09/02/2026
What does leadership look like when the campaign is over and the real work begins?
That’s the question our Callejo-Botello Leadership Academy fellows explored during our final seminar: The Realities of Leadership.
A few of the lessons they heard:
• Dallas County Judge Clay Jenkins shared his experiences leading through crises like Ebola and COVID-19 and how influence, partnerships, and persistence can help solve problems bigger than any one office.
• State Representative Ramon Romero reflected on his journey from an unlikely leader to Chair of the Mexican American Legislative Caucus and how lived experience and community knowledge can shape effective public service.
• Former Dallas Mayor Mike Rawlings talked about decisiveness, ex*****on, and what it takes to move people from ideas to action.
• Congressman Joaquín Castro discussed using every lever available to you in public office to solve problems and deliver for the people you represent.
• Dallas ISD Trustee Byron Sanders challenged fellows to think big while developing the discipline necessary to turn ambitious ideas into responsible governance.
• State Representative Cassandra Garcia Hernandez shared lessons on moving from ideas to impact.
• Councilmembers Elizabeth Villafranca and Jeff Casper discussed how staying rooted in the community you serve makes you a stronger and more effective leader.
• Dallas Councilmember Jesse Moreno, Ben Leal, and Bryant Diaz offered lessons on effective governance, meaningful board service, and listening to communities to develop solutions that actually meet their needs.
Leadership isn’t just about winning an election or earning a title. The seat is just the start.
After months of learning, questioning, building relationships, and growing together, our fellows are ready to take these lessons back into their communities.
Now, the real work begins.
And we’re not done sharing their journey. Keep tuning in to our page for a deeper look inside the Leadership Academy, the lessons our fellows are taking with them, and the leaders helping prepare the next generation of public servants.
