After weeks of coordinating travel, we eagerly awaited our departure from the El Paso International 
Airport on June 29, 2026, primed for our adventures in Austin! In addition to having Sandy’s work 
on display, we were invited to attend a private ceremony at the governor’s mansion. Being that we 
came from far West Texas, we also took advantage of Trader Joe’s, In-N-Out Burger, the magnificent 
Downtown Austin Library, and everything in between. 
 
The moment we were the most enthusiastic and curious about was the visit to the governor’s mansion, 
though. Directly across the street from the Texas State Capitol Building was the mansion. Concealed 
by a large exterior wall, a guarded entrance, and a canopy of trees, the two-story Greek Revival house 
stood tall. With its strikingly white exterior and 6 Ionic columns hugging the building, it was a stunning 
site to see once we cleared the check point.
 
At the mansion entrance, we were immediately greeted by the smiling faces of TAEA representatives, 
docents, and servers with trays of the notorious Governor’s Mansion Summer Peach Tea Punch. Our 
student, her mother, and the art teacher couldn’t contain their smiles as they marveled at the 16-foot-tall 
ceilings, elegant chandeliers, and the plethora of antiques. Amidst the beautiful furniture and historical 
paintings were the chosen artworks of the 13 honored students.
 
Artists, teachers, and family members were treated to snacks, took plenty of pictures throughout the 
living quarters, and were given private tours of both floors of the house. There were numerous relics 
from past governors who once lived in the residence, dating back to 1856. We even got to lay on Sam 
Houston’s mahogany four-poster bed!

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