letting me serve in the Best Job Ever.
When I was 18 years old I drove my 1971 Mustang out of El Paso headed to Austin, 600 miles away, to start college at The University of Texas. All of my earthly possessions fit into the back of that Mustang including my $ 79 stereo set which I bought at Radio Shack. I bought that stereo set with money I earned working construction in the hot desert summer, probably the worst job ever. The last sign you see when you leave the El Paso city limits is a sign that says Hasta La Vista. In Texas border Spanish, Hasta La Vista means until the next time we see each other. It means goodbye but with an expectation that we will see each other again. The sign brought a smile to my face that day with a hope that I would return.
When I left Austin four years later for San Antonio after graduating from The University of Texas, I had another Hasta La Vista moment. When I left San Antonio for west Texas three years later after graduating from St. Mary’ s University Law School, I had an additional Hasta La Vista moment. And, when I left El Paso a second time twenty years later to practice law at Haynes and Boone in Houston, I saw the Hasta La Vista sign again.
I’ ve had numerous Hasta La Vista moments in my life, and today feels like another one. While I may be saying goodbye to the Best Job Ever, I am not saying goodbye to the College. Fulfilling the Mission of the College gives me warmth and a desire to come back for many more years. Each stop along my way has enriched my life, and while I no longer drive the 1971 Mustang or listen to the Radio Shack stereo set, I have the friends and memories I have made along the way. continued on page 25
In This Issue
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A Time for Gratitude and Outreach
From the Foundation
Are You Aware of the Numerous Lives That You Will Change in 2025?
Above and Beyond: Welcome to ACB Class 37
Just Getting Started: The College’ s DEI Mission at Five Years Young
Distinguished Law Student Story Through His Own Eyes
Fun For Fellows: We Need to Hear Your Story!
College Columns Profiles: The Fascinating and Indispensable Jenny Cudahy
Doing the Splits
The Presentation of the 2026 Distinguished Service Award
Photo Highlights ACBF Grantees 2025 Patrons & Sponsors ACBF Donations Upcoming Events
Focus
on Fellows
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