a crowd as vibrant and multicultural as the community she serves, Judge Rash took center stage and reminded everyone why she remains a shining beacon of hope, equity, and inclusivity in Texas justice.
First,
But Not the Last
Judge Rash is the first—and still only—South Asian elected Justice of the Peace in Texas, a milestone she carries with humility and pride. The daughter of Pakistani and Indian immigrants, she’s lived the American dream with a Houston twist—graduating from Houston ISD, then attending Our Lady of the Lake University, St. Mary’s University, and earning her law degree from the esteemed Thurgood Marshall School of Law.
"I ran four years ago because I
JUDGE SONIA RASH: Justice Served with a Side of Community Spice
By Burt Levine, Political Editor for www.StyleMagazine.com
love people and I love the law," she said. "JP court is the court that touches lives most directly—it’s in our neighborhoods, in our daily lives."
And touch lives she has. From launching night court sessions for working families to online hearings for those juggling jobs and kids, Rash has made good on her promise to make justice more accessible.
The Community's Courtroom
This isn’t your average judge— we're talking about a community-first, people-powered movement wrapped in judicial robes. Rash's initiatives go far beyond the courtroom: she’s brought internships for high school and college students, free workshops on wills and probate, knowyour-rights seminars, and even citizenship pathway sessions to the people of Fort Bend.
“Our goal is simple,” she told an enthusiastic audience of African American, Latino, Hindu, Muslim, Jewish, Chinese American, and fellow Democratic officials. “We want a court that works for everyone.”
The Judge Who Listens and Leads
Before becoming a judge, Rash served in nearly every role you can think of: small business attorney, nonprofit advocate, volunteer with The Coalition for Justice (where she championed gender equality and equal pay), Girl Scout mom, NAACP VP, LULAC member, and PTA leader. Her resume isn’t just impressive—it’s intentional.
“President Obama taught me that the best education goes beyond classrooms—it's earned in the grassroots,” she said. “Ordinary people can do extraordinary things when they work together.”
Her
Pledge: Justice, Unity, and Grace
With husband Ron by her side and daughters Ronald and McKenzie cheering her on, Judge Rash reaffirmed her commitment to bridge-building justice, faithful service, and civic dignity. She isn’t just a judge—she’s a community architect.
As she continues her journey, Rash’s campaign slogan might as well be: Justice with spice—and a whole lot of heart.
Join the Movement
Follow Judge Sonia Rash’s journey and learn how you can support her mission of inclusive justice:
�� Visit Her Campaign Page �� Follow on Instagram: @JudgeSoniaRash
�� Volunteer and Get Involved: Contact Her Team
Sandra Levine, Judge Sonia Rash with Burt Levine
The stakes are high, the choices are clear, and once again, democracy is calling.
Voters in the city of Pasadena and the San Jacinto College District are being summoned back to the polls as early voting for the Saturday, June 7 Runoff Election begins Tuesday, May 27 and runs through Tuesday, June 3. This is your chance to finish what you started—and to help decide the leadership and vision for one of the most dynamic regions in Harris County.
Why This Runoff Matters
Several races from the May election remain unresolved, as no candidate crossed the 50% threshold necessary to declare victory. The runoff now becomes the final say in pivotal contests that will shape policies, budgets, education priorities, and neighborhood development across:
• City of Pasadena • Mayor
• City of Pasadena • District A
• City of Pasadena • District B
• City of Pasadena • District G
• San Jacinto Community College District • Position 3
“This is an important election for voters who reside in Harris County’s
Your Voice. Your Vote. Your Power : Early Voting For The Saturday, June 7th Runoff Election Begins In Harris County
By Francis Page, Jr., Editor for www.StyleMagazine.com
second-largest city and one of the largest community college districts in Texas,” emphasized Harris County Clerk Teneshia Hudspeth, a dedicated champion of civic participation. “I encourage voters to take advantage of the opportunity to participate in the democratic process.”
Early Voting Hours & Locations
Early voting is designed for your convenience—with eight vote centers open daily from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m., except Sunday, when voting is available from 12 p.m. to 7 p.m. On Election Day, Saturday, June 7,
all vote centers will be open from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. This means no excuses—voters can cast their ballot before or after work, or even during the lunch hour.
What You’ll Need to Vote
To vote in person, you must present one of the following acceptable forms of photo identification:
• Texas Driver’s License
• Texas Personal Identification Card
• Texas Election ID Certificate
• Texas License to Carry a Handgun
• U.S. Military ID (with photo)
• U.S. Citizenship Certificate (with photo)
• U.S. Passport (book or card)
Don’t have one of these? No problem. You can complete a Reasonable Impediment Declaration (RID) and present an alternative form of ID—such as a current utility bill, bank statement, government check, or voter registration certificate.
Every Vote, Every Voice
Clerk Hudspeth reminds all voters, whether you participated in the May election or not: “The runoff is your chance to make an impact on the future of your community.”
Your vote doesn’t just fill in a bubble on a page—it fuels our communities, guides local decision-making, and keeps the wheels of democracy turning.
Stay Informed & Empowered
Visit www.HarrisVotes.com for full details, locations, and updates. You can also follow @HarrisVotes on social media for real-time announcements and civic reminders.
Let’s keep showing up, Houston. The future belongs to those who vote.
In a reaffirmation of its unwavering commitment to emergency care excellence, Harris Health Ben Taub Hospital has once again earned re-verification as a Comprehensive Level I Trauma Center by the Texas Department of State Health Services. This prestigious recognition marks over 30 years of Ben Taub’s elite standing among the top trauma care facilities in the United States.
Serving as one of only two adult Level I trauma centers in Harris County, Ben Taub Hospital remains a cornerstone of Houston’s emergency medical response system—delivering lifesaving, high-acuity care to thousands each year, regardless of background or ability to pay.
“Trauma doesn’t discriminate. It can happen to anyone at any time,” said Dr. Glorimar Medina, CEO of Hospital Campuses, Harris Health. “In those critical moments when every second counts, Ben Taub is always here and ready, equipped, and staffed with some of the nation’s finest trauma experts.”
Innovation and Impact in Every Second
The Level I designation goes beyond emergency room care. It requires 24/7 access to trauma surgeons, neurosurgeons,
HARRIS HEALTH – BEN TAUB HOSPITAL Reaffirmed As Level I Trauma Center: A Lifesaving Legacy for Houston
By Jo-Carolyn Goode, Managing Editor for www.StyleMagazine.com
specialized nursing, and cutting-edge technology capable of responding to complex, often life-threatening injuries. It also mandates leadership in research, prevention, and education, a role Ben Taub has embraced with distinction.
“Being reverified means more than meeting the standard—it means setting the standard,” said Stephen Mora, Trauma Program Director at Ben Taub. “We’re advancing trauma medicine through research, training, and innovation—because lives depend on it.”
Training Tomorrow’s Trauma Leaders
Through its strong partnership with Baylor College of Medicine, Ben Taub is a premier training ground for the next generation of healthcare providers. Medical students, residents, and fellows gain invaluable
experience at a facility that exemplifies the gold standard in trauma care.
Each year, Harris Health expands its outreach by hosting the Circle of Survival Trauma Conference—a regional event uniting emergency care professionals across Texas. The next conference, scheduled for May 21, 2025, will dive into every phase of trauma—from pre-hospital response to post-recovery rehabilitation.
Honoring Resilience:
The Trauma Survivor Celebration
Harris Health doesn’t just treat trauma—it honors the human spirit that overcomes it. On May 30, 2025, the health system will host its annual Trauma Survivor Celebration, recognizing patients who triumphed over devastating injuries. The event serves as a powerful testament to the strength of survivors and the dedication of those who helped them heal.
“Trauma affects entire families, not just individuals,” shared Future Johns, Trauma Program Director at LBJ Hospital. “This celebration helps us reconnect, reflect, and find renewed purpose in the work we do every day.”
A Legacy of Leadership in Trauma Care
First designated as a trauma center in 1994, Ben Taub Hospital was among the first nationwide to receive trauma accreditation from the American College of Surgeons. With a rigorous verification process every three years, this re-verification confirms that Ben Taub continues to meet—and exceed—the highest standards in trauma care today.
As Houston continues to grow and face increasing challenges—ranging from motor vehicle accidents to climate-related emergencies—Ben Taub remains a beacon of hope and healing for the city’s most vulnerable.
Dr. Glorimar Medina
Monday, May 19, 2025 H
Photography By Linda Toyota
Ruth Turley and Reginald DesRoches
Linda Toyota and Stephen Klineberg
Ric Campo and Jeannine Henry
Willie Davis and Jacques D’Rovencourt
Armando Perez – H-E-B
Ruth Turley and Dr. Ruth Simmons
With the grand opening of its newest financial center in Pflugerville,
Frost Bank has proudly marked a milestone 200 branches across Texas, reinforcing its legacy of service, strength, and community stewardship. As the state continues to evolve, Frost’s Texas-sized heart beats even louder — and this latest opening proves that when other banks retreat, Frost expands.
Founded in 1868, Frost Bank has earned its reputation as a trusted financial partner for generations. On May 19, 2025, that legacy deepened with the launch of the Pflugerville Financial Center, the 24th Frost branch in the rapidly growing Austin region — and the symbolic 200th across the Lone Star State. Located at 18725 FM 685, this modern 3,643-square-foot space honors Texas heritage while ushering in a bold, client-forward future.
“Everyone in Frost’s Austin region, whether they are at the expansion locations or have been with our legacy sites, has played a role in this remarkable success,” said Tim Crowley, Austin Region President. “This moment reflects the commitment, resilience, and heart of the Frost family.”
While many banks have scaled back their brick-and-mortar presence, Frost continues to double down — literally. Since
FROST BANK CELEBRATES HISTORIC 200TH LOCATION WITH PFLUGERVILLE EXPANSION: A TEXAS TRADITION GROWS STRONGER
By Francis Page, Jr. for www.StyleMagazine.com
launching its statewide expansion program in 2018, the bank has steadily opened new locations in South Austin, Bastrop, Georgetown, and now Pflugerville, with more to follow. This calculated growth strategy is a testament to Frost’s confidence in the communities it serves and its refusal to let digital convenience replace human connection.
Inside the new Pflugerville branch, the design tells a story. Guests are greeted by a signature Frost welcome station — a friendly space where bankers assist with deposits, withdrawals, loans, and account
services — but the aesthetics offer more than utility. Black-and-white photos of old Texas, historic state maps, and clean architectural lines speak to Frost’s mission: bridging the past and the future for Texans. This is not just a bank; it’s a relationship hub.
Whether you're a small business owner seeking trusted counsel, a young family opening its first savings account, or a newcomer planting roots in Central Texas, Frost offers tailored services that meet you where you are — and help take
you where you’re going.
A Trusted Texas Institution
Frost is the banking, investments, and insurance subsidiary of Cullen/Frost Bankers, Inc. (NYSE: CFR). With $52 billion in assets as of March 2025, Frost is among the 50 largest U.S. banks by asset size. But despite its national clout, Frost has never lost its local focus. From Houston to the Rio Grande Valley, Dallas to San Antonio, and now deeper into Austin’s suburbs, the bank’s signature blend of high-touch service and high-tech innovation continues to resonate.
Coming Soon: Community Celebrations
Stay tuned for a special community event to commemorate this 200th branch milestone in true Texas style. Frost promises a celebration that honors its customers, staff, and the vibrant Pflugerville community. For updates or to explore banking services, visit www.frostbank.com. At 157 years strong, Frost Bank proves that legacy and innovation aren’t opposites — they’re partners. And in Pflugerville, that partnership is just beginning.
Harmony Public Schools Houston Districts Announce 2024-2025 Teachers of the Year
By Lisa Valadez For www.StyleMagazine.com
Harmony Public Schools – Houston has announced its 2024-2025 Teachers of the Year for its Houston-area districts, recognizing four outstanding educators for their dedication and impact in the classroom.
In the Houston South and West Districts, Parul Chawla was named Elementary Teacher of the Year, while Angela Flakes
was honored as Secondary Teacher of the Year. Chawla, a Special Education teacher at Harmony School of Excellence – Sugar Land Elementary, works with K-2 students in the Life Skills program. Her classroom often supports early learners with Autism, helping them transition into the school environment through individualized, compassionate instruction.
Angela Flakes, recognized for her
work at Harmony Science Academy – Katy Middle, teaches 7th grade English Language Arts and Reading. She joined the school in 2022 as a substitute teacher and quickly made an impact by fostering a student-led classroom environment focused on collaboration, discussion, and critical thinking.
In the Houston North District, Brandy McGhee was named Elementary
Teacher of the Year, and Elif Sarioglu received the honor for Secondary. McGhee, a Kindergarten teacher at Harmony Science Academy – Cypress, began her educational career as a teacher’s aide in 2021. Her classroom emphasizes student-centered learning through creativity, curiosity, and interactive engagement.
Elif Sarioglu teaches 8th grade Biomedical Science and Biology at Harmony School of Excellence – Houston Middle. She actively involves her students in STEM education through participation in prestigious competitions such as the State Science and Engineering Fair, International HOSA, and drone challenges.
These educators exemplify Harmony’s mission to provide high-quality, inclusive, and innovative education. Their work continues to inspire students and shape the future of learning across the Harmony network.
To learn more about Harmony Public Schools and their mission to prepare students for college and career success through a high-quality, STEM-focused education, please visit https:// www.harmonytx.org. Harmony’s commitment to academic excellence, character development, and community engagement continues to make a positive impact on students and families across Texas.
Texas Southern University, one of the nation's premier Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs), is reaching new heights—both financially and literally. In an inspiring show of upward momentum, TSU celebrated a major dual victory this May: a long-anticipated credit rating upgrade from Fitch Ratings and the arrival of its first aircraft in a newly acquired training fleet for its Aviation Science Management program.
Fitch Elevates TSU’s Financial Flight Path
In a glowing endorsement of its improving financial health and strategic leadership, Fitch Ratings elevated TSU’s Issuer Default Rating (IDR) and Revenue Financing System (RFS) bonds from ‘BBB+’ to ‘A-’, with a Stable Outlook. The upgrade affects approximately $119 million of outstanding RFS bonds issued by the Texas Public Finance Authority on behalf of the university.
“This significant upgrade is the result of new university leadership and strong efforts by the university community to maintain a commitment to fiscal responsibility,” said John Pittman, TSU’s Interim Chief Financial Officer. “Texas Southern has demonstrated a stronger financial position over the past year, and we’re proud to see that work recognized.”
Texas Southern University Soars Higher: Financial Upgrade and Aviation Fleet Launch Signal Historic Growth
By Francis Page, Jr. for www.StyleMagazine.com
The Fitch report praised TSU’s rebounding enrollment trends since 2021, leading to renewed tuition revenue, positive operating margins, and healthier adjusted cash flow. The agency noted TSU's robust support from the State of Texas and anticipated the university would maintain adjusted cash flow margins of no less than 12%—despite high life-cycle investment needs.
While TSU still faces challenges around student retention and graduation rates, Fitch acknowledged these are being addressed under current leadership. The Stable Outlook affirms the university’s resilience and capacity to manage new debt while maintaining solid leverage ratios. For full details, the official Fitch report is available here.
TSU’s Aviation Program Takes Off: Cirrus SR20 Fleet Lands in
Houston
As if the Fitch upgrade wasn’t enough of a win, TSU’s skyward trajectory continued—literally—at Ellington Airport on Saturday, May 17, 2025. In a proud and historic first, TSU unveiled the inaugural aircraft in a fleet of 12 custom Cirrus SR20 planes, marking a pioneering partnership between Cirrus Aircraft and an HBCU.
“This moment is more than symbolic—it’s transformational,” said Vice Admiral James W. Crawford III, President of TSU. “We are preparing the next generation of Black pilots, engineers, and aviation leaders.”
The Cirrus SR20, known for its cutting-edge technology and safety features, will serve as the cornerstone of TSU’s Aviation Science Management program. The acquisition positions TSU as a competitive force in collegiate aviation, enabling students to train on industry-standard equipment and gain the skills necessary to succeed in aerospace, corporate, and commercial flight paths.
“This partnership with Cirrus Aircraft changes the game,” added Dr. Terence Fontaine, Executive Director of TSU Aviation. “We’re providing access, excellence, and opportunity on a national scale.”
Houston Style Magazine Salutes TSU’s Ascent
As one of the largest HBCUs in the country, Texas Southern University has long been a beacon of hope, excellence, and innovation in Houston’s academic and civic landscape. This financial and aviation double milestone demonstrates the university’s commitment to empowering its students with the resources—and runway—they need to take off.
At Houston Style Magazine, we celebrate this defining chapter in TSU’s legacy, and we’ll be watching the skies for where they go next.
For more information about TSU’s programs, visit: www.tsu.edu For Aviation Science Management details, click here: TSU Aviation Program
The celebration event, held at TSU's Hangar F Flight Office at Ellington Airport, drew students, faculty, aviation professionals, and proud community members—all united by a shared vision: ensuring that TSU students continue to rise.
Photography By Francis Page, Jr.
Commissioner Rodney Ellis
Jason Luong Thuy Lee
Gene Wu Linda Toyota
Deborah Chen
Rodney Ellis and Ron Reynolds
Rodney with Artist – Kim Pham
Campus Chronicles
Fort Bend Independent School District celebrated a stellar performance on the state stage as two of its powerhouse tennis programs made waves at the 2025 UIL 6A State Tennis Championships.
Clements High School’s Gabriel Segubiense and Jastine Escamos clinched the 6A Mixed Doubles state title, delivering a performance marked by skillful coordination, strategic shot-making, and unwavering focus. Their championship run capped off an exceptional season and brought home the
Academic achievement and leadership were proudly on display as Alief Independent School District hosted its National Elementary Honor Society (NEHS) Spring Induction Ceremony, welcoming a new class of young scholars and celebrating the accomplishments of its current members.
This spring, 12 outstanding 3rdgrade students were officially inducted into NEHS, joining a prestigious tradition that recognizes not only academic success but also responsibility, service, and character. The ceremony marked a major milestone for these students, who have demonstrated a strong commitment to their studies and their school communities.
The event also honored the dis-
Klein Independent School District has once again been recognized for its exceptional commitment to music education, earning the Best Communities for Music Education designation from The NAMM Foundation for an impressive 18th time. This marks the 14th consecutive year the district has received this prestigious honor, un-
top honor in their division.
Ridge Point High School’s Hailey Niedzwecki and Sophie Tahtouh also made a strong statement by securing third place in the 6A Girls Doubles bracket. Demonstrating grit and tenacity throughout the tournament, the pair navigated a competitive field to earn their spot on the podium.
These accomplishments highlight the depth of talent and dedication within FBISD’s tennis programs. Both teams exemplified sportsmanship, determination, and a shared commitment to excellence— qualities that reflect the district’s broader values in athletics and beyond.
From the baseline to the net, these athletes showcased what it means to represent FBISD with pride. Their victories on the court serve as an inspiration to peers and future players across the district.
trict’s current 4th-grade NEHS members, applauding their continued excellence and leadership. Their ongoing dedication serves as a model for their younger peers and a reminder of the values that NEHS stands for.
The ceremony was a moment of pride for families, educators, and the entire Alief ISD community. From the newest inductees to the seasoned student leaders, all were celebrated for their achievements and the promise they hold for the future.
With events like this, Alief ISD continues to foster a culture of academic excellence, civic engagement, and student empowerment from an early age. Congratulations to all the NEHS members on their well-earned recognition.
derscoring Klein ISD’s longstanding dedication to the arts.
Now in its 26th year, the Best Communities for Music Education award is presented to school districts that demonstrate outstanding achievement in providing music access and education to all students. Klein ISD stood out through a rigorous application process, which required detailed responses in areas such as program funding, music class participation, graduation requirements, instructional time, facilities, and community music engagement.
It was a moment made for the movies— fighter jets slicing across the skies of the French Riviera, red carpets rolled out like royal scrolls, and the immortal smile of Hollywood’s most daring leading man lighting up the Croisette. Tom Cruise, the living embodiment of blockbuster longevity, made his triumphant return to the Cannes Film Festival this May, igniting flashbulbs and filmgoer passions alike with the world premiere of Mission: Impossible – The Final Reckoning.
Just three years ago, Cannes handed Cruise an honorary Palme d’Or as he soared back into the stratosphere with Top Gun: Maverick, a film that raked in over $1 billion globally and reminded the world that Cruise doesn’t just make movies—he is the movie. Now, in 2025, Cruise is back, but this time, he’s dangling off the edge of cinematic finality. Is this truly the last mission for IMF agent Ethan Hunt? The title suggests it might be, but Cruise—ever the showman—keeps us guessing.
A Red Carpet Mission at Cannes and Beyond
On May 14, Cruise and the full Final Reckoning ensemble—including Hayley Atwell, Simon Pegg, Ving Rhames, Esai Morales, and Angela Bassett—ascended the Palais des Festivals in a celebration of legacy, loyalty, and jaw-dropping stunts.
TOM CRUISE Returns to Cannes and the World Gets One Last MISSION: IMPOSSIBLE – The Final Reckoning
By Francis Page Jr. For www.StyleMagazine.com
An orchestra played Lalo Schifrin’s iconic theme as Cruise flashed his signature grin and reminded us all, “Show me the money.”
Inside the Grand Théâtre Lumière, applause erupted scene after scene. Director Christopher McQuarrie, Cruise’s longtime creative partner, thanked the crowd and praised Cruise’s relentless commitment.
“A lot of my life was imaginative play,” McQuarrie recalled. “I got to grow up and have my own action figure—and he was willing to do just about any crazy thing I could think of.”
Cruise, in turn, celebrated McQuarrie for pushing the envelope and expanding the franchise’s storytelling. While he teased working on "a bunch of other kinds of movies" with the director, no firm goodbye was offered—only the promise of more from two of Hollywood’s most fearless creators.
The Final Reckoning: Is It Truly the End?
From the icy outposts of Svalbard to the stark cliffs of South Africa, The Final
Reckoning is a global tour de force. Picking up where 2023’s Dead Reckoning left off, Ethan Hunt is once again racing against time, this time to destroy an AI super-entity known as “The Entity”—a dangerously plausible villain in our increasingly digital world.
While the film stumbles slightly in its exposition-heavy first act, once the throttle kicks in, it's vintage Cruise— death-defying biplane dives, underwater chases that flirt with nightmare, and tension wound tighter than an IMF wiretap. At nearly three hours, the film’s scale is immense. But the emotional stakes are just as high, with Cruise’s Hunt evolving into a more introspective hero—less infallible, more human.
The question remains: Is this Ethan Hunt’s swan song or just another calculated cliffhanger?
High Stakes, High Hopes
Despite the standing ovation at Cannes, Final Reckoning faces a steep commercial climb. With a reported $400 million budget, Paramount Pictures is betting big—especially following the underperformance of Dead Reckoning – Part One, which grossed $571 million during the summer of "Barbenheimer." But if there’s one thing Hollywood has learned, it’s never to bet against Tom Cruise.
And for those lucky enough to be in New York, the red carpet magic hits American soil on Sunday, May 18, when the U.S. premiere takes over the Lincoln Center’s iconic Fountain Plaza. Expect a star-studded showcase, with Cruise, Atwell, Morales, Offerman, and even The Weeknd gracing the scene.
Mission: Legacy
Whether The Final Reckoning concludes a saga or launches a new chapter remains unclear. What’s certain is this: Tom Cruise has cemented himself as one of the last true action icons—a living legend willing to leap from planes, scale skyscrapers, and carry the weight of an entire franchise on his ever-youthful shoulders.
And if this is indeed the final bow, then what a spectacular exit it is. IN THEATRES EVERYWHERE –MAY 23, 2025
