The reputation of the Hobby School of Public Affairs as a thriving resource for public affairs education, innovative research and civic engagement is evident in our students and alumni who are active in their communities and workplaces. We turn the spotlight on emerging leaders and professionals making a difference across various industries and sectors.

Mix and Mingle at the 2025 Student and Alumni Mixer, Nov. 10

Hobby School Alumni Association President Leonard Chan enjoys attending the annual student and alumni mixer to reconnect with former classmates, meet current students, network with community partners and strategize with faculty and staff.

"Attending the fall mixer is an opportunity to create and develop genuine connections across the Hobby School community," said the 2009 Master of Public Administration alumnus.

This year's Hobby School Fall Mixer is on Monday, Nov. 10, from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m., at Station 3. Celebrate the school's mission and honor the 2025 Hobby Leadership Award recipients. The annual gathering is a space where attendees connect with peers and mentors and share learning and career experiences.

Certified Public Manager Matt Daeumer has been selected as a member of the newly formed advisory board for the Texas Certified Public Manager Program, a statewide initiative aimed at guiding the program's strategic growth. This body offers high-level advice and recommendations as CPM programs continue to increase enrollment, offerings and expand across Texas.

Daeumer is the assistant city manager of the City of La Porte with a career in local government spanning nearly four decades. From his early days as a certified peace officer to his current leadership role, he exemplifies a lifelong commitment to serving others. The southeast Texas public service leader credits the 14-month-long management training program with sharpening his leadership skills and broadening his perspective on collaborative governance.

"Public service is about making a real, tangible difference in people's lives," said Daeumer. He added, "Local government is the most accessible and effective level of government—it's where service truly meets community."

As one of the first members invited to help shape the board's direction, he will play a foundational role in establishing its structure and operations. His contributions will support the evolving needs of his fellow public sector professionals throughout the Lone Star State.

From the Classroom to City Hall: Agile Government in Action

When Karah Delong walked into the offices at the City of Deer Park, she was eager to apply her classroom knowledge and experience as a former educator to the summer assignment. Under the guidance of the Hobby School’s Peter Koelling and her host city supervisors, Delong learned about local government.

“I often told my former students that experience matters, and in this role, I learned through site visits, sitting in on department director meetings, attending council meetings and grant writing," said Delong, whose background is in chemistry. "I recently learned that the grant application I worked on was awarded, which will help fund an airborne early warning system."

Angela Evans, a national leader in public affairs education, joined Dean Jim Granato and the program administrators, Peter Koelling and Chase Untermeyer, to discuss integrating agile government principles into the curriculum and future workforce needs. Sharon Citino, city manager at the City of Bellaire, shared her experience as a host city and its beneficial outcomes. Citino established a strategy that balanced Master of Public Administration candidate Grayson Golden’s time with his interests and departmental priorities. This fall, Hobby School graduate candidates Sergio Longoria, Alfredo Prieto Pe, Melanie Romero and Nick Weber have assignments with the City of Friendswood, while Joseph Quartey is assigned to the City of Deer Park.

Nominate a Local Leader: 2026 Public Officials of the Year Awards  

David Langenberg was recognized in March at the 2025 Public Officials of the Year Awards luncheon for his solutions-oriented approach at the City of Humble Fire and EMS Department and his commitment to mentorship and professional development. With nearly 30 years in emergency management, Chief Langenberg has led Humble Fire Rescue since 2018, guiding the department through major emergencies. Nominations are being accepted for the 2026 luncheon honoring changemakers who exemplify public service values, ethical decision-making and maintain supportive relationships across jurisdictional boundaries. Since 2011, the Master of Public Administration program, which sponsors the annual ceremony, has honored local elected officials, public servants and practitioners who lay the groundwork for public service in the Houston area. Proceeds benefit student scholarships, making their academic journeys and experiences at the Hobby School a reality.

The deadline for nominations is Friday, Dec. 5, 2025. Applications will be reviewed by a selection committee led by the Hobby School Alumni Association.  

Be a Government Intern

Civic Houston Interns work in government, nonprofit or campaign offices, learning how public service impacts communities. They also work on a volunteer project to gain insight into regional issues and meet public service leaders at classroom meetings throughout the semester. Kadon Miller is interning in state Rep. Armando Walle’s district office. They put him to work right away, meeting with the legislative and district directors and office staff. He has attended a local redistricting meeting, is learning how to resolve constituent concerns and is experiencing firsthand how government impacts communities.

Civic Houston Interns represent a diverse range of majors on campus and contribute to projects and daily operations at host offices. They add a fresh perspective and influence team dynamics and productivity as they build lasting relationships and develop professionally.

Applications are now being accepted for the spring 2026 cohort through Monday, Dec. 8. Led by Program Director Jessica Ruland O’Connor, the Civic Houston Internship Program is open to University of Houston juniors and seniors, as well as post-baccalaureate students.  

Alumni Board Spotlight: Meet Katie Hassett, MPA ‘22

Communications Manager Celeste Zamora talked with Hassett about her board involvement and advice for students:

How long have you been involved with the alumni association, and what inspired you to volunteer?

"I've been involved with the Hobby School Alumni Association since 2020 and was part of the committee that created the MPA Alumni Association. I volunteer because I believe an active alumni organization enhances the value of our program."

What do you most enjoy about serving on the alumni board?

"What I enjoy most about serving on the alumni board is bringing people together to share their experiences and create social connections."

What advice do you have for new alumni?

"My advice for new alumni is to be active and network, even if you feel awkward or self-conscious. The connections you make at alumni events will be invaluable to your career growth."

In addition to Katie, current officers include President Leonard Chan (MPA ‘09), Vice President Ana Silbas (MPP ‘22), Secretary Chaveli Solis (MPA ‘22) and Communications Officer Laura Parker (MPP/MSW ‘19). At large board members include Sydney Hargroder (MPA ’24), Andrea Duhon (MPA ’24), Usman Mahmood (MPA ’23), Scott Mason (MPA ’06), Andrew Deavers (MPA ‘25), Danielle Guevara (BS ’25), Dylan Osborne (MPA ’15), Aylin Rodriguez (MPP ‘22) and Karla Rodriguez (BS ’21). Stay informed about opportunities to engage by following the association on Facebook, Instagram and Linkedin.

Class Notes

Katherine Summerlin (MPA '13) joined the office of Harris County Precinct 1 Commissioner Rodney Ellis as a senior policy advisor. She previously served as a senior staff analyst with the City of Houston’s Public Works, Transportation and Drainage. She’s a two-time alumna of the University of Houston, earning a bachelor’s degree in political science and a graduate degree in public administration, and a former Civic Houston Intern. Summerlin serves on the Hobby School Advisory Board.

Roel Benavides, Jr., chief of staff to state Rep. Charles Cunningham, has been named a Top Legislative Staffer and 2025 Best in Government Affairs. A former Civic Houston Intern and Hobby Fellow, Benavides began his career as a legislative intern through the Hobby Fellows program and rose through the ranks to various roles in the Texas House of Representatives. Known for his integrity, strategic insight and people-first approach, he has earned a reputation as a consensus-builder across key policy areas. Benavides mentors the next generation of public servants and reflects the professionalism that defines Texas’s most respected public servants, as well as the impact of the Hobby School alumni.

Mohammad Nobani, a 2025 Hobby Fellow and former Civic Houston Intern, is studying international and diplomatic studies in Baku, Azerbaijan, as a U.S. Department of State Gilman Scholar. His path—from serving as a CHIP intern in Houston City Council Member Fred Flickinger’s office to interning with state Sen. Paul Bettencourt—reflects a deep commitment to public service and global engagement. Nobani credits the mentorship and opportunities provided by the Hobby School for helping launch his public service journey. His story exemplifies the international reach of Hobby School students.

Rachel Jones, a Master of Public Policy candidate, joined the Federal Reserve Bank of Dallas as a research analyst in the banking and finance group. Passionate about macroeconomics and the intersection of growth, sustainability and citizen welfare, Jones brings a thoughtful, globally informed perspective to her work. Her interests include the economic development of island nations and the role of trade in shaping their futures. Jones is building a career rooted in research, impact and inclusive policymaking.  

Bradley Mushinski (MPP ’23) serves as director of constituent services for Houston City Council Member Mary Nan Huffman and 1st Vice President of the Polish American Chamber of Commerce in Texas. Bradley blends global experience, from Kraków to Beijing, with a deep commitment to local government. His time at the Hobby School equipped him with the analytical and strategic tools to lead effectively and serve his community with purpose. Through his civic leadership and international perspective, Mushinski represents a new generation of public servants strengthening ties between Texas and the global Polish-American community.  

From the Classroom to the Community: Celebrating Student and Alumni Impact

The Hobby School's mission is reflected in the work of its students and alumni, who bring public service, research and civic engagement to their communities and careers. Whether shaping policy, driving innovation or building stronger neighborhoods, we want to hear from past and present students. If you have turned your passion into purpose, landed a dream role or launched a bold initiative, we invite you to share your accomplishments.