Hosted by the Mosbacher Institute for Trade, Economics, and Public Policy at The Bush School of Government and Public Service and the George and Barbara Bush Foundation, this year’s event, “Leading Texas, Serving the Nation: How the Aggie Spirit Shaped a Life of Public Service,” will feature a moderated conversation between Secretary Perry and Alice Yates, CEO of the George and Barbara Bush Foundation.

A 1972 graduate of Texas A&M University, Perry began his public service career in the Texas House of Representatives before serving as lieutenant governor and ultimately becoming Texas’ longest-serving governor, serving from 2000 to 2015. In 2017, he joined President Donald Trump’s Cabinet as the 14th U.S. Secretary of Energy, a position he held until 2019. At the Department of Energy, Perry oversaw the agency responsible for advancing U.S. energy policy, supporting scientific research through the national laboratories, maintaining the nation’s nuclear security, and addressing the environmental legacy of the country’s nuclear weapons program. His tenure coincided with national discussions about domestic energy production and the United States’ role in global energy markets. Drawing on his experience leading one of the nation’s largest energy-producing states and serving in the president’s Cabinet, Perry brings a perspective shaped by both state and federal leadership.

During the November 12^th event, Perry will reflect on the experiences and values that have guided his career, including how his time at Texas A&M helped shape his approach to leadership and public service.

The ConocoPhillips White House Lecture Series is an ongoing partnership between the Mosbacher Institute and the George and Barbara Bush Foundation. The series brings distinguished former and current White House and Executive Branch officials to Texas A&M to share their experiences and provide insight into the offices, responsibilities and challenges involved in serving the nation.

The series has featured a wide range of national leaders, including former U.S. Senator Rob Portman, former U.S. Secretary of Housing and Urban Development Henry Cisneros, former U.S. Trade Representative Robert B. Zoellick, and retired Ambassador John Negroponte.

The 2026 ConocoPhillips White House Lecture will take place at the Annenberg Presidential Conference Center on Thursday, November 12. A public reception will begin at 5:00 p.m., followed by the program at 6:00 p.m. The event is free and open to the public, and a livestream will be available for those unable to attend in person. Registration is required.

Click here to register or email bushschoolmosbacher@tamu.edu for more information.

About the Mosbacher Institute

The Mosbacher Institute for Trade, Economics, and Public Policy is part of The Bush School of Government and Public Service at Texas A&M University. The institute conducts and supports research and educational programs focused on trade, economics and public policy and provides a forum for informed discussion of issues affecting Texas, the United States and the global economy.

About the George and Barbara Bush Foundation

The George & Barbara Bush Foundation advances the values championed by President George H.W. Bush and First Lady Barbara Bush—service, education, and civic engagement—to build a stronger America today and for generations to come.

The post Former Texas Governor Rick Perry to Reflect on Life of Public Service at 2026 ConocoPhillips White House Lecture Series appeared first on The Bush School of Government & Public Service.

The panelists identified five strategic pillars for future cooperation: energy, food security, critical minerals, manufacturing, and demographics. They noted that closer collaboration in these areas could strengthen economic security and bolster North American competitiveness. In particular, the discussion focused on opportunities for joint energy production, investments in advanced manufacturing and data centers, and enhancements to shared infrastructure that will be vital for sustainable regional development.

One central theme of the session was the need to create more resilient regional supply chains. With businesses increasingly aiming to minimize dependence on overseas suppliers, Texas and Mexico are well-positioned to expand domestic production and cross-border investment in industries such as medical devices, chemicals, automotive components, and technology. Panelists emphasized the complementary strengths of the two economies and the potential to build on long-standing commercial relationships to drive regional growth.

Despite these opportunities, panelists cautioned that trade-policy uncertainty continues to pose significant challenges. They expressed concerns about the future of the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), the possibility of new tariffs, and ongoing border inspections delays that disrupt the movement of goods across the border. Ensuring dependable access to water, energy, and efficient transportation infrastructure are essential to supporting future industrial growth. The discussion highlighted the importance of ongoing, coordinated efforts to address these obstacles.

In closing, panelists called for continued cooperation among businesses, policymakers, and universities throughout Texas and Mexico. Despite shifts in the political landscape, the two economies remain closely connected. The path forward, they suggested, will be paved by sustained investment in infrastructure and institutions, continued dialogue, and a shared commitment to advancing regional priorities. By deepening these partnerships, Texas and Mexico can enhance supply chain resilience and secure long-term competitiveness for North America as a whole.

The post Building a Stronger Texas-Mexico Economic Region: A Final Look at the Texas-Mexico Forum appeared first on The Bush School of Government & Public Service.

The first orange hues from the morning’s sunrise were just beginning to peak through the sky, softly illuminating the 2,977 flags in the Bush School courtyard. Each American flag was placed by student volunteers the previous afternoon, who, despite the sweltering temperatures, had worked tirelessly to make sure each of the 2,977 lives lost were represented in time for the event.

The familiar George H.W. The Bush statue stood proudly, as fire trucks and first responders arrived. The large United States flag, hoisted by firetruck ladders above the courtyard, lightly rustled, filling all those lucky enough to witness this golden hour with a sense of overwhelming pride, unity, and somberness for the day ahead.

On Friday September 11, 2026, the Bush School marked the 25th anniversary of the 9/11 terrorist attacks with a commemorative ceremony to honor the day’s 2,977 victims. The morning began with first responders arriving at the flag display at dawn, followed by a speaker program at 9 a.m.. The event ended with a courtyard ceremony, where the Hon. Dean John Sherman led a moment of silence, accompanied by a bugler playing taps.

The Red Bandana

The commemoration was opened through the story of Welles Crowther, also known as “The Man with the Red Bandana”, who lost his life directing people out of the World Trade Center as it collapsed.

“Welles Crowther was an ordinary citizen working in the South Tower when it was attacked,” Lillian Haynes, an International Affairs graduate student, explained. “Crowther wore a red bandana in his back pocket, gifted to him by his father. When the towers began collapsing, he boldly tied his red bandana around his mouth and ushered survivors through stairwells to safety. Following 9/11, survivors couldn’t recall his face, but remembered his red bandana. It became how the world came to know him: the Man in the Red Bandana, who gave his life to serve.”

In the days leading up to the ceremony, Bush School Ambassadors and student volunteers distributed red bandanas in the Allen Building lobby. Participants were invited to sign an oversized red bandana in tribute to his bravery. The Bush School will give to Welles’s mother, Alison Crowther, as both a thank you and a reminder that her son’s brave legacy lives on in a new generation of public servants.

As students walked up to sign the oversized bandana, they were greeted by a series of large signs featuring testimonials from Bush School alumni, who were completing their graduate education when 9/11 occurred. 

“It was beautiful to see so many students approach the booth, collect their bandanas, and take the time to read the alumni testimonials,” Ava Rose, the Chief Bush Ambassador, said. “Each story highlighted a Bush School student who chose to change their career path and answer the call to public service, reminding us of the many ways that the Bush School inspires students to find purpose in serving others.”

Testimonials included recollections of sudden career pivots, nods to President H.W. Bush—commonly nicknamed ‘41’ by many alumni and staff—and an unwavering commitment to public service, in its many forms.

A notable testimonial was by Casey Blackburn ’03 MIA. He described the day as visceral and indelible, recalling how it created a global coalition, fostered new partnerships, and renewed the noble calling of public service for future generations.

“Entering the Bush School weeks earlier had marked a career shift toward public service, but 9/11 clarified the noble calling,” Blackburn said. “For me, public service adopted a greater meaning when I saw its faces—pilots and flight attendants; passengers armed with bare hands and hot water; workers who chose a 10 second fall over a 1,500-degree fire; New Yorkers covered in concrete and ash; Pentagon employees carrying stretchers; civilians, servicemembers, firefighters, and police running in to rush others out—all of these, our neighbors. That day, we didn’t care about the political parties or views of the victims. They were Americans, and that was enough.”

Voices from That Morning

Chief of Staff, Dwight “Woody” Clemons, connected the significance of Crowther’s story to the first-hand accounts audience members were about to hear. He emphasized the program’s focus on ensuring future generations understood the sacrifice and sorrow that painted the attacks 25 years ago.

“Our program maintains a focus on bringing out the stories, the emotions, and the commitment to service that happened on September 11th,” Woody said. “The red bandana serves as a physical representation of these stories, helping a generation of students who were not alive during September 11 connect to those we lost.”

Colonel Mike Reilly, Pentagon Survivor

The first speaker, Col. Mike Reilly, was working in the Pentagon the day of the terrorist attacks. Now a professor at the Bush School, Col. Reilly is a member of the Fighting Texas Aggie Class of 1994 and previously served 29 years in the United States Marine Corps. He completed his military career by serving as the Commanding Officer and Professor of Naval Science for the NROTC unit at Texas A&M. 

The day of the attacks, Reilly evacuated the Pentagon alongside his colleagues, who were told to make their way upstairs to the ground floor to escape the destruction.

“Never forget, that’s what we told each other after that day,” Reilly remarked. “Never forget the sacrifices. Never forget the heroes. Never forget the fallen. Never forget the attacks that led up to 9/11.”

As they made their way up the staircase to the ground floor, they saw workers panicking, freezing, and falling. Despite their own panic and fear, they picked these strangers up and guided them through smoky corridors to safety.

“Eventually, through the haze and through all the people, we arrived at our rally point,” Reilly said. “As we left, I saw one of the most incredible sights I’ve seen in my entire life. Right out there was the Pentagon daycare facility, where staff were evacuating children, from infants up to toddlers. They made their way out to LBJ Park, where they set up an outdoor daycare center. And those incredible workers—those unsung heroes that nobody knows the names of, that nobody wrote any books about—stayed there with those kids all day and read books to them, and tried to show a little bit of humanity in a day filled with chaos and fear and death.”

He then remarked on the aftermath of 9/11, and how he later found himself in the mountains of northern Afghanistan, fighting the Taliban and al-Qaida.

“For some, September 11th was the end,” Reilly said. “For me, and thousands like me, it was just the beginning. When I deployed, I went out with open-ended orders with no return date and a pregnant wife at home. We were starting a war that would set me on a trajectory completely different from the one I had planned, as my adult life would be focused on countering terrorists and terrorism. We fought the war so that the homeland would remain safe. For 25 years, we’ve not endured another attack like this on our soil.”

Dr. Nathan Harness, Tower 2 Survivor

Dr. Nathan Harness, who is now an instructional professor at the Department of Agricultural Economics, was in Tower 2 on the morning of 9/11. At only 22-years-old, and on his third day on the job, Harness found himself inside the World Trade Center when it was hit. He recalled the day, explaining that as the loudspeakers called for an evacuation, he stepped into a stairwell with thousands of other people, into what he called “the unknown”.

“The story I want you to hear today is about a scared 22-year-old kid,” Harness said. “About a kid who wouldn’t be here, who wouldn’t have three kids, who wouldn’t have a beautiful wife if it wasn’t for the sacrifice of many.”

He was on the 44th floor when the second plane hit the tower. He described it as an overwhelming moment: the lights flickered, the drywall cracked, and death seemed imminent. As he fell to the floor, he thought: ‘This is it, I’m going to be a 22-year-old kind of monument. This is the end.’

He emphasized the importance of his story as one of emotional impact, reminding us that the 9/11 attacks are not just history, but a story about human beings—about mothers, fathers, brothers, and sisters—who came together in a stairwell despite their fears.

“This is a story of individual civilians who were together in a stairwell and sacrificed for one another,” Harness said. “Never once did anyone push me. Never once did anyone try to go around me. Everyone, in an orderly fashion, came together. Unity did not require uniformity. If you were a CEO, if you were a financial planner, if you were the person who changed out the garbage can that morning, you were in the same position, dependent on the people in front of you to move the people around you, to pick you up. We found ourselves in a situation where we relied on one another.”

Following this image, he emphasized that life is marked by human value and understanding, and that each person’s actions and choices matter. He said that even though 9/11 was a time of terror and chaos, it was also a time of unity and goodness; a moment when Americans came together.

As a final reminder of the many sacrifices made that day, Harness spoke about the first responders who gave their lives to ensure that he made it to safety.

“As I made my way down, fear was starting to take over, and that’s when I saw the first firefighter,” Harness recalled. “He was coming up the stairwell. He says to me, ‘There’s a way out. You’ll be okay.’ That was the lifeline I needed. Many of those individuals did not make it out of the building. They didn’t even know my name. And yet they gave up their lives. In the midst of destruction. I saw the goodness of people.

“The acts of these heroes allowed me to walk out of the building. I cannot repay these sacrifices, but what I can do is live fully. I can invest in people around me. So if you want to remember, take action. Young adults, remember the sacrifice that your parents and others have made. Take action. Represent that character in your life.”

In the Courtyard

Continuing this tribute to first responders, attendees then gathered in the Bush Courtyard, where the Hon. Dean John Sherman shared his experiences at the White House on 9/11. Delivering his speech on a bullhorn, he drew on memories of President George W. Bush delivering orders on Ground Zero following the attacks. He honored the firefighters, active duty military, veterans, and all first responders who each took up the fight to avenge, remember, and honor those lost during 9/11.

“Today, I urge each of you to take up the call to remember and honor those we lost,” Sherman said. “We are blessed today to see first responders around us, to see firefighters, police, EMTs, and others. They carry on a legacy of men and women who responded on that terrible day 25 years ago; those who ran into the fire, into the buildings.

“Whether it was at the World Trade Center or the Pentagon, they went to the sound of danger. 343 New York firefighters lost their lives. 37 Port Authority police, 23 NYPD, and numerous others from other organizations gave their lives to save their fellow personnel. And on Flight 93, 40 passengers and crew ultimately lost their lives in a field in Shanksville, Pennsylvania.”

Brett Dixon, Assistant Chief of Texas A&M Task Force 1, spoke of the profound impact the event had on his unit, as they brought firefighter trucks to hang a large American flag from their ladders.

“I feel very fortunate to have been able to attend the ceremony and represent the Texas A&M Task Force members who responded to the September 11 World Trade Center attacks,” Dixon said. “ Like most Americans at the time, I remember exactly where I was and what I was doing when the attacks occurred. I was particularly moved by Dr. Nathan Harness’ account of being in Tower 2 when the second plane struck.  Hearing him tell his story rekindled emotions in me that I haven’t experienced in years, which I think was one of the main purposes of this gathering – so we never forget.” 

The Texas A&M Police Department was also in attendance. Officer Charles Durr, who serves as the Public Information Officer and Honor Guard Bugler for Texas A&M PD, had the honor of leading the moment of silence through a rendition of “taps” on the bugle.

“I am the son of 2 Army Officer Veterans,” Durr said. “We lived in Pennsylvania that tragic day within 2.5 hours of the Pentagon and the Shanksville crash site. Being seven, I can clearly remember the fear we felt once on lockdown and my mother trying to explain what was going on when she picked me up from school. That day changed the world, motivated me through desiring a life devoted to public service, and I am honored to have been able to participate in remembering the 2,977 lives lost.”

A Call to be Worthy

Following Sherman’s anecdote, he called students, faculty, community members, and first responders alike to bow their heads in a moment of silence.

Surrounded by thousands of American flags—a physical representation of everything that was lost that day— attendees removed their hats and held tightly to their red bandanas. As the silence stretched, Officer Durr began to play a rendition of taps on his bugle, the notes echoing into the Bush Courtyard and beyond. As the national song of rememberance played, the first Lady of Aggieland, Miss Rev, bowed her head alongside her handlers.

“Days like today are important,” Reilly said, referencing the ceremony. “We need to remember the actions of that day, but we must remain vigilant. We must remain prepared. We must educate our next generation of public servants so that they can protect our homeland, and we can ensure it remains prosperous and secure, that we can be a force for good in this world. And above all, we must never, ever, ever forget.”

Harness echoed the sentiment, recognizing the importance of remembrance as a means of ensuring future generations understand the importance of community, respect, and unity.

“I’ve now lived more years post 9/11 than pre-9/11,” Harness said. “So, Texas A&M, thank you for taking the time to remember. It’s what makes us uniquely human to start a story and to remember, so that we don’t repeat our actions. To make sure we remember the importance of those who sacrificed on our behalf.”

Following the moment of silence, Sherman restated the importance of public service as a noble calling, urging participants to make their own differences in their communities, through their careers or even small actions.

“Be worthy; Be worthy of those individuals who gave their lives,” Sherman said. “Those brave firefighters, those brave police, those brave EMTs, who made the ultimate sacrifice 25 years ago. For those in the aftermath of the attacks, those service members who raised their right hand or were already on active duty. Those workers who were on ground zero after 9/11, who would later lose their lives to cancer and other diseases. Be worthy of their sacrifice.

“As we do everything from serving in the government, nonprofits, city, county, government, we need to be worthy. As we say here at Texas A&M, we’re a force for good, all of us. Remember who they were so we can know who we should be. God bless them all, and remember.”

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The conversation began by discussing the many ways businesses can benefit from the close economic ties between Texas and Mexico. Panelists explored how Mexico’s proximity to the United States helps companies respond quickly to changes in trade policy, including tariffs, while keeping supply chains flexible and resilient. They also considered opportunities to move beyond basic assembly and pursue higher-value manufacturing in Mexico. To support this transition and encourage industrial growth, they proposed strengthening freight corridors, rail links, and port infrastructure to further improve efficiency.

Panelists then pivoted to the rapid expansion of data centers and the pressing question of how to meet their growing power needs. With approximately 300 data centers in Texas and 100 in Mexico, the two regions face a shared challenge: ensuring that power and infrastructure can keep pace with growth. A recurring question was how quickly additional power can be generated. The group explored constraints involving electricity generation, transmission lines, equipment procurement, and permitting, with infrastructure delays creating challenges for new projects. Panelists also discussed how businesses are balancing immediate energy needs with longer-term plans. Natural gas can provide power in the near term, while investments in nuclear energy, solar, wind, and battery storage offer additional options for the future. The exchange highlighted the difficulty of meeting growing demand quickly while also considering reliability, emissions, and long-term energy goals.

The discussion then broadened to the importance of maintaining economic connections across the United States, Mexico, and Canada. They explored how cross-border trade and data mobility allow businesses to serve customers throughout North America more efficiently. For data centers, this integration can reduce the need for individual countries to develop separate capacity and can help make better use of available energy resources.

The session wrapped up with a focus on investment and public policy. Panelists noted that Mexico’s domestic savings could help fund energy and infrastructure projects, but challenges remain in generating public revenue. The country’s large informal economy, where business activity goes unreported to the government, complicates effective tax collection and limits public funding.

Throughout the session, panelists repeatedly emphasized the interdependence of energy, infrastructure, manufacturing, and investment. They explored both the opportunities created by a closely connected North American economy and the practical challenges that could limit its growth. For Texas and Mexico, overcoming these challenges is crucial to strengthening supply chains, attracting new investment, and advancing the region’s economic potential.

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The lunch session of the September 22, 2026, forum, “Security and Prosperity in North America: Advancing Texas-Mexico Commerce and Cooperation,” titled “Energy, Infrastructure, and Economic Impact,” examined energy infrastructure, economic interdependence, and bridging trust between stakeholders in Texas and Mexico. The moderator of the session was Dr. Arnold Vedlitz, Director of the Institute for Science, Technology, & Public Policy (ISTPP) at the Bush School of Government and Public Service at Texas A&M University. He was joined by panelist Andres Rivero, Director of LNG Business Development at Sempra Infrastructure, an energy infrastructure company that conducts business in both the United States and Mexico. Throughout the panel and the Q&A that followed, Vedlitz and Rivero emphasized the importance of cross-border collaboration, investment in reliable energy infrastructure, and stakeholder engagement to strengthen Texas-Mexico energy cooperation and support the growing energy needs of both regions.

Texas has the highest number of entry points for energy trade along the US-Mexico border, highlighting the importance of collaboration and the large economic impact for both regions in energy infrastructure. The session discussed energy generated mostly from natural gas, with Mexico developing thousands of miles of natural-gas pipelines and having approximately 1,500 MW of installed generation capacity and billions of dollars invested. Energy is an important topic in trade and cooperation between the two countries. Texas contains large amounts of oil reserves, while Mexico is investing in refineries that use Texas oil to produce power. Over 60% of Mexico’s power generation relies on natural gas, with the majority supplied by the United States.

The session addressed various infrastructure and policy challenges across the region, exploring ways to strengthen ties between the Texas and Mexican energy sectors as electricity demand grows, particularly due to the expansion of AI data centers. The discussion explored similarities and differences in the two policymaking systems, including how local and federal governments interact in Mexico compared with the United States. Infrastructure development challenges in both countries were examined, highlighting the expensive investment required to make updates and how stakeholders have responded. Existing infrastructure on either side of the border is in need of repair with much of its infrastructure outdated and operating over capacity. With the increased demand for power in both regions, creating reliable energy infrastructure is important for energy security and reliability.

Finally, stakeholder engagement was identified as critical to future investment as companies enter new communities to expand energy infrastructure and create jobs for local residents. Discussions on stakeholder engagement ranged from how to communicate concerns from citizens to engaging policymakers at the federal and national level in both regions. These discussions made sure to highlight the challenges that energy infrastructure, particularly natural gas and oil, has had on opinions in the past and to understand the safety and importance of future investment in it from a security and economic perspective. The session concluded by emphasizing the importance of the need for collaboration and cooperation between Texas and Mexico as energy demand in both regions continues to grow.

Advancing Texas-Mexico Cooperation: Insights from the 2026 Leadership Forum

This article is the third in a series from the Mosbacher Institute highlighting the discussions and key themes explored during the September 22, 2026 Texas-Mexico Forum. Each week, a Bush School student will examine one of the forum’s five sessions, summarizing the ideas, perspectives, and information shared during the panel discussions. When a student author is not available for a particular session, the article will be written by a member of the Mosbacher Institute staff.

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Luevano credits that momentous academic opportunity to his decision almost two years earlier to enroll in the National Security and Intelligence Program at Texas A&M University’s Bush School of Government and Public Service-Washington DC Teaching Site. The knowledge and skills that he gained in the master’s degree program, which melds both academic and experiential knowledge, is now helping Luevano in his role as a U.S. Secret Service special agent.

“I came to Bush School DC to figure out what I wanted to do. The program gave me excellent preparation through providing meaningful experiences and a strong network,” Luevano said. “I also learned how to handle myself around important people and to brief high-level leaders. These are skills I now regularly use, whether through protecting U.S. and foreign leaders or planning security for the 2028 Olympics in Los Angeles.”

A Family of Public Servants

Luevano’s family has historically embraced public service careers, so he didn’t have to look far for role models. In addition to his maternal grandfather, who was a U.S. Marine, and maternal grandmother, who was a postal worker, Luevano proudly points to several immediate family members who continue to serve: his mother, who is a teacher; his father, who is a federal government employee; and his brother, who serves in the military. “I have this public service-minded, patriotic family,” Luevano said. “And I always knew I wanted to do something to live up to that standard.”

The chance to pursue that dream came sooner than he expected after Luevano leveraged the COVID-19 pandemic quarantine to complete all of his required college general electives as well as high school. That dedication and effort put him ahead of his peers and set him apart when he started considering undergraduate programs.

In 2021 Luevano enrolled in Arizona State University, where he completed the remaining requirements to earn a bachelor’s degree in public policy over a two-year period. One of the highlights of his time at ASU was a three-week counterterrorism program in Israel, which sparked his interest in national security.

As he entered his senior year of college, Luevano, who hadn’t turned 20 yet, started considering his options. He was still too young to be considered for a federal law enforcement position, which required applicants to be at least 21. Luevano also realized that national security spanned numerous areas, and he needed to narrow his options. That led him to decide to pursue a master’s degree.

A Capitol Idea

With that decision made, Luevano began researching graduate programs in public policy with an emphasis on those close to the Washington, D.C. area. “If you want to work for the government, all roads lead to D. C., so I realized that going to graduate school there would help me build connections and get the lay of the land,” he said.

As he focused on completing his undergraduate degree, Luevano turned to his father for research assistance. “My dad was looking at different master’s degree programs in national security intelligence and international affairs,” Luevano said. “He came across Texas A&M, who he’d seen play college football on Saturday – and that’s when we found out that Texas A&M had the Bush School, which had the D.C. campus.”

Luevano began applying to several graduate programs and received a fast response from the Bush School and a Virginia university that offered him significant financial assistance. He arranged to visit both schools on the same day, starting with the Virginia university in the morning.

By that afternoon, Luevano made a clear decision.  “In my first 10 minutes at the Bush School, I was already sold just by the people that I talked to because the overall atmosphere was completely different,” he said, pointing to the small class size, the opportunities, and the site’s location in downtown D.C. “When I started at the Bush School, there were about 50 people in the program, so everyone knew everyone. That allowed for really individualized learning where I knew I could ask the questions that I wanted to ask and learn what I’m going to need for my career.”

On the Mark

Luevano also didn’t take long to identify his career direction, thanks to his first Bush School course, National Security Investigation. The course was designed as a simulation in which students acted as investigative agents for the Bush Bureau of Investigation. The course instructor, Bush School’s National Security and Intelligence Program Director Gary Ross (now retired), infused the course assignments and conversations with his own experiences working at the Naval Criminal Investigative Service (NCIS), the Office of the Director of National Intelligence, and the U.S. Department of Homeland Security.

That course proved to be a revelation. “ I wouldn’t have been able to take a class that simulated a national security investigation anywhere else,” Luevano said. “I remember listening to Professor Ross talk about his career and what we were going to be doing in this class. You could tell the passion that Professor Ross had for what he did, and his passion got to me in that first class. I remember texting my dad after that class saying, ‘I know what I want to be!’”

The range and depth of the Bush School’s National Security and Intelligence coursework continued to interest, engage and challenge Luevano. “National security is very broad, so you’re not limited to security or terrorism. You can tailor classes to your interest beyond the core classes, so you can get more out of your education dollars,” he said, noting that some of the courses that the Bush School offers address issues such as foreign intelligence, Arctic security, national security law, and artificial intelligence and disinformation.

Attending Bush School DC offered another benefit: a strong network of classmates who already were established in their careers. “One of my friends in the program was in the invasion of Iraq, which happened before I was even born. But here we were, taking the same class, working off of each other’s ideas,” he said. “That showed me that there’s a lot to learn about intelligence and national security. We have different life backgrounds and experiences, but these qualities play a role in learning, especially for intelligence.”

Another highlight of the program was the required capstone course, which was taught by Ross. “The real icing on the cake was going to the U.S. Capitol to present our capstone project,” Luevano said. “This is like the craziest thing ever because you grow up seeing the Capitol, whether it’s during an inauguration or knowing someone working in the building. But just for that day, I got to go to the Capitol and present those findings I’ve been working on all semester to the Senate Sergeant at Arms”

In a synchronistic moment, Luevano was with Ross at the end of his last semester when he received the Secret Service’s call with a job offer.  Now Luevano is keeping both his own family’s commitment to public service as well as his professor’s influence in the forefront of his mind as he embarks on his career.  

He also feels a strong sense of appreciation for the opportunity to serve his country.  “My paternal grandmother immigrated from Cuba when she was 19. She always told me how lucky I was to grow up in America because I didn’t have to face the challenges that she had,” Luevano said. “Following in my family’s footsteps, I came to Bush School DC to earn a master’s degree in our nation’s capital so I could better serve our country. I thought of my paternal grandmother on my daily commute, which went past the Washington Monument, and while at school, which is only two blocks from the White House. Those exceptional opportunities offered me a chance to be part of the American dream that my grandmother spoke of.”

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During the second session of the Texas-Mexico Forum on September 22, Director of the Center for North American Studies, Professor Luis Ribera, moderated a panel discussion between John Bode, BJ McElroy, and David Salazar Cavazos. The focus of the session was trade between North America and Mexico and how the two countries could continue to grow closer together. The three panel members brought unique perspectives, with backgrounds ranging from politics to ranching. The central point of discussion for this panel was NAFTA (North American Free Trade Agreement) and its continuation through USMCA (United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement). These agreements have improved trade between North American countries and continue to support the U.S. economy.

The panelists brought with them a wide range of expertise. John Bode is the president and CEO of the Corn Refiners Association and also served in the U.S. Department of Agriculture. He has extensive experience in agricultural policy making. BJ McElroy is the COO of 44 Farms, a historic Black Angus cattle farm, and is an Aggie, class of 2005. 44 Farms sells 2,000 Angus bulls a year and has about 1,200 ranchers across 38 states. Their business is vertically integrated, allowing them to work throughout the beef supply chain. David Salazar Cavazos is General Counsel for Gruma, the global food manufacturer behind the Mission Foods brand, the world-leading producer of corn and flour tortillas, flatbreads, and other Mexican products. Through NAFTA, Gruma has expanded into America, providing jobs and more affordable products to the American people. The company now has 27 plants in the United States, demonstrating how trade has allowed businesses to expand across the border.

During the session, the panelists discussed the growth of U.S.-Mexico trade agreements under NAFTA and USMCA. Each panelist agreed that NAFTA has benefited the U.S. significantly. Since the agreement was put into effect, U.S. agricultural exports have risen from $52.2 billion in 1994 to $171.5 billion in 2025. Imports also increased, rising from $28.8 billion to $213 billion. Mexico is the United States’ leading agricultural trading partner, and the American people have benefited from the close relationship between these two countries. As trade has expanded, so has food access, which subsequently has reduced the average American household’s food costs by about $700 annually. Trade growth has also supported jobs and investment across North America.

One reason the panelists believe this trade relationship has been successful is the complementary nature of the two countries’ agricultural industries. The United States has been particularly successful in producing grains and livestock, while Mexico has become an important producer of fresh fruits and vegetables. This allows both countries to focus on areas where they are more productive while giving consumers greater access to food throughout the year. This increased access has also contributed to greater food security across North America.

When discussing the stability of the system, the panelists discussed the need for predictable market access, infrastructure, and investment. Recent border closures caused by the New World screwworm have significantly disrupted cattle moving from Mexico to the United States. About 1.1 to 1.2 million head of cattle were affected by the closure. Panelists emphasized the need for investment in farms and ranches in the United States so they would be able to rebuild their herds despite disruptions in the market. Rebuilding cattle herds can take two to three years, making stable and predictable policies important for producers who are investing long-term. Panelists identified protectionism, country-of-origin labeling, seasonal trade restrictions, labor shortages, animal-disease risks, and inadequate border infrastructure as threats to trade resilience. They emphasized that border crossings should be connecting points, not chokeholds, and stakeholders should work together to improve the system to prevent future supply-chain disruptions. The discussion also stressed the importance of moving from reacting together to preparing together for future disruptions.

Moving forward with USMCA, the panelists supported the stable implementation of the agreement. They described how the U.S. and Mexico have handled conflicts through the agreement’s existing mechanisms but also discussed areas where the agreement could be strengthened. They highlighted the work of university researchers in fields such as genetics, precision agriculture, automation, and artificial intelligence. They also noted that updates to the requirements for professional visas could support skilled employee exchanges between Mexican and U.S. companies. Overall, the panelists emphasized that continued cooperation between governments, universities, businesses, and agricultural producers will be important for maintaining food security and strengthening trade throughout North America. The discussion also reflected the larger purpose of the forum: bringing together experienced leaders from different fields to have meaningful conversations about issues that affect North America and its future.

The post Growing Closer: The Potential of Agricultural Trade and Food Security appeared first on The Bush School of Government & Public Service.

Edited and revised by Lesley Walton

The first session of the September 22, 2026, forum, “Security and Prosperity in North America: Advancing Texas-Mexico Commerce and Cooperation,” examined the strategic importance of the Texas-Mexico relationship to the sustained economic growth of both regions. The discussion centered on the role of water resources, trade infrastructure, financing, and academic institutions in fostering mutually beneficial economic ties. This session was moderated by Larry Rubin, a Mexican American businessman and President of the American Society of Mexico. Rubin is a key leader in U.S.-Mexico relations, holding leadership roles in multiple U.S. companies and organizations. He was accompanied by three panelists: John Beckham, Managing Director of the North American Development Bank; Alberto Gomez Alcala, Head of Institutional Affairs at Banamex–Citigroup Financial Group; and Rabi Mohtar, a Professor of Biological & Agricultural Engineering and Civil & Environmental Engineering and a Senior Advisor for Resource Nexus at Texas A&M Energy Institute.

Discussion focused on the evolution of Mexico’s trade from its agricultural foundations into a diversified, high-volume trade partnership with Texas. The panelists highlighted that Texas and Mexico historically developed strong agricultural economies that established the foundation for their current trade relationship. Continued cross-border commerce has supported broader economic development, including Mexico’s transition from a primarily agricultural economy to a major manufacturing center and an emerging global leader in electronics manufacturing. Gomez Alcala brought his expertise on Mexico’s position as a leading U.S. trade partner as the region and the world move deeper into electronics, artificial intelligence, and data centers. Since Texas shares 1,200 miles of border with four Mexican states, its geographic position makes Texas a critical component of the bilateral supply chain, manufacturing network, and trade infrastructure. In fact, Texas accounts for approximately $300 billion of total U.S.-Mexico trade. This strong relationship between Texas and Mexico has helped foster an environment that supports continued economic growth and prosperity in both regions.

The session also focused on the similarities between the two regions and the mutual benefits of advancing water efficiency and trade infrastructure financing. Beckham provided insight into the financing of trade infrastructure along the U.S.-Mexico border, while Mohtar grounded the conversation in the shared challenges facing both countries related to water availability and conservation. Overall, the panelists emphasized the need for stronger leadership in the border region. Texas and Mexico’s border states have an opportunity to insulate cross-border relationships from political tensions in Washington, D.C. and Mexico City while strengthening trust, water conservation efforts, and supply chain infrastructure. Meaningful conversations among federal, state, and local governments, supported by academic analysis, are key to strengthening the Texas-Mexico economic relationship.

The Mosbacher Institute held this event in an effort to advance conversations and cooperation in the Texas-Mexico relationship. This first session helped set the stage for the rest of the event by integrating public, private, and academic voices into the discussion. The panelists’ knowledge represented a deep understanding of where this trade relationship began, its current state, and how future-focused development can bring prosperity and solutions to both regions.

Advancing Texas-Mexico Cooperation: Insights from the 2026 Leadership Forum

This article is the first in a series from the Mosbacher Institute highlighting the discussions and key themes explored during the September 22, 2026, Texas-Mexico Forum. Each week, a Bush School student will examine one of the forum’s five sessions, summarizing the ideas, perspectives, and information shared during the panel discussions. When a student author is not available for a particular session, the article will be written by a member of the Mosbacher Institute staff.

The post Celebrating the Success of the Texas-Mexico Relationship appeared first on The Bush School of Government & Public Service.

COLLEGE STATION, TX (September 30, 2026) – A new Mosbacher Institute research study by recent Bush School of Government & Public Service graduate Emma Grace Thomas examines the rapid expansion of dual-credit enrollment in Texas before and after the implementation of House Bill 8 and the Building a Talent Strong Texas plan. Thomas was the 2026 recipient of the Texas Lyceum Fellowship, and she presented her findings at the Texas Lyceum’s annual event last week. Her analysis finds that dual-credit enrollment grew from 152,569 students in 2016 to 249,328 in 2024, a 63% increase, with more than half of the total growth occurring between 2022 and 2024. Growth was particularly pronounced at public community and technical colleges, and enrollment increased across every racial and ethnic group examined.

Thomas’ research highlights the growing role of dual credit in connecting Texas high school students with postsecondary education and workforce opportunities. While the study cannot establish that HB 8 or the Building a Talent Strong Texas plan caused the enrollment growth, the findings provide an early look at how dual-credit participation is changing in Texas under the new policy environment. The study recommends sustained and predictable funding, stronger coordination between high schools and colleges, and intentional pathways that connect dual-credit coursework to credentials and high-demand career fields. As Thomas begins her career following her graduation from the Bush School, her research offers timely insight into how Texas can build on the rapid expansion of dual-credit opportunities to better connect students with college and career pathways.

The Takeaway is a publication of the Mosbacher Institute for Trade, Economics, and Public Policy at the Bush School of Government & Public Service at Texas A&M University.

The post Assessing the Landscape of Dual Credit Enrollment – Before and After House Bill 8 and Building a Talent Strong Texas appeared first on The Bush School of Government & Public Service.